The playbook: Week 4 games to keep an eye on

This week's slate features two longstanding rivalries that might be in their final chapter with realignment looming in 2016, plus one upstart looks to keep the momentum churning following last week's huge win.

Homestead at Germantown. The ages-old rivalry could be facing its final chapter, with realignment taking Germantown to the Greater Metro next year. For years, this has been one of the highlights in the North Shore season, and former Homestead player Jake Davis will get one last swing at his former mentor, Dave Keel. Follow Steven L. Tietz for updates and check out his great breakdown of the Homestead-Germantown rivalry, including his favorite 10 games:

Oconomowoc at Watertown. Speaking of rivalries that might be facing the final installment, the Raccoons have been posting some zany offensive numbers while yielding big point totals o defense, as well. In the final year of the Wisconsin Little Ten, it could also be a battle between the two top candidates for the title. Follow Evan Frank for updates. Kevin Wilson of the Watertown Daily-Times answered five questions about Watertown in preview of the matchup:

Muskego at Mukwonago. The Classic 8 began with an absolute bang when Muskego lost a close call against Waukesha West on the final play (and Waukesha North eventually defeated Arrowhead). Playoff position has never been more uncertain, and a game like this is a big one. Follow Andrew Gruman for updates.

Arrowhead at Waukesha West. This game is always meaningful, but it received a huge uptick in value when Arrowhead lost in the opening week of the conference season to Waukesha North. The Warhawks now need every win they can get – and though it’s way too early to start wondering about playoff eligibility, it’s a back-burner concern. Follow Chuck Delsman for updates.

Kettle Moraine at Waukesha North. It’s a new world for the Northstars, who return home after shocking Arrowhead on Sept. 2. Expect a galvanized crowd against Kettle Moraine, a team that’s posted some encouraging signs as another upstart Classic 8 program. This is a very important game for North as it looks to preserve momentum and win one of the “must haves” in the now-realistic search for its first playoff berth in a decade. Follow JR Radcliffe for updates.

Whitefish Bay at Port Washington. The Blue Dukes are on a roll to start the season, so good that it’s fair to ask if this is the best team in the North Shore (though Homestead probably secures that title for now). Port Washington jumped out to a 2-1 start to the year and is a legitimate obstacle in 2016.

Wauwatosa West at Greendale. The battle lost a little juice after Tosa West was defeated soundly by New Berlin Eisenhower last week, but it could still be a compelling Woodland West battle. The Panthers are undefeated but have won close battles each time. Follow John Rech for updates.