DENIS BARDASHEVSKIY
RB, Elk River
A successful running back in Elk River's wing-T offense must be patient while moving fast, a strange combination Bardashevskiy mastered as last season progressed. He posted more than 1,900 yards as Elk River reached the section final. The Elks are making state plans this fall and Bardashevskiy embodies their desire to improve. He added 15 pounds while clocking faster times in the 100-meter dash last spring during track season.
KAI BARBER
RB/LB, Totino-Grace
You can find Barber practicing at times with the defensive linemen and tight ends, a tribute to his overall football sense and attention to detail. But his best work is done at running back and linebacker for the Eagles. A powerful athlete with good speed, Barber will help carry the load early on for an Eagles team wracked by injuries.
MATT MEIDTKE
QB, Osseo
Osseo coach Derrin Lamker, a former quarterback himself, was encouraged by Miedtke's performance in fall practice. Boasting athletic ability that made him a regular on Osseo's basketball team last winter, Miedtke should become one of the top statistical leaders in the conference while helping Osseo add some balance to its recent run-heavy attack.
D'AIREUS MOCK
RB, Columbia Heights
Mock, a shifty runner with good speed, posted a strong sophomore season. He rushed for 1,104 yards and six touchdowns and teamed with quarterback David Dixon to provide a strong 1-2 punch. Hylanders coach Matt Townsend said Mock looks more confident this season and expects good things. "He is strong and can go through tackles but speed is his best asset," Townsend said. "He gets to the edge pretty quickly."
EMMANUAL EHRICH
LB, Maple Grove
Crimson coach Matt Lombardi, who directed former Wayzata linebackers A.J. Tarpley and Grant Olson, considers Ehrich in the same class. "He's a special player who is a real leader for us," Lombardi said. "He's a physical specimen that can bench 300 pounds, squat 500 pounds and jump 36 inches. He loves the game and in our scrimmages against Lakeville North, Totino-Grace, Stillwater and Rochester Mayo, he was all over the place."
David La Vaque