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It wasn't exactly "Perfect Football Weather" but it was opening night in North Dakota high school football and the humidity didn't stop the 9-man teams from suiting up and getting the season started. Many North Dakota fans didn't agree with me putting LaMoure-Litchfield-Marion at number one in my power rankings. But they looked strong with a 68-14 win over Strasburg-Zeeland. They unleashed Tyler and Brady Thielges as they spread the ball around by passing and running. LaMoure's first year in 9-man could be a good one.

Other teams I had in my top 5 fared well too. Napolean/Gackle-Streeter rode Jonah Schwartzenberger's 13-16 passing performance to a 30-8 win over Sargent Central. Wyndmere/Lidgerwood began defense of their title with a 42-14 win over South Border. Jeff Illies set the standard with 4 catches for 239 yards and four touchdowns. Adam Bell threw for 311 yards and five TDs. Watch out for the Warbirds air attack this year. Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood earned their spot in my power rankings with a 74-14 drubbing of K-B-B. Anthony Scherr ran just four times for 92 yards and a score. They spread the ball between multiple rushers and had no problem in their first game. The one team to watch was Hillsboro who sat just outside my top five. They took it to Thompson early. Junior Dylan Bowen got the scoring started with a 63 yard run and quarterback Brandon Otto had a great game as well.

For scores and top performers last night click here. Remember to look for our weekly high school football TV Show "Varsity Sports Now" debuts on Thursday September 8th at 7pm CDT.

Remember you can follow me on twitter with the latest updates on North Dakota and South Dakota high school football this weekend. @AnderaMidcoSN or email me jason.andera@midcosn.com