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2015 Football Capsule Previews

AGASSI PREP

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Isaac Watts, first season

2014 record: 8-3 (6-1 Southern, second)

Returning lettermen: 12

Returning starters: Six offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Stephan Laushaul (Sr.); QB Jonas Patterson (Sr.); TE/RB Zeivaun Ned (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DB KeZaun Cooper (Sr.); DB Stephan Laushaul (Sr.)

Key losses: RB/DB Kobe Williams

Outlook: Agassi Prep made it all the way to the Division III state semifinals a season ago after losing just one regular-season league contest.

The Stars are fit to make another deep run this season, but they will have to do it without Williams, who was named an all-league performer at running back.

Laushaul, who ran for 897 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, returns as one of the team's best playmakers and all-around performers. He will anchor the team's spread offense and get help from upperclassmen Patterson and Ned.

First-year coach Watts said he hopes "to win the division and have a home playoff berth" and that his goal is "to win a championship."

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ARBOR VIEW

League: Division I Northwest

Head coach: Dan Barnson, ninth season (62-26)

2014 record: 11-1 (4-0 Northwest, first)

Returning lettermen: 22

Returning starters: Three offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Double wing

Base defensive set: 4-2-5

Top offensive players: T Keenen King (Sr.); TE Bishop Jones (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Gage Motl (Sr.); S Noah Noce (Sr.); LB Bishop Jones (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB Morris Jackson (Sr.); RB Curtis Jones (Sr.); DB Alex Sims (Sr.); QB Hayden Bollinger (Jr.)

Key losses: OT/DT Malik Noshi; RB Herman Gray

Outlook: The Aggies have won at least eight games for five straight seasons, and Barnson expects his squad to be in a similar position again this year.

The defending Northwest League champs have plenty of holes to fill after being hit hard by graduation. Gone is all-state running back Gray, who rushed for 1,739 yards in earning the Northwest's Offensive MVP award. Second-leading rusher Charles Louch (704 yards) also is gone, but the Aggies generally have little problem replacing backs in their double-wing offense.

A bigger problem may come on the offensive line, where the team lost four starters, including all-state first teamer Noshi. The other three also garnered all-league honors.

But the 6-foot-5-inch, 305-pound King is a tremendous building block up front. He holds scholarship offers from several schools, including UNLV and Arizona State.

There is more experience back on the defensive side, where Noce was a second-team all-state selection after recording 60 tackles and five interceptions. Two-year starter Motl (43 tackles) adds experience.

"We will be strong and physical," Barnson said.

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BASIC

League: Division I Southeast

Head coach: Jeff Cahill, eighth season (46-32)

2014 record: 6-6 (1-3 Southeast, fourth)

Returning lettermen: 24

Returning starters: Seven offense, nine defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: QB Aeneas McAllister (Sr.); RB Sean White (Sr.); WR DeShawn Eagles (Jr.); OL Quinton Wilson (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Brian Evans (Sr.); DE Kendahl Blakely (Sr.); MLB John Funaki (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR DeShawn Eagles (Jr.); OLB Garddy Lustin (Sr.); WR Patrick Lustin (Jr.)

Key losses: WR Josh Villaros; RB/CB Darius Isaiah

Outlook: The Wolves were the surprise team of the postseason last year, advancing all the way to the Sunrise Region title game after winning just one league game.

The team returns plenty of experience from the squad that lost 28-16 to Liberty for the Sunrise title.

McAllister returns at quarterback, and he got better as last season progressed. He finished with 1,553 passing yards and 15 TDs, and rushed for a team-high 420 yards and 10 TDs.

He'll miss the production of all-state receiver Villaros (46 catches, 842 yards, 11 TDs). But the 6-foot-4-inch Eagles gives him another big target, and the 225-pound White (377 yards, 7 TDs) should lead a bruising ground game.

The Wolves were shaky defensively last season, giving up 30 or more points seven times. Evans and Blakely both were first-team All-Southeast League picks last season, and a year of experience should make Basic tougher on that side of the ball.

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BEATTY

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: James Robertson

2014 record: 7-3 (5-2 Southern, third)

Top offensive players: RB Jhonpaul Adujar (Jr.); WR Jacob Oseguera (Jr.)

Top defensive players: Nikolas Zamora (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Luis Flores

Outlook: Beatty secured the Southern League's No. 3 seed last season after losing three games, including two to Spring Mountain.

The Hornets lost Flores, a standout on both sides of the ball, but return juniors Adujar and Oseguera.

Adujar ran for 823 yards and 10 touchdowns a season ago, while Oseguera finished with 656 receiving yards and 10 scores.

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BEAVER DAM

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Rory Hurley, fifth season

2014 record: 0-7 (0-6 Southern, seventh)

Returning lettermen: 12

Base offensive set: Single wing

Base defensive set: 4-3-1

Top offensive players: RB Luiz Gonzalez (Sr.); QB Uriel Perez (Jr.); RB Memo Hermosillo

Top defensive players: LB Arturo Gonzalez (Jr.); DL Danny Rincon (Sr.); LB Manny Villareal (So.)

Key losses: OL/DL Eddy Castro; OL/DL Saulo Salas; OL Tanner Garlick; RB/LB Uriel Rosas; RB/LB Adan Lopez

Outlook: Beaver Dam lost all of its starting offensive line, but it did return some key players in the skill positions.

The Diamondbacks, who were winless last season, will be looking to flip the script when it faces Fredonia (Ariz.) on Aug. 30.

Perez is back at quarterback and will be eager to break out after getting a year of experience under his belt. He will get help from Gonzalez, who led the team in scoring last season at running back.

"The team looks to improve on the defensive side, so the offense doesn't have to carry such a heavy load," Hurley said.

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BISHOP GORMAN

League: Division I Southwest

Head coach: Kenny Sanchez, first season

2014 record: 15-0 (4-0 Southwest, first)

Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense

Top offensive players: QB Tate Martell (Jr.); WR Tyjon Lindsey (Jr.); OL Julio Garcia (Sr.); OL Jaron Caldwell (Sr.); WR Brandon Gahagan (Sr.); RB John Shumaker (Sr.); RB Biaggio Ali Walsh (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DB Alex Perry (Jr.); DE Michael Geraghty (Sr.); DT Haskell Garrett (Jr.); OLB Ikem Okeke (Sr.)

Top newcomers: TE/OLB Brevin Jordan (So.); QB/ATH Dorian Thompson-Robinson (So.); WR/DB Brendan Radley-Hiles (So.)

Key losses: TE Alize Jones; SS Nicco Fertitta; OL Jackson Perry; LB Nela Otukolo

Outlook: Most high school programs couldn't recover from losing the nation's top tight end (Jones), a Notre Dame recruit (Fertitta), its leading tackler (Otukolo), its leading rusher (Russell Booze) and the national coach of the year (Tony Sanchez).

But don't weep for the Gaels. They'll be just fine.

Kenny Sanchez takes over for his older brother, now the head coach at UNLV. And while the losses were substantial, so is the remaining talent.

It starts with Martell, the Review-Journal's state player of the year in 2014. He has committed to Texas A&M and completed 62 percent of his passes as a sophomore for 2,537 yards and 40 TDs with just two interceptions.

Shumaker (625 yards, 13 TDs) and Ali Walsh (595 yards, 10 TDs) should gain plenty of yards in place of Booze. Lindsey (34 catches, 884 yards, 15 TDs) is one of the nation's top receiver recruits in the junior class, and Gahagan (22 catches, 357 yards) is more than capable of being a No. 2 receiver.

On defense, Garrett (79 tackles, 12 sacks) will continue to be a menace to opposing offenses with his combination of size and quickness.

Perry (46 tackles) already has committed to Arizona State and will lead the secondary, and Okeke (55 tackles, 6 sacks) gives the Gaels an explosive presence at outside linebacker.

Geraghty returns to bolster the defense after missing last season with injury.

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BONANZA

League: Division I Northwest

Head coach: Kevin Volcic, third season (3-15)

2014 record: 0-9 (0-4 Northwest, fifth)

Outlook: This will be a year of small gains after a dismal 2014 season.

A 33-25 loss to Durango was as close as the Bengals came to a victory last year. Bonanza scored a total of 53 points last season, and gave up 60 or more three times.

Volcic has seven sophomores on the roster as he tries to rebuild the program.

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BOULDER CITY

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Chris Morelli, first season

2014 record: 4-6 (2-4 Sunrise, fourth)

Outlook: Leading rusher Logan Branscum (535 yards, 2 TDs) returns for the Eagles as they hope to make another playoff push.

Branscum also caught 17 passes for 276 yards and four TDs, but Boulder City must replace do-everything quarterback/safety Trenton Carmell, who passed for 10 TDs and rushed for 12.

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CALVARY CHAPEL

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Tim Dombroski, first season

2014 record: 1-7 (1-6 Southern, seventh)

Returning lettermen: Five

Returning starters: Four offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 5-3

Top offensive players: QB Christian O'Kelley (Jr.); WR David Golden Jr. (Jr.); RB Eli Carrington (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Dawson Thomas (Jr.); S Alex Neider (Jr.)

