Mountain View at Meridian

Mountain View is considered one of the favorites to win the 5A Southern Idaho Conference’s regular-season title, but the Mavericks shouldn’t overlook Meridian, which landed in the sixth spot in the poll. The Warriors qualified for the state playoffs in 2011 and fine-tuned their triple-option offense during the offseason. Although it is the season opener for both teams, this game could have playoff implications.

Vallivue at Boise (Dona Larsen Park)

Boise picked up its first season-opening victory since 2005 by beating Borah last week. This is the season opener for Vallivue, which beat the Braves 44-26 in 2011. It could end up being another high-scoring game, as Boise dropped 38 points last week and Vallivue ranked fifth in the 5A SIC in points per game last season at 28.5.

Borah at Centennial

Borah took a while to find its offensive rhythm last week, but eventually found a successful connection between quarterback Cole Skinner and receiver Kion Williams, who hooked up for two long touchdown passes. The Lions will need to tap into that success from the start against Centennial, which is hosting its first game of the season at historically tough Patriots Field.

Capital at Eagle

Capital was picked to finish first in the 5A SIC preseason coaches’ poll, and that hype will be tested against the Mustangs, who finished second at state a year ago and already have one win under their belts against 2011 playoff team Lake City. Eagle quarterback J.T. Williams was successful using his arm and legs against Lake City, but the Mustangs may need a bigger game from their defense against Capital. The Eagles return the majority of their skill players from last season, including QB Makena Simis — a Montana commit — and RB TJ Clarke.

Timberline at Rocky Mountain

Experienced returning quarterbacks set the tone for this matchup, as Rocky QB Riley Bradshaw passed for nearly 1,500 yards and 14 touchdowns last season, while Timberline QB Grant Hruby connected on 72 percent of his passes for more than 1,000 yards and nine TDs. With solid offenses to lean on, defensive success may determine the game’s outcome.

Payette at Melba

Both of these teams won openers last week. Payette took a balanced approach in a 27-13 win over New Plymouth, while Melba relied on its ground game to edge Wendell 6-0. Melba, a 2A school, will need another quick start if it hopes to hang with 3A Payette. The Pirates beat the Mustangs 28-14 in 2011.

Rachel Roberts: 377-6422