The Austin football team will face a tough test when No. 3 ranked Mankato West comes to Art Hass this field for the Packers’ home opener this Friday at 7 p.m.

The Packers are hoping to generate more of a pass rush than they did against Red Wing, when the team recorded zero sacks.

“We didn’t do a good job of getting off blocks last week,” Austin head coach Brett Vesel said. “Anybody can get open if you have all day to throw.”

Mankato West (1-0 overall) had no trouble passing the ball in week one as Ryan Schlichte completed 13-of-22 attempts for 236 yards and two scores as the Scarlets opened the season with a 35-0 win over New Prague.

The Scarlets also dominated with their defense as they shutout the Trojans.

“They’re really good all around and we’ll have to come and play,” Vesel said.

Austin lost its starting running back Corey Hepler to an injury early in last week’s game and the team may be looking to someone else again this week as Hepler recovers.

Freshman Nate Conner led the Packers with 43 rushing yards on eight carries last week, but some other players may be carrying the ball this week as well for Austin.

“Nate looked good on Friday night, but we’ve got several backs who could come in and play for us,” Vesel said.