high schools

(In predicted order of finish)

Farmington Tigers

Coach: Mark Froehling, eighth year

The lowdown: Farmington hasn't lost a conference game in two years, and some think it won't lose again in 2007. It will have good team speed at the skill positions and has solid returning starters at a variety of positions, including special teams.

Hutchinson Tigers

Coach: Andy Rostberg, ninth year

The lowdown: Don't expect the Tigers to go to the air very often. They return their two leading rushers in seniors Corey Shufelt and Brian Renkes.

New Prague Trojans

Coach: Tony Buthe, 12th year

The lowdown: Buthe is hoping to lead his squad on a third consecutive state tournament trip. New Prague will be young and inexperienced after being hit hard by graduation. Two-way senior starters WR/DE Brad Weiers (6-6, 220) and RB/LB Nick Zweber (5-11, 200) will have to provide leadership.

Holy Angels Stars

Coach: Mike Smalley, third year

The lowdown: As the offensive line improves, so will the Stars. They will have four rookie linemen who will have to mature quickly. It will be just the opposite on defense, where they will have a veteran group. Senior DE Brendan Kelly (6-6, 234), a Gophers recruit, will head the charge.

Prior Lake Lakers

Coach: Matt Gegenheimer, second year

The lowdown: Gegenheimer's emphasis in his first year was defense, and it paid off. That will be the key again this season, as the Lakers have only seven returning starters.

Northfield Raiders

Coach: Bubba Sullivan, 19th year

The lowdown: The Raiders lack experience, especially on offense, and that is not a good situation in this hard-nosed conference. Sullivan will count on his physical defensive unit, led by seniors Cory Callahan (6-2, 280, T) and Josh Samuels (6-3, 210, SS) and junior Cole Jirik (6-4, 210, TE).

Red Wing Wingers

Coach: Kevin Horvat, first year

The lowdown: A new coach and a change of philosophy are in place. The Wingers will try to control the ball with a punishing ground attack. The defensive unit will go from a 4-3 front to a 3-5 look.

Shakopee Sabers

Coach: Jody Stone, second year

The lowdown: The Sabers will look to improve their offensive attack after being shut out in more than half of their games last year.