TEAM TO BEAT:

Gateway: Gators have two of the top seniors in the WPIAL in fullback-defensive end Shayne Hale and running back-defensive back Cam Saddler, and two of the top juniors in running back-linebacker Dorian Bell and receiver-defensive back Corey Brown. Sophomore QB Rob Kalkstein started as a freshman. A key will be defense, which was not good at times last season.

CONTENDERS:

Penn Hills: Indians must rebuild an offensive line from the WPIAL finalist of a year ago. Junior quarterback Tom Fulton showed plenty of promise as a sophomore. D.J. Wilds is a talented receiver and defensive back.

Woodland Hills: It seems strange for Woodland Hills not to be ranked in WPIAL top five, but this is the most inexperienced team (one returning starter) Coach George Novak has had. Noah Taylor, a senior tight end-defensive end and the younger brother of the Miami Dolphins' Jason Taylor, shows promise.

THE OTHERS

Kiski Area: QB Josh Vick, recovered from knee surgery, threw for 1,147 yards in five games last year before the injury.

Plum: QB Kyle Simmons is one to watch after going 105 of 204 for 1,399 yards last season.

Fox Chapel: Foxes are 5-35 over past four seasons, but a passing game with QB Joe Donahoe and receiver Mike Carlino (45 catches last year) give hope for improvement.

-- By Mike White