2013 Preseason Top 25 high school football early contenders

Prom, graduation and the conclusion of spring sports all mean one thing: It's nearly football season.

Even more than in previous years, traditional power states for high school football like California, Florida and Texas will be well-represented in the preseason national rankings, as will emerging power Georgia.

With high school football kicking off in just more than two months, here's a look at some of the nation's top teams.

Be sure to check back throughout June to see in-depth previews of each Top 25 team.



No. 25 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: The confluence of immaculate facilities, top-notch coaching and a population boom in the Las Vegas area have turned Bishop Gorman into a year-in, year-out powerhouse. In 2013, the program's depth will be tested, as it graduated four-year starter Anu Solomon and dismissed prized running back Nathan Starks. Randall Cunnigham Jr. was one of the best backups in the country last year. He's a physical specimen with obvious pedigree. With Nick Gates, Zack Singer and Alize Jones, the offensive line will be especially strong. Jones is part of a 2015 group that looks very talented.

Question marks: Not only did the team lose Starks unexpectedly, but the team also lost senior Isaiah Nacua, a BYU commit who moved to Utah for his senior season. Those are two big holes to fill. Luckily, talent runs deep for the Gaels, who will likely turn to senior Daniel Stewart, who rushed for 500 yards and four touchdowns last season. Even without Nacua, the defensive line should be solid. However, the linebackers will be largely untested outside of Kenyan Coker. Another rigorous schedule will also test this team.

Outlook: This program is built for yearly success and has the foundation to accomplish it. The 2013 Gaels are talented and have great potential, but are unproven in several areas. Cunningham will be fine behind center and line play will be strong. If a playmaker or two emerges on offense, an undefeated season is not out of the question.
{PAGEBREAK}24. University (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: By season's end last year, there was hardly a better team in Florida than University. Numerous playmakers return from that team, including junior running back Jordan Scarlett and sophomore receiver Sam Bruce, whose stock skyrocketed up after his play this spring. Both are among the top players at their position in their respective classes. Additionally, the transfer circuit was kind to the Suns, who picked up quarterback Sean White, linebacker Richard Yeargin and three other players.

Question marks: Linebacker Skai Moore was the heart and soul of the defense last year. Even with the arrival of Yeargin, he will be difficult to replace, as will fellow linebackers Nick Internicola and Jalen Battle. Jordan Cunningham, now at Vanderbilt, accounted for more than 800 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. His production will be missed. The secondary showed some holes in the team's spring game and will likely be another area that head coach Roger Harriott keeps his eye on as fall approaches.



Outlook: Opening with a talented Homestead team will be a major challenge for University and could be indicative of the type of season it will have. This season, it will see Manatee, Glades Central and Miami Central in the regular season. There's no doubt it will be battle-tested come playoff time, where it will likely need to get through Booker T. Washington in Class 4A.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 23 Long Beach Poly (Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: There's a good chance that Poly is improved on both sides of the ball from a squad that nearly captured the Division I CIF Bowl Game. No team will have a more talented secondary that the Jackrabbitts, who feature blue-chip recruits John Smith and Iman Marshall, two of the top recruits in their respective classes. The team's defensive line should also be very good, led by Jason Fao, who begins his fourth year on the school's varsity squad. Omari Lyles should thrive at running back, given the opportunity. At nearly every position, Poly will be talented and athletic.

Question marks: In the offseason, starting quarterback Eban Jackson transferred to Narbonne. It stings, but it's not an insurmountable loss for Poly, which feels comfortable with Tai Tiedemann lining up behind center. He filled in admirably last year. Even with Smith doubling as a receiver, Poly could use another game-changing offensive weapon. With an entirely new backfield, there may be some growing pains, for which Poly's schedule will not allow.

Outlook: Lest we forget, this Poly squad defeated Mission Viejo, St. John Bosco and Mater Dei in consecutive weeks last year to win the Pac-5 title after starting the season 1-3 including a blowout loss to Narbonne. If Poly picks up where it left off last year, it has a great chance to play for another Bowl Game -- and perhaps a national title. With expectations high, it can ill afford another slow start.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 22 Northwestern (Rock Hill, S.C.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Northwestern has one of the most elaborate -- and potent -- passing schemes in the country. Justin Worley flourished in the system run by then-offensive coordinator Kyle Richardson. Now the team's head coach, Richardson turns to BCS recruit Mason Rudolph to lead the team's "Air Raid" offense. In his third season as the team's starting quarterback, Rudolph can probably guide the offense in his sleep. He'll have receivers Dupree Hart and Mustafia Love back. With seven starters returning on defense, Northwestern has a great shot to play in its fifth state title game in six seasons.

