1

Vernon Vikings*

8-1

Will go to states (7 or 8 seed in N1G4) for first time since 2005 as long as they do not lose more than once. Twice...probably no states. The team is senior-heavy.

2

Lenape Valley Patriots*

7-2

Coach Smolyn knows how to win...look for the Patriots to find a replacement for Groome quickly. Will be going to N1G2 states as a 3-5 seed.

2

Newton Braves*

7-2

The Braves are going to surprise many teams. Led by QB Gresik and gang, Newton will see states this year. Look for them to land a 3-5 seed as well in N1G2.

4

Pope John Lions*

6-3

Pope John is a very young team. Returning arguably the best RB in the league in Delaney is a huge plus, but will that help the experience factor? The Lions will make states as a 6-8 seed in NPG3.

5

Jefferson Falcons

5-4

The Falcons surprised many people last year, especially after beating Vernon and Sparta, and giving the Lions a run for their money. This year, they should be able to stay competitive in the games they lose. Jefferson will be close to states; if they get in, they are looking at an 8 seed in N1G2 if they can win a few close games.

6

Sparta Spartans

4-5

Coach Shea returns to the Spartans. He is a proven winner, but this year's Spartans will need to prove a lot before joining the elite again. Sparta will lose a few heartbreakers this year, which will prevent them from going to states.

6

High Point Wildcats

4-5

High Point will continue to show improvement within the program. It will be refreshing to the Wildcats back at the top, but this year's version is still a year or 2 from getting there.

8

Wallkill Valley Rangers

2-7

The struggle of the Rangers will soon end...just not this year. A new football coach should help turn things around at Wallkill Valley. Expect the Rangers, who return a number of skilled positions, to be in most games this year.

9

Kittatinny Cougars

1-8

Dream season is over. The Cougars will be one of the least experienced teams in the league, losing a lot of key components of their championship team.

9

Hopatcong Chiefs

1-8

The Chiefs will continue to struggle a bit. Hopatcong should be able to pick a win up this year, but look for a break out season in 2009 and/or 2010.