Moorhead vs. Elk River
7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 31

From a winless record in 2010 to an undefeated mark and a Class 5A state title last year, Elk River's rise has been remarkable. And the Elks don't seem ready to slow their winning ways, especially in their season opener on Thursday against a Moorhead squad set on finding success.

The Spuds reached the Class 5A state semifinals two years ago, but couldn't replicate the run last season, finishing with a .500 record.

Moorhead's task is made more difficult with a road game against a team touting a potent rushing attack opponents struggled to stop. Elk River was so efficient on the ground last year, it attempted a mere 27 total passes while amassing 645 rushing attempts and averaging 44.9 points per game.