Top newcomers: WR David Golden Jr. (Jr.)

Key losses: OL/DL James Gentile

Outlook: Calvary Chapel hasn't made the playoffs since 2006 and has gone a combined 5-20 over the last three seasons. The drought probably won't end this season.

The Lions only have 17 players on their roster and none are seniors, so many positions will be filled by underclassmen.

Calvary Chapel also lost its only senior over the summer in Gentile, who was an all-league selection on both sides of the ball. The standout lineman moved to Hawaii.

On the bright side, O'Kelley returns as the team's signal caller and will get plenty of help from newcomer Golden Jr. and Carrington on the offensive side.

Thomas and Neider, both juniors, will be the anchors on defense. The two hope to refine a defense that surrendered 30.3 points a game last season.

"Even though we have a young and inexperienced team, we are motivated to prove a point," first-year coach Dombroski said. "This is a great opportunity for us to draw a line in the sand and start building something special by setting a trend to do things correctly from the beginning."

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CANYON SPRINGS

League: Division I Northeast

Head coach: Keith Jones, first season

2014 record: 6-4 (3-1 Northeast, first)

Returning lettermen: 15

Returning starters: One offense, four defense

Base offensive set: New pro style

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB Trevon Dean (Sr.); C Ernesto Trejo (Sr.); RB Jerrod Blackwell (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Marcell Selmon (Sr.); DB Christian Minor (Sr.); DB Tyson Odum (Sr.); DL Jaleel Rogers (Sr.); LB Emmitt Gray (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB Diamante Burton (So.); RB/WR Lazerus Kyle (Jr.)

Key losses: DL Melvin Johnson; WR Kajuan Casey; QB Bradley Alexander; LB Gregory Banks

Outlook: Jones inherits a tall task in replacing former UNLV and arena-league standout Hunkie Cooper, who made the Pioneers perennial contenders.

Cooper, who was 43-20 in six seasons, left to take an assistant coaching job at San Diego State.

Jones also inherits a team with little experience, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

Gone is all-league quarterback Alexander, who passed for 1,442 yards and 17 TDs while throwing just five interceptions. Leading rusher Zaviontay Stevenson (722 yards, 8 TDs) also is gone along with essentially the entire receiving corps.

The athletic Dean showed flashes when he spelled Alexander last season. He finished with 501 passing yards and five TDs but will have to shoulder a much bigger load this season.

So will Blackwell, who rushed for 255 yards and five TDs while backing up Stevenson.

The secondary looks like a strength on the defensive side of the ball, and returning all-league lineman Rogers (34 tackles, two sacks) will lead the front seven.

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CENTENNIAL

League: Division I Northwest

Head coach: Leon Evans, sixth season (39-18)

2014 record: 9-2 (3-1 Northwest, second)

Returning lettermen: 19

Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-2

Top offensive players: RB Rhamondre Stevenson (Sr.); WR Savon Scarver (Jr.); QB Jamaal Evans (Jr.); WR Tyler Hennis (Sr.); OL Roy Martorello (Sr.); OL Jacob Kelly (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Tishawn Barnaby (Sr.); DL Greg Rogers (Jr.); DL Tyler Williamson (Sr.); DL Sky Rodriguez (Sr.); LB Sean Sunn (Sr.); DB Demetrius Goodman (Sr.); DL Dante Rios (Sr.); DB Justice Selmon (Sr.); DL Paul Blair (Sr.); DB J.J. Johnson (Jr.)

Top newcomers: DL Kiari Murphy (Jr.); LB Nick Stevenson (Jr.); OL Arath Rangel (Jr.); OL Elijah Iono (Jr.); OL Kobe Jones (Jr.); RB Kayvon Miller (Jr.)

Key losses: K/P Zach Mays; DB Samuel Liaga

Outlook: The Bulldogs started 8-0 before a 21-16 loss to Arbor View in the regular-season finale last fall and look ready to contend for the league title again this season.

Stevenson is back to lead the offense. He was a second-team all-state selection at running back after rushing for 1,457 yards and 17 TDs as a junior.

Evans said the offensive line has improved, which should make the hard-charging Stevenson a bigger threat. Martorello, a second-team all-league pick at center, should lead the line.

Scarver was a first-team all-league wide receiver after leading the Bulldogs with 16 catches for 351 yards and five TDs.

Defensively, Evans expects the front seven to be among the best in the area.

Rogers (6-4, 290) is a four-star recruit who already holds offers from several Pac-12 schools, including Arizona, Arizona State and UCLA. He had 37 tackles and two sacks and was a first-team all-league defensive tackle. He will join Williamson (39 tackles) and Rodriguez (32 tackles, 5 sacks) on what should be a very strong line.

Barnaby was second on the team with 66 tackles last season, and should lead the linebackers.

Evans is concerned about the kicking game as he must find a replacement for all-state kicker Mays.

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CHAPARRAL

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Paul Nihipali, second season (5-5)

2014 record: 5-5 (4-2 Sunrise, third)

Returning lettermen: 15

Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-5

Top offensive players: RB Richard Nelson (Sr.); RB Richard Hernandez (Sr.); WR Casey Acosta (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Antwain Allen (Sr.); LB Richard Hernandez (Sr.); LB Richard Nelson (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB Jacob Ford (Jr.): WR Kentrell Petite (Jr.); OL Kakani Lealo (Jr.)

Key losses: QB Jerome Williamson; WR Mahari Trotter; OL Eric Liggins

Outlook: The Cowboys earned their first playoff berth since 2007 last season and now are looking to make consecutive appearances for the first time since 2001 and 2002.

The Cowboys must replace shifty quarterback Williamson, who passed for 989 yards and nine TDs and added six rushing scores.

Slot receiver Acosta was the team's leading rusher last season with 404 yards and six TDs, and he led the team in receptions with 21 catches for 315 yards and four scores.

Nelson (338 yards, 4 TDs) and Hernandez (116 yards, 4 TDs) should help on the ground.

Defensively, Hernandez had 60 tackles and returns to lead the defense.

Allen (35 tackles) and Nelson (24 tackles) round out what should be a solid linebacking corps.

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CHEYENNE

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: David Cochran, sixth season (25-26)

2014 record: 4-6 (4-3 Sunset, third)

Returning lettermen: 25

Returning starters: Eight offense, nine defense

Base offensive set: Shotgun double wing

Base defensive set: Four-man front

Top offensive players: RB/WR Zavieh Harrell (Sr.); QB A.J. McConnico (Sr.); WR Ashton Lawson (Sr.); RB David Walker (Sr.)

Top defensive players: MLB George Carmona; DB Ashton Lawson; MLB John Tarver; SS Laron Perkins

Top newcomers: RB/WR/CB Corwin Bush (Jr.); RB/WR/CB Derionte Green (Jr.); WR/FS William Federson (Jr.)

Key losses: TE/OL Joe Rose; OL Erwin Burrell

Outlook: The Desert Shields made the playoffs for the fourth straight year last season, but it was a rocky ride to the postseason.

Cheyenne beat Sunset League champion and 2013 I-A state champ Faith Lutheran, but lost to Pahrump Valley and Clark, two teams that missed the playoffs. When it all shook out, the Desert Shields finished in a cluster of five teams at 4-3 in the league and wound up with the league's No. 3 playoff seed.

Cochran is shooting for a better result this season.

Harrell is a big-play threat who rushed for 537 yards and five TDs and caught 12 passes for 303 yards and five scores.

Lawson also can make big plays, as he averaged 28.9 yards per catch, and four of his seven receptions went for touchdowns.

Walker was the team's leading rusher with 654 yards.

On defense, Carmona should lead the way from his middle linebacker position after making the All-Sunset League first team last season. Lawson, who had four interceptions, made the first team at defensive back and will key the secondary.

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CIMARRON-MEMORIAL

League: Division I Northwest

Head coach: John Parcells, fifth season (19-20)

2014 record: 4-6 (2-2 Northwest, third)

Returning lettermen: 10

Returning starters: Five offense, two defense

Base offensive set: Two-back

Base defensive set: Odd front

Top offensive players: G K.J. Gentry (Jr.); WR Micahel Soukup (Sr.); RB Tyree Riley (Jr.); T Dustin Bouch (Sr.); T Bryan Wachowski-Cook (Jr.)

Top defensive players: ILB Nathaniel Garcia (Sr.); FS Marcus Phillips (So.); CB Antwaun Rainey (Sr.); OLB Isaiah Bell (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB/ILB George Tribble (So.); RB/ILB Tupe McComber (So.); RB/OLB Jordan Muroni (So.)

Key losses: QB Derek Morefield; ILB John Nelson; OLB/WR Joe Tito

Outlook: Graduation hit the Spartans hard, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

Cimarron struggled some on defense last season, allowing 30 or more points in all six of its losses and an average of 26.2 for the season.

