Pillager at Ottertail Central
7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 15

Pillager is off to a great start after reaching the Class 2A tournament last year -- it's first trip to state since 2002 (Class 1A). Can the Huskies (2-0, 1-0) make a return trip? They may have a better understanding of their chances in the next two weeks, as No. 4 Pillager faces its toughest tests of season, beginning with a matchup against powerhouse Ottertail Central this week.

The Bulldogs have won 37 games in the past four seasons but lost to Pillager 29-6 in last year's Class 2A, Section 6 final. Ottertail Central has move to Class 1A, meaning Friday's regular-season showdown in Midwest Blue subdistrict action is the only chance the Bulldogs have this year to avenge the defeat.

Ottertail Central quarterback Nick Van Erp led the Bulldogs to a 35-6 win over Wadena-Deer Creek a week ago with 66 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Pillager senior running back Eli Horn had 62 yards and a touchdown on the ground in a 40-6 win over Long Prairie-Grey Eagle in Week 2.