1. Poplar Bluff (1-0) … Rallied with four TDs in the second half to win at Class 3 New Madrid County County Central. Chalk up the first half to opening-game jitters, perhaps?

2. Jackson (0-1) … After a perfect regular season last year, the Indians have a challenging schedule this year, and speedy Riverview Gardens upended Jackson 32-31 on Friday. Another big matchup this week at Parkway South.

3. New Madrid County Central (0-1) … One brilliant half of football in posting a 16-0 lead and bottling up Poplar Bluff, but the Eagles hurt themselves with turnovers in the second half.

4. Hayti (1-0) … The Indians open with a win against East Prairie and will be the team to beat in the SEMO South.

5. Dexter (0-1) … Tough trip to state-ranked Ste. Genevieve to open the season, but the Bearcats were unable to keep it as close as last year's contest.

Honorable mention

Kennett (1-0) … Opening win at Charleston featured 174 yards receiving for Jarvis Finley and 300-plus yards of offense for quarterback Blake Parr.

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Preseason ratings