There has been little surprise of late — the past three state champions started the season ranked No. 1 and went undefeated to win the title.
Winners of two of those titles, the Hi-Plains Patriots have lost only one playoff game in that stretch, to Kit Carson in the 2007 title game.
And the trend looks to continue this season, with the Patriots starting the season at No. 1.
“Until beaten, with tradition and knowing how to win, Hi-Plains is the team,” Otis coach Ken Bretz said.
Patriots coach Dave Sheffield did not start practice until this week because he was busy coaching his boys to a state 6-man football title and gaining “an added drop of confidence.”
“It is time to get playing,” said Sheffield, who has three seniors and an experienced set of reserves.
The Caliche Buffaloes, last year’s second-place team in state, lost only one starter and have seven seniors, including three 2008 all-state players.
Shaun Hummel, Special to The Denver Post
THE DENVER POST/ 9NEWS PRESEASON POLL
1. Hi-Plains
2. Caliche
3. Flagler
4. Granada
5. Kit Carson
6. Peetz
7. McClave
8. Ouray
9. Community Christian
10. Crested Butte
