NEW ULM — The Minnesota Valley Lutheran Chargers football team will open the season with a tough test as they host the Minneota Vikings at 4 p.m. Thursday at Johnson Field.

The Vikings are winners of three consecutive state championships in Class A.

The game will also have Hy-Vee sponsoring a tailgate party starting 3:15 p.m. through halftime. A hamburger or brat meal will cost $9, which includes a brat or burger, chips, a cookie and a beverage. Items may also be purchased la carte.