Bigger schools bring better talent to conference

Coach: Bill Rosburg.

2010 record: 2-7.

• The plus side of being a new school will be evident this fall. In its third year, Chanhassen can throw out a lineup stocked with three-year stalwarts. Linebacker Nathan Holasek and running back Maverick Edmunds are two such players, strong and fast and seeking the fruits sown in the previous two lean years.

Coach: Lambert Brown.

2010 record: 4-6.

• The defense will be forced to carry much of the load as the offense has a new set of skill position players to break in. Having played in six games in 2010, quarterback Nick Jensen has the most experience handling the ball.

Coach: Mark Froehling.

• A ball-hawking defense with six starters back from 2010 will give Froehling and his Farmington coaching staff a chance to develop a raw offensive line. If he gets the time he needs, quarterback Darren Beenken has a nice pair of targets to throw to in receivers Austin Bassett and Nathan Graham.

Coach: Ray Betton.

2010 record: 4-6.

• The smallest school in the Missota will field the biggest offensive line. Including tight end Brett Pierce, five of the six starters up front weigh 255 pounds or more, a nice luxury for new QB Sam Keis. Pierce is better known as a defensive end, where his size (6-5, 255) and speed have resulted in at least two Division I offers.

Coach: Jim Benick.

• Athleticism always has been a trademark of New Prague and this year is no exception. The Trojans have exceptional athletes in RB/DB Zach Shetka, FB/LB Jake Molitor and two-way lineman Jake Meyer. But a lack of depth is worrisome, as many of the Trojans' top players are expected to play both ways.

Coach: Bubba Sullivan.

2010 record: 8-3.

• With a hardcore rebuilding project ahead -- 31 seniors graduated -- the Raiders benefit from a favorable schedule, playing four of the Missota's tougher teams at home. The offense will be on firmer footing than the defense, thanks to three returning linemen, including big, physical tackle Max Weaver.

Coach: Matt Schultz.

• Things are looking up for a program that has won only seven times in the past six years. QB Joel Newman is a three-year starter who should thrive if he gets time to throw to bevy of quality receivers. That's a big if, though, because questions surround the offensive line.

Coach: Jody Stone.

2010 record: 9-1.

• The Sabers imposed their will on opponents in 2010, winning their first nine games and averaging more than 40 points per game. That team graduated 17 seniors, so the production surely will drop off, but the talent pool is deep. Linebacker Nick McBeain is a tackling machine.

JIM PAULSEN

1. Shakopee

2. Northfield

3. Holy Angels

4. Chanhassen

5. New Prague

7. Chaska