Coming up in Hays County football for Aug. 31

When: Friday, Aug. 31 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Tiger Stadium

Last meeting (2017): Dripping Springs 40, Tivy 7

Dripping Springs won't have to wait long to get its first big test of the season. Rolling into Tiger Stadium Friday is a Tivy program slated to be the frontrunner in 14-5A, Division II and possibly a potent playoff contender. Tivy will be guided by an offense that brings back nearly half of its starters from last year's deep playoff run. That includes dual-threat senior quarterback Karson Valverde, who last year threw for over 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns, as well as wide receivers Trapper Pannell and Josh Vela. It could be a tall task for a Dripping Springs defense that will have several players make their first varsity start Friday. However, Dripping Springs will counter with an equally potent offense that returns several key elements, including running back Jake Cox and wide receiver Parker Alford. High expectations for both programs could make this battle of former district foes one to keep an eye on.