And that was with Northwest League Defensive MVP John Nelson, a first-team all-state pick at linebacker who led the team with 109 tackles.

Garcia, who was second on the team with 90 tackles, will have to pick up the slack and lead the young defense. He earned second-team All-Northwest honors last season.

On offense, the Spartans must replace quarterback Morefield and its top receiving threats. Morefield, who is playing at Navy, passed for 1,421 yards and 13 TDs.

Riley led the team in rushing with 425 yards, and Gentry and Wachowski-Cook are back to anchor the line after making the All-Northwest second team last season.

Soukup caught just 10 balls last season, but is the top returning receiver.

"(We are) a young, inexperienced team whose goal is to improve every day while learning what it takes to compete versus the speed at the varsity level," Parcells said.

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CLARK

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: Don Willis, 10th season (27-59)

2014 record: 5-4 (4-3 Sunset, sixth)

Returning lettermen: 10

Returning starters: Five offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-5

Top offensive players: RB Milan Dixon (Sr.); QB Nick Kinnard (Jr.); TE Amir Boone (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Robert A'Hearn (Sr.); NG Omar Arellano (Sr.); DE Jordan Strong (Sr.)

Top newcomers: FS Bobby Coffman (Jr.)

Outlook: The Chargers ended a 10-year playoff drought in 2013, but failed to make the postseason despite finishing above .500 last year.

Willis is out to get his team back in the postseason this year.

Dixon returns for his third season and was an All-Sunset League pick last year. He ran for 320 yards and four TDs, but had 726 yards and 10 scores as a sophomore.

Kinnard should be better with a year of experience. He passed for 1,071 yards and 10 scores, but will look to improve on his 48.5 percent completion rate and cut down on interceptions after throwing 11 last year.

Willis said the question will be on the offensive line, where the Chargers have little experience.

"If the offensive line comes along, Milan Dixon will have a huge year," Willis said.

On defense, A'Hearn returns after making the All-Sunset League first team last season. He posted 57 tackles and two sacks, and should key the defensive unit.

Clark was among five teams tied at 4-3 in the league last season, and wound up in sixth place on tiebreakers. The playoff race should be interesting again this year, with at least six teams in the mix for the league's four playoff berths.

"We expect to make the playoffs," Willis said.

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CORONADO

League: Division I Southeast

Head coach: William Froman, first season

2014 record: 7-4 (3-1 Southeast, first)

Outlook: Froman takes over a program that made great strides over the past three seasons.

He takes the reigns from Brad Talich, who now is at Desert Oasis. Talich guided the Cougars to a 10-4 mark in Southeast League games in his three seasons.

Travis Boman, who has a scholarship offer from Weber State, should lead the Cougars after hauling in 43 passes for 593 yards and five TDs last season.

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DEL SOL

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Gary Maki, third season (6-12)

2014 record: 5-4 (2-4 Sunrise, fifth)

Returning lettermen: Three

Returning starters: One offense, two defense

Base offensive set: Double wing

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: RB Jey Pete (Sr.); RB Taariq Flowers (So.)

Top defensive players: LB Jey Pete (Sr.); LB Cordell Bowie (Sr.); LB Treyvon Canete (Jr.); S Jonathan Spearman (Jr.)

Top newcomers: Julio Erazo (Sr.); Bo Beagle (Sr.); Nate Bryan (Sr.); Evan Williamson (Sr.); Darrion Jones (So.); Jason Hoyer (So.); Barry Williams (So.); Joshua Dover (So.); Francis Bangayan (Jr.); Reggie Rogers (Sr.); Jonathan Spearman (Jr.); Alvert Waltower (Sr.)

Outlook: The Dragons were once among the top teams in the state, but they haven't made the playoffs since 2010.

That drought probably won't end this season. Del Sol graduated 21 of 27 players from last year's team, so there is little experience as the season starts.

There is hope for the future, as Flowers returns after leading the team in rushing with 537 yards and nine touchdowns as freshman. He rushed for 329 yards and six TDs on only nine carries in the season finale against Rancho.

With so many players making the transition to the varsity level, Maki is realistic about the upcoming season.

"The immediate outlook could be challenging, but the future could be bright," Maki said.

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DESERT OASIS

League: Division I Northwest

Head coach: Brad Talich, first season

2014 record: 2-8 (1-3 Northwest, fourth)

Returning lettermen: Eight

Returning starters: Four offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: Multiple

Top offensive players: QB Brannon Flowers (Jr.); WR Branden Peterson (Sr.); T Jack Crane (Sr.); WR Zion Jones (Sr.); G Ryan Knipp (Sr.)

Top defensive players: S Branden Peterson (Sr.); LB Ryan Knipp (Sr.); DL Jordan Daug (Sr.); LB Jason Sanders (Jr.); S Jalen Jona (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR/DB Branden Peterson (Sr.)

Outlook: Before Talich arrived at Coronado, the Cougars had missed the playoffs in five consecutive seasons and had won a total of two league games in the previous three years. He quickly turned the Cougars into one of the top teams in the Sunrise Region, and they went 10-4 in the Southeast League in his three seasons.

He'll try for a similar transformation at Desert Oasis.

The Diamondbacks have managed just one league win in each of the past three seasons, and they posted a 8-21 record in that time.

Talich's Coronado teams were traditionally strong on defense, something that can't be said of last year's Desert Oasis squad, which allowed an average of 37.2 points.

Cutting that number down will be a priority.

The Diamondbacks will have a new quarterback, a new running back and new receivers on offense.

Look for newcomer Peterson to provide a spark on both sides of the ball, along with returning two-way standout Knipp.

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DESERT PINES

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Tico Rodriguez, third season (20-4)

2014 record: 11-2 (5-1 Sunrise, second)

Returning lettermen: 25

Returning starters: Seven offense, eight defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-4

Top offensive players: QB Marckell Grayson (Jr.); RB Isaiah Morris (Jr.); RB Trevor Nofoa (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Anthony Smith (Sr.); LB Vasa Hansell (Sr.); DT Angel Torres (Sr.)

Top newcomers: FS/WR Randal Grimes (Jr.); RB Andrew Gray (Jr.); WR Amari Tatum (Sr.)

Key losses: Jon McCoy; Andre Watts

Outlook: The Jaguars were poised to win their first state title last season before a fourth-quarter collapse against Moapa Valley in the state title game.

Desert Pines led 20-0 at the half and 36-14 after three quarters before the Pirates rallied to tie the game in the fourth quarter and eventually won 42-36 in overtime.

But there is plenty to build on for the Jaguars, starting with a high-powered offense.

Grayson and Morris had outstanding sophomore seasons and should only get better with a year of varsity experience.

Grayson passed for 2,180 yards and 27 TDs with nine interceptions in earning second-team all-state honors. Morris rushed for 1,504 yards and 17 TDs, averaging 9.5 yards per carry.

The only question on offense comes at receiver, as the Jaguars lost their top two pass catchers in Watts (37 catches, 529 yards, 10 TDs) and McCoy (22 catches, 521 yards, 6 TDs).

At 6-5, Sierra Vista transfer Grimes should provide a long, athletic receiving threat when he lines up on offense.

Smith, a first-team all-state selection, will miss the season with a knee injury suffered in the team's preseason scrimmage. He recorded 16 sacks as a junior.

Hansell was the team's leading tackler with 72 last season and earned second-team all-state honors, and Torres gives the team another solid pass rusher after recording eight sacks last season.

Grimes picked off four passes and recorded 50 tackles for Sierra Vista last season and should lead the secondary.

"(We look) to continue to build on last year's success," Rodriguez said.

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DURANGO

League: Division I Southwest

Head coach: Matt Gerber, fourth season (6-22)

2014 record: 1-8 (0-4 Southwest, fifth)

Returning lettermen: 13

Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 40

Top offensive players: RB Leontre Austin (Sr.); QB Jon Schofield (Jr.); WR Jayson Johnson (Jr.); WR Troy Smidt (Sr.); WR Seth Garcia (Sr.); OL Rudy Juarez (Sr); OL Jesus Solis (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Kenneth Miller (Sr.); LB Seth Garcia (Sr.); LB Brent Gray (Jr.); DB Jayson Johnson (Jr.); DB Zayvion Wilson (Jr.); DB Jacob Bourgault (Jr.)

Top newcomers: WR Isaiah Johnson (Sr.); DB Payton Scott (So.); WR Tai Foster (So.); WR Marquelle Diggs (So.); RB/DB Tarron Brumfield (Jr.)

Key losses: LB Artie Gallegos; WR/DB Daniel Medina; OL/DL Elijah Colbert

Outlook: The Trailblazers struggled mightily on both sides of the ball last season.

They averaged just 11.8 points and scored more than 20 points only once in a 33-25 win over Bonanza.

On defense, they allowed an average of 47 points and gave up 40 or more in all four league games.

Gerber said the team only has 31 players, but has solid experience on both sides of the ball.

Austin is back at running back after leading the team with 364 rushing yards and three TDs last fall. He also led the team in receiving with 23 catches for 135 yards.

