TEAM TO BEAT:

Ford City: The Sabers are 36-10 the past four seasons and should be strong again. Some key players graduated, but RB Carter Haponski (577 yards rushing) is back. Robert Law was an all-conference lineman.

CONTENDERS:

Shady Side Academy: Seven starters return on offense and six on defense from a team that won four of its last five games last season. Lineman Mike Farrell (6-7, 285) is a Division I college prospect, and senior Dan Rooney is in his third season as the starting QB.

Kittanning: The offensive and defensive lines should be solid with Chris Shepard and all-conference pick Tyler Burns.

Burrell: Quarterback Seth Napierkowski, fullback Frank Gigler and receiver Steve Yakopec highlight eight returning offensive starters.

THE OTHERS:

Freeport: The Yellowjackets have only four starters back on offense and two on defense.

Valley: Coach Troy Hill has only four returning starters from a playoff team in 2006.

Northgate: New coach Mike Pipak has only four seniors on the roster.

Deer Lakes: The Lancers were 2-7 last season, but new coach Todd Hazlett inherits 10 senior starters.

West Shamokin: The Wolves are 4-25 since joining the WPIAL, but coach Shawn Liotta feels his team will be more competitive this season with seven starters returning on both offense and defense.

-- By Chris Adamski