Wednesday, August 27, 2003

By Paul Zeise and Ken Mrazik, Post-Gazette Sports Writers

TEAM TO BEAT

Duquesne -- The Dukes are usually fast, talented and blessed with athletes, and this year is no exception. The offensive line is a question, but Coach Pat Monroe usually finds a way to mold a solid unit capable of opening holes for his stable of running backs. The team will have to replace 2,000-yard rusher Windell Brown, but two juniors -- Courtney Dunn (438 yards rushing, 3 TDs) and Shane Brooks (311, 3,) -- and sophomore Layton Dunn (584, 4 ) are capable of big seasons. Tight end/defensive back Ty Barlow (6 catches, 146 yards) also returns, as does quarterback Shawntez Bryant (874 yards, 11 TDs). The Dukes face a stiff test at Sharon in their opener but likely will be favored in every other game.

CONTENDERS

Brentwood -- The Spartans must also replace a 2,000-yard rusher (Ryan Mendel) but they are strong along both lines and have an experienced quarterback in junior Andy Lauterbauch (736 yards and 14 TDs).

Springdale -- Last year, the Dynamos made the playoffs for the first time since 1973. This year, they should make it two in a row. Tight end/defensive end Lucas Cox (6-5, 250) has offers from several Division I schools.

THE OTHERS

Wilkinsburg -- Lost a number of key players, but return multi-talented Ray Coleman (291 yards receiving, 343 rushing).

Clairton -- The Bears had a winning conference record last year and hope to at least duplicate the feat.

Riverview -- With 18 returning starters, the Raiders are a darkhorse to win the conference.

Leechburg -- Guard Shawn Voyten (6-4, 230) is one of the top linemen in the conference.

Serra -- The Eagles were 0-9 last season but have 15-starters returning, including four of five offensive linemen.

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Lucas Cox, Springdale (TE-DE, 6-5, 250, Sr.); Courtney Dunn, Duquesne (RB-LB, 5-11, 200, Jr.); Ty Barlow, Duquesne (TE-LB, 6-2, 215, Sr.); Raymond Coleman (WR-DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.); Teron Allen, Clairton (FB-LB, 5-11, 222, Sr.).

GAME OF THE YEAR

Brentwood at Duquesne, Oct. 4.

BEST BANDS

Serra, Leechburg.

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