By David La Vaque

Heading out to see Andover play at Centennial. Both teams are 2-0, a distinction that might mean more to the host Cougars. Since joining the Northwest Suburban Conference in 2004, they have not started a season 2-0. In addition, they upset Blaine last week and do not have NWSC power Champlin Park on the schedule. So a victory tonight puts the Cougars on track for a conference title.

Centennial's two conference victories already match their output in 2007 and 2008.

Like Centennial, Andover joined the NWSC in 2004. The Huskies failed to go .500 or better in the conference for the first time last season. They have started 2-0 on two other occasions.

Both teams have qualified for the Class 5A state tournament since joining the NWSC. Centennial went in 2004 despite a 3-5 conference mark, and Andover went in 2007.

Andover holds a 2-1 series edge. I saw these two teams play head-to-head in 2005 when Centennial used a late touchdown to escape with a victory. Should be interesting to see who emerges 3-0 after tonight.