TEAM TO BEAT:

Upper St. Clair: Defending WPIAL and PIAA champion was hurt by graduation. Coach Jim Render will rely on one of the few key returning players, senior running back/linebacker Grant Serdy. Also back is senior receiver Adam Chrissis (5-10, 190). QB is a question mark with senior Shane Brennan, junior Mike Shogry and sophomore Alex Park fighting for playing time.

CONTENDERS

McKeesport: Senior James Eckels gets his first turn running the triple option at quarterback. Senior running back Marvase Byrd (1,000 yards rushing last year) also will be a catalyst.

Canon-McMillan: Senior quarterback Zane Zebrasky is a good one, Sophomores Michael Hull (6-1, 207) and Chad Hagan (6-1, 200) both rushed for more than 400 yards as freshmen.

THE OTHERS

Bethel Park: Junior tailback Lyle Marsh could rack up some yards, while seniors Dan Buckley and Jordan Reynolds will lead the defense.

Mt. Lebanon: The Blue Devils return an experienced bunch, led by senior linemen Sam Goldberg (6-0, 270) and J.C. Rucker (6-3, 265). QB is a question mark.

Baldwin: New coach Dan Pallante will rely on senior quarterback Jeff Joyce (1,144 yards passing last year) and senior running back Ian Wild.

-- By Colin Dunlap