Hermantown vs. Moose Lake-Willow River
7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31

Moose Lake-Willow River experienced a down year after going 4-5 and breaking its streak of 10 consecutive Class 2A state tournament appearances last season. The Rebels, who placed second at state three times during their run, begin anew Thursday in a non-district, non-section rivalry game with a Hermantown team also looking to gain some footing.

The Hawks finished 5-4 last season, a year after going 10-1 and reaching the Class 4A state quarterfinals. They finished 8-2 in both of the previous seasons.

These teams split their last four meetings, with Moose Lake-Willow River winning last season's matchup 37-24.