Schofield is back at quarterback where he passed for 558 yards and five TDs with eight interceptions.

Miller should lead the defense. He had 63 tackles last season and will need to help replace graduated linebacker Gallegos, who led the squad with 107 tackles.

"With that veteran leadership and the addition of some new talent, the Blazers' goal is to return to the playoffs after a two-year hiatus," Gerber said.

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ELDORADO

League: Division I Southeast

Head coach: Robert Cutts, first season

2014 record: 4-5 (0-4 Southeast, fifth)

Returning lettermen: 10

Returning starters: Three offense, three defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-3-5

Top offensive players: QB Deven Dabbs (Sr.); WR Shane Barnes (Sr.); WR Carl Crayon (Sr.)

Top defensive players: CB Carl Crayon (Sr.); CB Mike Davis (Sr.); MLB Tristen Sanchez (Sr.)

Key losses: QB/WR Josh Brown

Outlook: Cutts takes over a program looking for its first playoff appearance since 2004.

There is reason for optimism, especially on offense. Dabbs returns at quarterback after completing 63 percent of his passes for 1,434 yards and 19 TDs last season in his first year as a varsity regular.

Barnes and Crayon should give him solid targets out of the team's spread offense. Barnes was a first-team All-Southeast League selection at receiver after catching 24 passes for 431 yards and nine TDs last year.

Crayon added 15 catches for 248 yards and three scores.

The Sundevils will miss the versatile Brown, who lined up at quarterback, receiver and running back and offered big-play capability every time he touched the ball.

The team also must shore up its defense, after allowing an average of 31.9 points last season.

But if the team can plug the holes on defense and find a consistent running game to balance its passing attack, the Sundevils could end their playoff drought.

"Offensively, we should put on a show with a strong-arm quarterback and a talented wide receiver corps," Cutts said. "Defensively, the pressure is on."

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FAITH LUTHERAN

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: Vernon Fox, third season (19-6)

2014 record: 7-4 (5-2 Sunset, first)

Returning lettermen: 20

Returning starters: Three offense, five defense

Top offensive players: RB Christian Marshall (Jr.); QB Brenden Joyce (Sr.); WR Elijah Kothe (So.)

Top defensive players: LB/DB Cole Thomas (Sr.); NT Christian Khoury (Sr.); DT Jalen Flowers (Jr.); CB Robby Schwartz (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR/DB Brytt Weber (Sr.): LB Chris Stanek (Sr.); WR/DB Alec Netski (Jr.); LB John Thomson (So.)

Key losses: OT John Molchon; WR Mark Rubalcaba; S Tyler Mahan

Outlook: Fox likes the potential of his young team, but the Crusaders must plug gaps quickly if they are to win another league title.

Marshall is a good place to start. The athletic back rushed for 838 yards and 12 TDs as a sophomore, and probably will shoulder more of the load this season with the graduation of big-play wideout Rubalcaba (64 catches, 1,084 yards, 13 TDs) and steady quarterback Greg Benson (1,573 passing yards, 18 TDs, 4 INT).

Joyce saw limited time backing up Benson and completed 11 of 29 passes for 152 yards. Kothe had more catches on defense than offense last season, as he had two interceptions and just one reception. But the sophomore will have to step into a larger role in the offense this year.

On defense, Thomas was a second-team All-Sunset League pick at linebacker after leading the team with 89 tackles.

Khoury and Flowers should anchor what Fox termed a "very strong defensive line group."

"(We are) a team full of athletes and skill players that can contribute right away," Fox said. "An explosive offensive group and fast and active defensive group with big-play potential."

———

FOOTHILL

League: Division I Southeast

Head coach: Marty Redmond, 11th season (63-47)

2014 record: 5-5 (3-1 Southeast, second)

Returning starters: Four offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-4

Top offensive players: QB Devon Mueller (Sr.); WR Devin Smith (Sr.); RB Justice Jackson (Sr.); WR Brandon Hargis (Jr.)

Top defensive players: S Sean Hamilton (Sr.); LB Justin Dunlap (Jr.); CB Devin Smith (Sr.); LB Jose Valenzuela (Sr.)

Key losses: WR/DB Aedan Bartolowits; RB/LB Bobby Merritt; LB Josh Ozuna; LB Te'Vion Reed

Outlook: Redmond expects offense to be the team's strength, led by returning quarterback Mueller and what the coach calls a "large offensive line that anchors the team."

Mueller earned second-team All-Southeast League honors as a junior after passing for 1,366 yards and 18 touchdowns. He threw seven interceptions.

The Falcons will have to replace their top four receivers, including Bartolowits, who led the team with 31 catches for 504 yards and seven TDs. But Redmond expects Smith and Hargis to be strong threats in the passing game.

Jackson is back at running back and will look to improve on a junior season in which he led the team in rushing with 691 yards and eight TDs.

On defense, Foothill has more holes to fill. Bartolowits, who had five interceptions, was a first-team all-league safety. Ozuna (104 tackles) and Reed (134 tackles, six sacks) also made the league's first team and were Foothill's top two tacklers.

Redmond said Valenzuela and Dunlap will be key in stopping the run, and Smith and Hamilton lend experience to the defense.

"Although the defense is young, they are much more athletic than in years past," Redmond said.

———

GREEN VALLEY

League: Division I Southeast

Head coach: Brian Castro, fifth season (30-13)

2014 record: 7-3 (3-1 Southeast, third)

Returning lettermen: Eight

Returning starters: Four offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: WR Isiah Macklin (Sr.); WR/RB Austin Warhop (Sr.); WR Brayon Williams (Sr.); OL Eric Brown (So.)

Top defensive players: OLB Brock Hershberger (Jr.); ILB David Berg (Sr.); DT Spencer Racelis (Sr.); DB Nahzi Salih (Jr.)

Top newcomers: LB C.J. Araujo (Jr.); SS David Vazquez (Sr.); K/QB Spencer Cofer (Sr.)

Key losses: RB Albert Lake; QB Christian Lopez; OL Carter Nielson; OL Tafa Vete; OLB Nathan McAloon

Outlook: The Gators have won two league titles in the past three seasons but must replace some key players, especially on offense, as they enter the 2015.

Gone is three-year starting quarterback Lopez, who passed for 7,115 yards and 65 TDs in his career.

Also gone is first-team all-state running back Lake, who rushed for 1,258 yards and 14 TDs last season, and all-state offensive lineman Nielson.

Green Valley does return a trio of experienced receivers in Macklin (26 catches, 319 yards), Warhop (33 catches, 350 yards) and Williams (29 catches, 402 yards, 5 TDs). The 6-5 Macklin has the size and athleticism to be a game-changing receiver.

Herschberger returns to lead the defense after recording 53 tackles and eight sacks last season. Berg (55 tackles), Racelis (31 tackles, 5 sacks) and Salih (29 tackles) lend experience on the defensive side of the ball.

Coronado transfer Cofer should help, as well. He saw time at quarterback for the Cougars last season, passing for 565 yards and eight TDs with just two interceptions. And even if he doesn't win the quarterback job, he'll be a threat as a kicker after booting eight field goals as a junior. He had four field goals of 42 yards or more, including a season best of 54 yards.

"We are a young team with some talented young men," Castro said. "We need to continue to improve every week in order to make it to the playoffs and make a run at winning our division."

INDIAN SPRINGS

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Sope Faga

2014 record: 0-8 (0-6 Southern, eighth)

Outlook: The Thunderbirds found themselves in the cellar of Division IV football a year ago but are hoping to turn the corner this season.

They will be looking for their first playoff appearance since 2013.

———

LAKE MEAD

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Kerry Johnson, first season

2014 record: 1-0

Base offensive set: Dogbone

Base defensive set: Multiple

Top offensive players: RB/QB Brock Ramsey (Sr.); RB Jared Regan (So.); FB Logan Sullivan (So.); QB/RB Mitchell Doliner (So.); WR Noah Tassi (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Jake Bryan (Sr.); LB Zach Brockner (Jr.); LB Zach Laswell (Sr.)

Outlook: Lake Mead returns to Division III this season after playing just one game as an Independent a year ago (a 34-6 win over Indian Springs).

Ramsey is one of just three seniors on the roster. He will look to make strong contributions from both quarterback and running back in the team's "Dogbone" offense, which is a variation of the wishbone.

Bryan and Laswell, the other two seniors, will anchor the defense at linebacker.

"With some breaks and avoiding injuries, Lake Mead could contend for a playoff spot," Johnson said.

———

LAS VEGAS

League: Division I Northeast

Head coach: James Thurman, fifth season (27-16)

2014 record: 6-5 (3-1 Northeast, third)

Returning lettermen: 12

Returning starters: Six offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: Even

Top offensive players: RB Elijah Hicks (So.); WR Raul Perez (Sr.); WR Zach Loveland (Sr.); WR Hanoi Rabago (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Cruz Littlefield (Jr.); LB Thomas Dorsey (Jr.)

