1. Hi-Plains: Said coach Dave Sheffield, “This team is going to win.” The Patriots are playing for fallen teammate Evan Bancroft.
2. Eads: The defending champs lost some key pieces (including a coach) but still have the personnel to make another serious run.
3. Peetz: The Bulldogs have owned the North for years, and with loads of experience across the board, this year should be no different.
4. Idalia: A state championship is always the goal for this school.
5. Kit Carson: With the number of players on the decline, this may be the Wildcats’ last shot for a while.
Players to watch
Colt Baker, Arickaree, Sr., QB-LB: One of four seniors who have seen plenty of playing time for the up-and-coming Indians.
Jon Ball, Kit Carson, Sr., E-DE: The 6-foot-4, 200-pound Ball will be tough to bring down after moving from center to end.
Bruce Baxter, Briggsdale, Sr., RB-DB: His 1,600 yards last season took the Falcons back to the playoffs for the first time in four seasons.
Spencer Bell, Deer Trail, Sr. RB-LB: The Eagles will get the ball in his hands as much as possible.
Kyle Burk, South Baca County, Sr., E-NG: A transfer from Springfield, his 6-foot-2, 240-pound frame will bolster lines.
Keith Hahn, Peetz, Sr., E-LB: As good a blocker and receiver as there is in the 6-man game.
Kent Herman, Hi-Plains, Sr., E-LB: The MVP of the Western State football camp has shaken off the effects of last year’s hip pointer injury.
Aaron Hiner, Woodlin, Sr., RB-NG: If he recovers from a late-summer broken collarbone, he could be vital to the Mustangs’ success.
Taylor Reed, Eads, Jr., QB-LB: Will be a bigger focal point of the defending champs’ potent offense.
Luke Terrell, Idalia, Jr., RB-LB: Will spearhead the Wolves’ new power running attack.
Jon E. Yunt, The Denver Post
