Classic Suburban preview

Article by: RON HAGGSTROM , Star Tribune
Updated: August 30, 2007 - 12:44 AM

St. Thomas Academy became the first school other than Mahtomedi to win the conference title outright last year since it formed in 2001. The Cadets are now the favorites to garner back-to-back league championships, also only accomplished by Mahtomedi. The Zephyrs and Tartan are the logical choices to possibly prevent the feat from happening in 2007.

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(In predicted order of finish)

St. Thomas Academy Cadets

Coach: Dave Ziebarth, fifth year

The lowdown: The Cadets will seek a return a trip to the Prep Bowl by utilizing their speed. Senior Fritz Waldvogel (5-8, 160) is small but makes a big impact. He led the team in rushing and receiving during last year's state runner-up finish. St. Thomas Academy will be young up front on both sides of the ball as well as in the secondary.

Tartan Titans

Coach: Darin Glazier, second year

The lowdown: Senior QB Sam Ryan and RB Jordan Johnson make up one of the best backfield tandems in the metro area. Junior Marc Sonnen gives Ryan an excellent target at WR. The play up front and the defensive unit will determine Tartan's fate.

Mahtomedi Zephyrs

Coach: Dave Muetzel, first year

The lowdown: The Zephyrs defense, headed by Division I recruit senior LB Matt Groff (6-2, 215), will be quick to the ball. Muetzel welcomes back five starters on both sides of the ball.

Simley Spartans

Coach: Ray Betton, third year

The lowdown: Simley had its first nonlosing season (4-4) in conference play in 2006. It will look to have its first winning season this year. The Spartans will be much better defensively with seven starters coming back. Senior RB/SS Michael Hunter (6-0, 178) will play a huge role for Betton's squad.

Richfield Spartans

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DID YOU KNOW? • Tartan and Mahtomedi are expected to challenge St. Thomas Academy for the league crown, but they don't play each other. The Cadets face both teams on the road. • Senior running back Jordan Johnson of Tartan rushed for 1,197 yards a year ago. He needs 1,497 yards in his final season to surpass the school record (3,083 yards) held by Gophers running back Jay Thomas.