Key losses: QB Trevor Swenson; LB Jacob Littlefield; DB Kode Mwirigi; DL Dante Ortiz

Outlook: The Wildcats have made 16 consecutive trips to the postseason, but they haven't won a league title since 2010.

Still, Las Vegas always seems to be among the best teams in the Sunrise Region, and Thurman hopes this year is no exception.

Expect the offense to revolve around Hicks, who burst on to the scene, rushing for 849 yards and 10 TDs as a freshman. He also was a solid receiver, catching 20 passes for 170 yards and a score.

Loveland (27 catches, 340 yards), Rabago (21 catches, 274 yards) and Perez (18 catches, 169 yards) give the Wildcats three solid, experienced receivers. But the team must find a replacement for three-year starting quarterback Swenson, who passed for 2,009 yards and 13 TDs as a senior.

The defense also must find a way to plug gaps and replace a trio of all-state picks: Jacob Littlefield (Northeast Defensive MVP, 83 tackles), Mwirigi (11 interceptions) and Ortiz (13 sacks).

Cruz Littlefield was the team's second-leading tackler as a sophomore with 78, and showed the same nose for the ball as Jacob, an Air Force recruit.

"The Wildcats hope to continue the tradition of competing for the Northeast and Sunrise Region titles," Thurman said. "That's always our goal."

———

LAUGHLIN

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Walt Hemingway, first season

2014 record: 0-9 (0-7 Southern, eighth)

Base offensive set: Hybrid, Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3, 3-3 stacked

Top offensive players: C Andrew Estes (Sr.); QB Tyler Furr (Sr.); OL Brendan Staples (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Coda Abatti (Jr.); DL Jeremy Coffey (Jr.); DL William Stevens (Jr.)

Top newcomers: RB/S Janarius Hickman (Fr.)

Key losses: RB/DB Robert Osuna

Outlook: Laughlin had a tough time in Division III last season, losing by an average of 37.9 points a game.

The Cougars, now under first-year coach Hemingway, look to improve with the return of several upperclassmen.

Furr is back at quarterback and appears to be well-protected behind seniors Estes and Staples.

Estes was selected on the All-Southern League second team on offense last season. He also made the first team for defense.

Coffey and Stevens will continue to wreak havoc on the defensive line, with Abatti cleaning up the mess at linebacker.

"We keep preaching family and togetherness," Hemingway said. "We will work hard and play power football."

———

LEGACY

League: Division I Southwest

Head coach: John Isola, second season (3-7)

2014 record: 3-7 (2-2 Southwest, third)

Returning lettermen: 17

Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Pro

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB Tanoa Alapati (Sr.); RB Justin Whitehead (Sr.); LT Caden Sink (Sr.); C Noah Jefferson (Jr.); RG Kevin Mendiola (Sr.); LT Michael Brooks (Sr.); WR A.J. Culpepper (Jr.); WR Jamal Britt (Jr.); FB/TE Jalen Alapati (Jr.); WR Tracy Porter (Sr.)

Top defensive players: SS A.J. Sotelo (Sr.); DE Derriyon Shaw (Sr.); DB Marcellus McCoy (Jr.); MLB Jalen Alapati (Jr.); OLB Tracy Porter (Sr.); NG Noah Jefferson (Jr.); DE Naim Geeslin (Sr.)

Outlook: Things didn't always go smoothly for the Longhorns in Isola's first season, as the squad endured a pair of three-game losing streaks.

The offense, in particular, had its struggles. The Longhorns were held to 14 points or fewer seven times.

Legacy must also replace its top offensive weapon, DeMichael Walker, who rushed for 1,181 yards and eight TDs as a senior.

Tanoa Alapati is back for his second season at quarterback, but he must show more consistency for the Longhorns to move the ball. He completed 46.8 percent of his passes for 974 yards and eight TDs, but was intercepted 18 times.

The team does have some experience and size up front, where Mendiola (5-11, 260) was a second-team All-Southwest League pick at guard. Sink (6-5, 285) provides plenty of size at tackle.

On defense, Sotelo was a second-team all-league pick at outside linebacker after recording 49 tackles and three sacks.

And the defense should get a big boost from Shaw (6-4, 225), who transferred from Lanier High in Sugar Hill, Ga., where he had 11 sacks and 61 tackles last season.

He could end up being one of the area's top recruits and already holds scholarship offers from several schools, including North Carolina, Arizona State and Boise State.

———

LIBERTY

League: Division I Northeast

Head coach: Rich Muraco, seventh season (61-17)

2014 record: 10-3 (3-1 Northeast, second)

Returning lettermen: 31

Returning starters: Eight offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-4 Flex

Top offensive players: WR Ethan Dedeaux (Jr.); QB Kenyon Oblad (So.); WR Bryan Roland (Sr.); WR Darion Acohido (Jr.); OL Malasala Aumavae-Laulu (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Kaimi Batoon (Sr.); S Arie McQuaig (Sr.); S Damanhy Whittle (Jr.); LB Calvin Tubbs (Sr.); DL Alofania Tevaseu (Sr.); CB Ethan Dedeaux (Jr.)

Top newcomers: WR Gavin Caci (Sr.); C Elliot Epstein (Sr.); RB/S Stephon Stowers (Sr.): DE/TE Nayton Koki (Sr.)

Key losses: DT Noah Jefferson; DL Josh Bernard-Lee; S Preston Pavlica

Outlook: The Patriots had never made the playoffs before 2009, but Muraco has quickly turned the team into a Sunrise Region power. Liberty has won the past five region titles and looks to be among the favorites again this year.

The offense could be explosive, led by junior receiver Dedeaux, a first-team all-state selection last season after catching 42 passes for 872 yards and eight TDs.

Acohido (23 catches, 312 yards) and Roland (21 catches, 307 yards) are two more solid receiving options.

Oblad is coming off a strong freshman season, although he did show some inconsistency.

A year of experience should help him improve after he had 2,240 passing yards and 16 TDs last fall. He completed 54.6 percent of his passes, and was intercepted 12 times.

Injuries forced the team to go deep into its depth chart at running back last season, and the team's top two rushers are gone.

But Tubbs, who was limited to 30 carries last season, is a bruising runner back for a third year at the position.

He'll run behind an experienced line that returns three starters, highlighted by 6-foot-6-inch, 350-pound junior guard Aumavae-Laulu. Muraco said Aumavae-Laulu averaged three pancake blocks last season.

All-state picks Jefferson and Pavlica will be tough to replace on defense, but Batoon is an experienced linebacker who was a first-team All-Northeast League pick last season, and should lead the defense.

———

LINCOLN COUNTY

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Rich Ottley, 16th season

2014 record: 6-4 (5-2 Southern, third)

Returning lettermen: Eight

Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense

Base offensive set: Hybrid Wing-T

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB/DB McClain O'Connor (Sr.); RB/LB Will Culverwell (Sr.); RB/DB Cody Thornock (Jr.); WR/DB Mike Wood (Sr.); TE/DL Zach Florence (Jr.); WR/LB Alex Samson (Jr.); RB/LB Derek Mathews (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DB McClain O'Connor (Sr.); LB Will Culverwell (Sr.); DB Cody Thornock (Jr.); DB Mike Wood (Sr.); DL Zach Florence (Jr.); LB Alex Samson (Jr.); LB Derek Mathews (Jr.)

Top newcomers: QB/DB Landon Smith (Jr.); RB/LB Zach Rowe (Jr.); OL/DL Jordan Povis (Jr.); OL/DL Jacque Wadsworth (Jr.); WR/LB Benson Wadsworth (So.); OL/DL Matt Finlinson (So.); TE/LB Kevin Mathews (Jr.); OL/DL McKinnley O'Connor (Fr.)

Key losses: RB/LB Preston Robbins; TE/LB Jordan Harrington; WR/LB Derek Shumway; OL/DL Kendal Thomas; OL/DL Jessie McClean; OL/LB Hyrum LeBaron; RB/LB Christian Florence; OL/DL Frank Barrett; OL/DL Rich Alfono; OL/DL A.J. Ernst

Outlook: Lincoln County earned the Southern League's No. 3 seed last season before losing its opening-round playoff game to Agassi Prep, 20-12.

The Lynx hope to improve on that finish and appear to be in position to do so. Amid several coaching changes and players graduating around the league, the Lynx expect to be in contention for their first league title since 2008.

Lincoln County will be without a couple key players in Robbins and Shumway, but fortunately, they return their quarterback in O'Connor, who was named the Offensive Player of the Year last season.

O'Connor finished with 816 yards passing, 637 yards rushing and eight total touchdowns. He also led the team in interceptions with six.

Thornock and Wood will be O'Connor's preferred receiving targets this season. The two will take on much larger roles after the departures of Harrington and Robbins.

Culverwell, who had five rushing touchdowns a season ago, will be the team's go-to ball carrier.

Ottley acknowledged there will be "a lot of positions left open by graduation," but he hopes the Lynx will be able to fill those slots and compete for a league championship.

———

THE MEADOWS

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Rod Vollen, first season

2014 record: 10-3 (7-0 Southern, first)

Returning lettermen: 10

Returning starters: Four offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: Odd - 50

Top offensive players: WR Ethan Fridman (Sr.); RB Max Hisatake (Sr.); QB Jack Berkley (Jr.); OL Dominic Pallares (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Max Hisatake (Sr.); FS Ethan Fridman (Sr.); CB Adam Martinez (Jr.); CB Brock Prince (So.); LB Connor Bucknam (Jr.)

Top newcomers: WR/LB Antonio Gutierrez (Jr.); WR/DB Asheesh Chopra (Jr.); DL Thayne Carlson (Sr.); OL/DL Keanush Tafreshi (Sr.); WR/LB Nabeel Afzal (Sr.)

Key losses: OL/DL Mark Woodson; QB Jake Gleason; RB Bryson Navallo; LB Andrew McCall; DB Nathan DeVera; OL/DL Sam Chami; TE/DL Michael Jin; LB Alex Falk

Outlook: The Meadows finished as the state runner-ups last season, thanks to a senior-heavy roster that featured some of Division III's top players.

Overall, the Mustangs lost 10 seniors to graduation, including Woodson (Division III Player of the Year) and Navallo (All-Southern League second team). They also have just one returning starter on the offensive line in Pallares, as Hisatake chose to undergo a position change to running back.

First-year coach Vollen remains optimistic, though, with the return of Fridman and Berkley.

Fridman, who finished with 776 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season, is back as the team's top offensive weapon. His playmaking ability will make Berkley's transition to quarterback much easier.

As a sophomore, Berkley averaged 5.1 yards per carry at running back and ended the season with 871 yards and 14 TDs.

Hisatake will be the anchor on a defense that returned five starters. He looks to lead the team in tackles for the second consecutive season.

Vollen said it will be critical for his veteran players "to play at a high level early, even those undergoing position changes, to get off to a solid start" and that the "younger players must grow up quickly and follow the lead of the veterans."

He believes if the team's quality offseason transitions to the regular season, The Meadows will have a chance to contend for a playoff spot.

———

MOAPA VALLEY

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Brent Lewis, 14th season (117-40)

2014 record: 13-0 (6-0 Sunrise, first)

Returning lettermen: 18

Returning starters: Six offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Wing T/Spread

Base defensive set: 4-4

Top offensive players: WR/RB R.J. Hubert (Sr.); QB Nate Cox (Sr.); TE/WR Jay Mortensen (Sr.); RB Sterling Simmons (Sr.); FB Trystin Deal (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Trystin Deal (Sr.); CB/S R.J. Hubert (Sr.); S Jay Mortensen (Sr.); CB Derek Cope (Sr.); DT/DE Garrett Rose (Sr.); DT/LB Bo Redd (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Zach Hymas; WR Cole Mulcock; RB Kaleb Bodily

Outlook: Realignment may have moved the Pirates from Class 3A to Division I-A in recent years, but whatever they call the classification, Moapa Valley has consistently been one of the state's top teams.

The Pirates have advanced to the state title game in eight of the last nine seasons, claiming three titles, including the I-A crown last season.

Graduation took away key players, including all-state picks Hymas and Mulcock. Hymas passed for 2,159 yards and 26 TDs with just four interceptions, and Mulcock was the team's leading receiver with 62 catches for 1,149 yards and 12 TDs.

But the return of two-way all-state player Hubert gives Moapa Valley a building block. He's an explosive receiver, who had 49 catches for 964 yards and 14 TDs. He may see time at running back this season as the Pirates try to get more touches for their top player.

"R.J. Hubert will play a heavy role in the offense and be a big-time threat to score each time he touches the ball," Lewis said.

Lewis said the team returns three experienced linemen, but the key to the offense may be Cox, who passed for 706 yards and eight TDs with two interceptions last year spelling Hymas. Cox got starting experience when Hymas was out with an injury.

"He will be key to our success," Lewis said.

On defense, Hubert had 71 tackles and six interceptions and will key the secondary, along with Cope, who also picked off six passes.

Rose, who had 54 tackles and 4½ sacks, will anchor the line.

"Our goal every year is to win a state championship, and we feel like with a little luck we have the guys that can compete for another championship," Lewis said.

———

MOJAVE

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: Joe Delgado, fifth season (20-19)

2014 record: 6-3 (4-3 Sunset, fifth)

Returning lettermen: 15

Returning starters: Eight offense, nine defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB Lamaja Cunningham (Sr.); RB Elijah Smoot (Sr.); WR Jaylon Delgado (Sr.); WR Deshone Wilson (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DT Daijon Payno (Sr.); MLB Kaleb Friedman (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR/S Taiwan Braden (Jr.); RB/LB Khalid Walker (Jr.); OL/DL Tui Vergara (Sr.)

Key losses: RB Ty Flanagan; QB Zack Arave; C Frankie Contreras

Outlook: The Rattlers posted a strong record and had the Sunset League's Most Valuable Player in Ty Flanagan yet failed to make the playoffs last season.

Instead, Mojave finished in a five-way tie at 4-3 and missed the postseason because of tiebreakers.

Flanagan, who rushed for 1,266 yards and 16 TDs in earning first-team all-state honors, has graduated and is now playing at Idaho State.

But the Rattlers do return plenty of experience, although not necessarily at the skill positions where they also must replace graduated quarterback Arave.

Cunningham threw just nine passes as a backup last season, but he did rush for 159 yards and two TDs on 20 carries. If he comes along quickly, the Rattlers could be a solid offensive team.

On defense, Payno was a first-team All-Sunset League defensive lineman and should anchor the line again along with Canyon Springs transfer Vergara. Vergara was a second-team All-Northeast League defensive tackle for the Pioneers.

Friedman is a hard-nosed linebacker who made the All-Sunset second team.

Delgado hopes this year's team shows more discipline, stays healthy and stays eligible.

———

MOUNTAIN VIEW

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Raymond LeBoeuf, eighth season

2014 record: 4-5 (3-4 Southern, fifth)

Returning lettermen: 12

Returning starters: Six offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: RB Bernard Williams (Sr.); RB/WR Adam Stacey (Sr.); QB Tyrell Brooks (So.); WR Terrence Brooks (So.)

Top defensive players: LB Stacey (Sr.); DT Micah Wheeler (So.); DE Paul Muehleisen (Sr.)

Key losses: WR/CB Connor LeBoeuf; QB/S Ian Locke; DT/G A.J. Kim

Outlook: Prior to last season, Mountain View had made the playoffs the previous seven seasons and was coming off consecutive state runner-up finishes.

To return to the postseason this year, the Saints will need to find replacements for Connor LeBoeuf and Locke, who together accounted for 3,436 total yards and 20 touchdowns a season ago.

Tyrell Brooks has taken over at quarterback and will get help from playmakers Williams, Stacey and Terrence Brooks.

Stacey is the team's top returning rusher (235 yards, two touchdowns). He also led the team in tackles last season with 77.

Terrence Brooks, the brother of Tyrell, returns as the team's top receiver (132 yards, two TDs).

———

NEEDLES

League: Division III Southern

Head coach: Matt Fromelt, first season

2014 record: 6-4 (4-3 Southern, fourth)

Returning lettermen: 15

Returning starters: Five offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Pro

Base defensive set: 50

Top offensive players: RB Derek Wagstaff (Jr.); WR/QB Trenton Poe-Evans (Sr.); K Mauricio Santos (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DL Ginuen Miller (Sr.); LB Gavin Pletcher (Sr.)

Key losses: QB/TE/DE William Dunn; RB/LB Kobee McCorkle; OL/LB Manny Lewis

Outlook: Needles appeared in its third consecutive postseason a year ago, and the Mustangs appear to be in position for a return trip this season.

Though the Mustangs lost McCorkle, they returned some key players.

Wagstaff, who rushed for 905 yards and nine touchdowns last season, is back as the team's primary offensive weapon.

Santos, who made six field goals last year, also gives the Mustangs a reliable kicking game.

Miller (60 tackles) and Pletcher (51 tackles), both seniors, will lead the defense.

———

PAHRANAGAT VALLEY

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Ken Higbee, 19th season

2014 record: 12-0 (7-0 Southern, first)

Returning lettermen: seven

Returning starters: Three offense, three defense

Base offensive set: Pro

Base defensive set: 3-3-2

Top offensive players: QB Tabor Maxwell (Jr.); RB Brodey Maxwell (So.); WR Shawn Wadsworth (Sr.); WR/RB Christian Higbee (Jr.); TE Ike Taylor (Jr.); RB David Ingram (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Wadsworth (Sr.); LB Higbee (Jr.); CB Taylor (Jr.); DL Mateo Linares (Sr.); CB Cody Stirling (Sr.)

Key losses: RB/LB Wade Leavitt; RB/LB Caleb Hansen; RB/CB Jordan Cryts; C/DL Paden Higbee; OL/DE Utah Ray; DL Austin Horrocks

Outlook: Pahranagat Valley will be looking to extend its nation-best winning streak (81 games) when it meets Wells on Aug. 28.

The Panthers, who have won seven consecutive state titles, appear to be in position for another strong season behind Tabor Maxwell and Wadsworth, who linked up for four touchdowns in the Division IV state final last November against Spring Mountain.

Tabor Maxwell completed 68.3 percent of his passes last season for 2,625 yards and 38 touchdowns. He threw just two interceptions. Wadsworth was the team's best receiver, bringing in 60 receptions for 1,069 yards and 17 scores.

Pahranagat Valley must find a replacement, however, for the do-it-all Leavitt, who accounted for 2,361 yards on offense and led the team in tackles en route to a second-team all-state selection.

Cody Stirling, who finished with 33 tackles a season ago, will be one of the top returning players on defense for the Panthers.

Ken Higbee said: "We have many holes to fill and are looking for our kids to step up and get the job done."

———

PAHRUMP VALLEY

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: Adam Gent, first season

2014 record: 4-5 (3-4 Sunset, seventh)

Outlook: Gent inherits a program that has struggled in recent years, and he'll try to get the Trojans back to the postseason after a two-year drought.

Pahrump Valley was only a gam behind last year's second-place finisher in the Sunset League. But with five teams tied at 4-3, the Trojans ended up in seventh place, well out of the playoff picture. They'll try to build on a 39-27 win over Sierra Vista in last year's season finale.

———

PALO VERDE

League: Division I Southwest

Head coach: Joe Aznarez, first season

2014 record: 7-4 (3-1 Southwest, second)

Returning lettermen: 18

Returning starters: Six offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Double wing/double pistol

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Aaron Chisolm (Sr.); OL Kyler Hack (Sr.); FB Chauntez Thomas (Sr.); OL Edgar Burrola (Jr.); QB Logan Hutchison (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Kameron Toomer (Sr.); DL Kyler Hack (Sr.); LB Chauntez Thomas (Sr.); LB Tyler Thornton (Jr.); LB Max Miller-Hooks (Jr.)

Top newcomers: RB Thaddeus Wiley (Jr.); DB Aaron Belshe (Jr.); LB Tyler Thornton (Jr.); LB Max Miller-Hooks (Jr.)

Key losses: LB/RB Jaren Campbell; OL/DL Joey Laurita; OL/DL; Dan Heller

Outlook: New coach Aznarez inherits a tough job in replacing the only coach Palo Verde has known.

Darwin Rost posted a 154-50 record in 19 seasons at Palo Verde, winning the 2004 state title and five region championships.

But Aznarez will hold the Panthers to the same standards.

"Even with the new coaching change the Panthers at Palo Verde should not skip a beat," Aznarez said.

Aznarez will first have to replace the team's graduated leader, Campbell, who was a second-team all-state linebacker and the team's top rusher and scorer last season.

Thomas looks like the pick to take over the leadership role. He should see more time on offense this season at fullback, and he's back at linebacker after recording 69 tackles and five sacks last season. He was a first-team All-Southwest League pick on defense.

The 6-2, 225-pound Toomer, a UNR commit, is back after recording 42 tackles last season to help lead the defense.

On offense, Aznarez won't abandon Rost's double-wing offense, and Chisolm should be a big part of that offense this season. He was second on the team in rushing last year with 507 yards and four TDs and made the All-Southwest League second team.

The team must replace a pair of strong linemen in Laurita and Heller, but the 6-6, 282-pound Hack is back to anchor the offensive line.

"I think that our group is confident and ready to take the next step," Aznarez said. "We will be physical on defense and continue our power run game with a few wrinkles."

———

QUEST ACADEMY

League: Independent

Head coach: Lance Patterson

2014 record: 2-3

Outlook: Quest Academy, which played in just five games in Division IV a season ago, has already gotten off to a rocky start in 2015.

The Knights recently canceled their season opener with Lincoln County and now must wait one more week to travel to Boulder City for a non-league game.

———

RANCHO

League: Independent

Head coach: Tom Pletsch, first season

2014 record: 0-9

Returning lettermen: 16

Returning starters: Four offense, three defense

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Robert Howard (Sr.); QB Dion Southern (Sr.): RB Javion Mickel (Sr.); WR Jonathan Davis (Sr.)

Top defensive players: OLB Angel Walker (Jr.); MLB Jordan Betts (Jr.); DT Luc Scott (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB Dion Southern (Sr.); RB Javion Mickel (Sr.): RB/LB Marquel Alexander (Jr.); OT Frank Rodriguez (Sr.); NG Loran Jackson (Sr.)

Key losses: OL Kwansi Cooper

Outlook: Pletsch takes over a team at the very bottom, having lost 29 consecutive games.

Over the last three seasons, the Rams have been shut out nine times and opponents have outscored them 1,451-187.

But Pletsch has experience rebuilding programs at Rancho. He took over the baseball program in 2006, and the team played in the state final 2010.

He expects new players to make an immediate impact, and the program has enough players to field teams at all three levels (B, JV and varsity) for the first time since 2011.

Howard rushed for 900 yards and five TDs last season and closed out the year with a 308-yard performance against Del Sol.

He should be a building block on offense along with newcomers Southern and Mickel.

The defense has the most ground to make up, as the Rams allowed an average of 49.7 points last season. And that was better than the previous two seasons.

"The Rams are in the midst of a 29-game losing streak, but the past is just that; the past," Pletsch said. "The Rams look to be competitive in every game this year."

———

ROUND MOUNTAIN

League: Division IV Southern

2014 record: 5-4 (3-4 Southern, fifth)

Outlook: Despite finishing a game over .500 last season, the Knights just missed out on their first playoff appearance since 2012.

Round Mountain lost three of its last four games and went 1-3 at home.

———

SANDY VALLEY

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Brett Kramer, fourth season

2014 record: 6-4 (4-3 Southern, fourth)

Returning lettermen: 12

Returning starters: Four offense, four defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-3, 4-2

Top offensive players: RB Alexis Fajardo (Jr.); RB Logan Shelton (Sr.) TE David Doty (Sr.); C Derek Larsen (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Fajardo (Jr.); LB Nick Dresden (Sr.); DE Nate Miller (So.)

Top special teams players: P Shelton (Sr.); K Fajardo (Jr.)

Key losses: QB/CB Lane Eastham; RB/LB James Rau; RB/DE Garrett Seller; G/NG Derrick Dilley

Outlook: Sandy Valley qualified for the playoffs for the first time in school history last season by capturing the No. 4 seed in the Division IV Southern League.

The Sidewinders, who also are riding two consecutive winning seasons, will have to overcome a difficult schedule in 2015 to return to the postseason, but expectations are high in the Mesquite Valley.

Fajardo will lead the way on both sides of the ball. The junior averaged 10 yards per carry en route to 307 rushing yards and also finished the season with a team-high 68 tackles, including three for a loss.

Shelton has moved from tight end to running back this season and will provide the team with some much-needed leadership. The Sidewinders will need all they can get after losing standout players Eastham and Rau to graduation.

Kramer said it's going to be crucial to, "stay healthy and improve throughout the season while replacing some key seniors from the previous year."

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SHADOW RIDGE

League: Division I Southwest

Head coach: Travis Foster, first season

2014 record: 3-7 (1-3 Southwest, fourth)

Returning lettermen: 16

Returning starters: Four offense, three defense

Base offensive set: Pistol

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Dominick Wilson (Sr.); T Matthew Barnard (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Michael Buyson (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB Kassius Swain (Sr.); RB/DB Amaru Mitchell (Jr.); RB/LB Aubrey Nellems (So.)

Key losses: S Nick Patrick; WR/LB Torrey Graham

Outlook: Foster will look to lean heavily on Wilson, the team's top rusher and scorer last season.

He rushed for 945 yards and nine TDs last season in earning second-team All-Southwest League honors at running back.

"We expect to be one of the top rushing teams in the city," Foster said.

If that happens it would take some of the pressure off the team's defense. The Mustangs struggled to stop opponents last season, allowing an average of 36.5 points. Four opponents topped 50 points against Shadow Ridge last season.

Buyson intercepted a pair of passes last year and returns to lead the secondary, but the team must replace Patrick, who was the team's top defender with 35 solo tackles, three tackles for loss and an interception.

With Wilson leading the way, the Mustangs should be in the mix for a playoff berth.

———

SIERRA VISTA

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: John Foss, third season (9-11)

2014 record: 7-4 (4-3 Sunset, second)

Returning lettermen: 11

Returning starters: Four offense, six defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-25

Top offensive players: RB Daniel Godfrey (Sr.); QB Oscar Aliaga (Jr.)

Top defensive players: CB/FS Javion Hunt (Sr.); DE Jordan Lampkin (Sr.)

Top newcomers: TE/LB Budhatt Kolone (Jr.)

Key losses: FS/RB Maliek Broady; FS/RB Andrew Peterson

Outlook: The Mountain Lions ended a playoff drought last season, making their first postseason appearance since 2008. They even won a playoff game, but returning to the postseason might not be a simple task.

At least six teams appear poised to fight for four playoff spots in the Sunset League, and Sierra Vista lost several key players to graduation.

Broady, a second-team all-state selection last season, will be difficult to replace. He rushed for 1,406 yards and 16 TDs. The team also lost second-leading rusher Peterson (789 yards, 9 TDs).

Godfrey is the leading returning rusher (398 yards, 5 TDs), and Aliaga is back at quarterback after passing for 487 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore.

On defense, Hunt returns to lead the secondary after recording 42 tackles and eight interceptions in earning all-state honors a year ago.

Lampkin (26 tackles, 3 sacks) lends more experience on defense.

Broady (40 tackles, 2 sacks) also will be missed on defense, as will Randal Grimes (50 tackles, 4 interceptions), who transferred to Desert Pines.

Foss's goals for the team are simple: "Make the playoffs, then advance."

———

SILVERADO

League: Division I Northeast

Head coach: Randall Cunningham, first season

2014 record: 3-7 (1-3 Northeast, fourth)

Outlook: With former UNLV and NFL star Cunningham at the helm, there is excitement surrounding the Silverado program.

Cunningham will have to find a replacement for Jarrett Alipio (522 passing yards, 361 rushing yards) and Deyon McKinney (908 rushing yards, 11 TDs), who provided much of the offense last season.

The team also must replace all-state offensive lineman Justin Polu, who is now at UNLV.

Defensive back Vernon Jackson returns to lead the defense after posting 65 tackles last season.

———

SPRING MOUNTAIN

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Aaron Masden

2014 record: 9-3 (6-1 Southern, second)

Key losses: QB/S Edward London; RB/LB Cory Duncan; TE/LB Maurice Stitt

Outlook: For at least the fourth consecutive season, the Golden Eagles remain the biggest threat to Pahranagat Valley's 81-game win streak in eight-man football.

The teams have met in the state championship in each of the past three seasons, and every year, Spring Mountain inches closer and closer. Could it be the year?

———

SPRING VALLEY

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: Marcus Teal, sixth season (20-27)

2014 record: 5-5 (4-3 Sunset, fourth)

Returning lettermen: 17

Returning starters: Five offense, five defense

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-2-5

Top offensive players: WR/QB Antony Vazquez (Sr.); RB/WR Marcus Dawson (Sr.); QB K.C. Moore (Jr.); OL Taevian Jacobs (Sr.); OL Nathan Hunt (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Raheem Edmonds (Sr.); DT Keki Faatiliga (So.); LB Dustin Kekahuna-Kahue (Sr.); DE Dean Balva (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB K.C. Moore (Jr.)

Key losses: QB Christian Tasi; OL/DL Shiloh Fao; TE/DL Drazen Tojic; RB/FS Michael Bianco

Outlook: The Grizzlies entered the final week of the regular season in 2014 with a chance to win a league title. Instead, they finished in a five-way tie for second at 4-3 and wound up in fourth place on tiebreakers.

Teal hopes to vie for the league title again this season, but that may be a difficult task after graduation took nearly half the roster, including several big-name players.

The Grizzlies graduated 19 of 40 players, and Bianco and Tasi, especially, will be difficult to replace.

Bianco was the Sunset League's Defensive MVP and a second-team all-state pick after racking up 107 tackles and six interceptions as a safety. He also was the team's second-leading rusher with 688 yards and five TDs.

Tasi was a first-team All-Sunset quarterback and led the team with 745 rushing yards.

Vazquez saw time at quarterback last season backing up Tasi, but will probably give way to newcomer Moore.

Vazquez also is the top returning receiver, after earning second-team All-Sunset League honors with 11 catches for 132 yards and three TDs.

On defense, Edmonds was a first-team all-league selection who was second on the team with 90 tackles.

"We will be young with a little bit of depth at all positions," Teal said. "Our expectations are to continue to be competitive and challenge for a league title."

———

SUNRISE MOUNTAIN

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Chris Sawyers, second season (1-8)

2014 record: 1-8 (0-6 Sunrise, seventh)

Outlook: There was little to get excited about last season for the Miners, whose only victory was a 21-20 victory over a Rancho team that has dropped 29 straight games.

Sawyers also must replace his top offensive threat in Wanya Callahan, who rushed for 614 yards and four TDs and averaged 8.3 yards per carry last season.

———

TONOPAH

League: Division IV Southern

Head coach: Duffy Otteson, seventh season

2014 record: 4-5 (2-5 Southern, sixth)

Returning lettermen: 11

Returning starters: Two offense, two defense

Base offensive set: Wing

Base defensive set: 4-4

Top newcomers: DL Jordon Birkowitze (Jr.)

Key losses: QB/DB Connor Friel; TE/DE Jimmy Withers; RB/LB Jeb Ayers; OL/DL Ian Guthridge

Outlook: Tonopah fell just short of the .500 mark last season before missing the playoffs for the first time since 2010.

The Muckers will be young this season and will need to fill the void of last season's top offensive (Friel) and defensive (Ayers) players.

Despite having only three seniors on the roster, Otteson said his players "will work hard to be competitive," and will use everything they learned this summer at camp to play "hard-nosed football."

———

VALLEY

League: Division I Northeast

Head coach: George Baker, first season

2014 record: 0-9 (0-4 Northeast, fifth)

Base offensive set: Pistol spread

Base defensive set: Multiple

Outlook: Baker takes over a team that hasn't made the playoffs since 2011 and has won just four games in the last three seasons.

He's looking to change the attitude in the program and "flip the script."

"It takes time to instill and nurture a new culture in a football program," Baker said. "Our 2015 goals are to be "Triple R," respected, relevent and relentless."

———

VIRGIN VALLEY

League: Division I-A Sunrise

Head coach: Yori Ludvigson, second season (4-5)

2014 record: 4-5 (2-4 Sunrise, sixth)

Returning lettermen: 19

Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense

Base offensive set: Multiple, spread

Base defensive set: 5-3, Even

Top offensive players: RB Kai Mitchell (Sr.); RB/WR Josh Rogers (Sr.); RB/WR Cody Jones (Sr.); WR Diego Burriel (Sr.); WR Marcello Lara (Sr.); WR Jarron Linge (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Tony Urias (Sr.); DE Chase Henderson (Jr.); DB Zach Barnum (Sr.); DL Arden Bundy (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB Hogan Fowles (Jr.); WR/DB Jaret Tietjen (Jr.); LB/WR Trevan Hallinghead (So.); LB Jayden Perkins (So.)

Key losses: RB/LB Junior Paongo; OL Brandon Haun; TE/DE Keegan Biasi

Outlook: The Bulldogs will lean on an experienced offensive line as they try to make a run for the playoffs.

Virgin Valley will have five senior starters on the offensive line in tackles Jairo Vallejos and Mikian Musser, guards Jaden Hollingshead and Merlin Hafen, and center Garret Hafen.

That experience could help make up for lack of experience among skill players, especially in the running game, where the team must replace leading rusher Paongo.

When the Bulldogs were good last season, they were very good, scoring 40 or more points in three of four wins. When they were bad, well, they were bad. They scored seven points or fewer in four of the five losses and allowed 40 or more three times.

"We should have a solid football team," Ludvigson said. "Our region is loaded with Desert Pines, Moapa Valley, Chaparral, etc. I think we have a chance to be in the mix."

———

WESTERN

League: Division I-A Sunset

Head coach: John Norton, first season

2014 record: 0-9 (0-7 Sunset, eighth)

Returning lettermen: Eight

Returning starters: Three offense, three defense

Base offensive set: Multiple pro

Base defensive set: Multiple pro

Top offensive players: QB Greg Castenada (Sr.); OL Javohn Moore (Sr.); OL Maurese Williams (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Jamil Gonzalez (Sr.)

Outlook: New coach Norton has made several stops as a college assistant, but he's probably never faced a task quite like rebuilding Western's program.

The Warriors haven't made the postseason since 2007 and have technically lost 25 straight games. Their last win was a forfeit against Shadow Ridge on Aug. 31 of 2012. Their last win on the field came on Nov. 5, 2010.

Last year's team scored just 53 points. The Warriors allowed more than that in six games.

Norton knows things won't turn around overnight.

"We look to field a competitive football program that provides a solid foundation for the future of Western football," Norton said.

———

WHITE PINE

League: Division III Southern

2014 record: 3-6 (2-5 Southern, sixth)

Top offensive players: WR Cody Bennett (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Monty Moore; RB Drue Ashby

Outlook: White Pine surrendered four 50-point games a season ago, while giving up an average of 34.9 points per game.

The Bobcats also were shut out on four occasions, so both sides of the ball need to improve in order to give the team a shot at the playoffs.

White Pine lost two of its biggest offensive weapons in Moore and Ashby, but they returned Bennett, who should be the team's go-to receiver.

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