Question marks: Northwestern is not loaded with elite skill players like many teams on the list. At times last season, Northwestern's defense was its Achilles heel: it was unable to get big stops against Byrnes and gave up a nine-point lead in the team's other regular season loss to South Pointe. With Brayon McCoy, Corey Seargant and Jacquavious MacKey, the secondary should be very good. Can the rest of the defense play to its potential?



Outlook: While Northwestern has the look of the state's top team to begin the year, we'll find out pretty early on who is the top dog in the Palmetto State. Northwestern opens with Gaffney and plays Byrnes three weeks later. If it emerges unscathed from that in-state gauntlet, expect it to rise up the rankings.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 21 Paramus Catholic (N.J.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Paramus Catholic's most obvious strong point is Jabrill Peppers, the team's unquestioned leader, the top recruit from New Jersey in more than a decade and the most exciting high school football player in America. But the Paladins are much more than a one-man show. The team that defeated Bergen Catholic and St. Joseph Regional last year returns quarterback Steve Shanley and a big offensive line led by Juwann Bushell-beatty, Billy Ray Mitchell and Alec Bowman. Tyrone Washington and Najee Clayton are also playmakers for head coach Chris Partridge's offense. Led by Nick Flores, eight starters return on defense, including Peppers, who roams the secondary.

Question marks: This team finished strong and with resilience last year. It came from behind to defeat Bergen Catholic in dramatic fashion and handed St. Joseph Regional its only loss in a see-saw affair. Still, the team was defeated handily by traditional power Don Bosco Prep, 31-8. That's a hump that the Paladins still need to clear. Though the team is balanced and deep, any injury to Peppers would be a major blow on both sides of the ball.

Outlook: With a beefed-up schedule, Paramus Catholic is making a clear play to elevate itself even higher on the national radar. It hits the road to take on Ohio power St. Ignatius and will also face Gilman and Friendship Collegiate. Add that to an in-state menu that features Bergen Catholic, St. Joseph Regional and Don Bosco Prep, and Paramus Catholic has a schedule that could have it in the thick of a national title race.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 20 DeMatha (Hyattsville, Md.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: This season has been circled on the proverbial calendars for DeMatha fans for several years, as its much-ballyhooed 2014 class will finally be seniors. The Stags have talent and experience at nearly every position. Quarterback John Lovett returns alongside receivers Cam Phillips and Chris Jones. Mark Allen and Taiwan Deal will run behind the likes of Brock Ruble. Defensively, linebacker Spencer Kleinrichert is back, as are defensive ends Deonte Holden and sophomore Shane Simmons, who has all the makings of the next elite recruit for head coach Elijah Brooks.

Question marks: On paper, DeMatha is loaded, but can it beat arch-nemesis Good Counsel? It hasn't happened since 2010, and even in that season, Good Counsel exacted revenge in the WCAC title game. DeMatha exorcised some demons in the playoffs last year, snapping a four-game losing streak to Gonzaga by winning 40-27. The team was talented last year, but fell short of reaching its goals. Is it prepared to take the next step this season?

Outlook: Buoyed by a promising sophomore group and experienced senior leadership, this can be the year DeMatha wins the WCAC for the first time in Brooks' tenure. Its biggest hurdles could be mental.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 19 Folsom (Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery




Strengths: Jake Browning had an unprecedented debut as a sophomore, throwing for 10 touchdown passes in his first varsity start. The fact that he's back is reason enough for Folsom fans to be optimistic, but he brings with him seven other returning starters on offense, including receivers Troy Knox, Rodney Ellison and Jake Morgado. Running back Bailey Laolagi is another key returner, as he went for 793 yards and 13 scores last year while also keeping defenses honest. Eddie Flores, the team's second-leading tackler a year ago, is back for his senior season. Laolagi doubles as a linebacker.

Question marks: Despite returning six starters on defense, there are still big shoes to fill, particularly with the loss of linebackers Chaz Arnold and Derek Stiles, who combined for more than 150 tackles. Despite some impressive point totals to begin the 2012 season, the question that faces Folsom each fall is how quickly its offense can click. Over the last three seasons, Folsom's record is only 2-2 in August games. Granted, both losses were at the hands of another NorCal powerhouse, Grant. But the point remains that offensive rhythm can be hard to cultivate early on for any team, let alone one that relies on the precision of Folsom's air attack.

Outlook: For as strong as Folsom should be this fall, the Bulldogs could be even better next year, a scary proposition for Sac-Joaquin Section foes. To play for a CIF Bowl Game, which it did in 2011, Folsom will likely need to get past De La Salle, which prevailed easily, 49-15, when the teams met last December.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 18 Bellevue (Wash.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Bellevue had a similar season in many regards to national champion John Curtis last year: a perennial power that had a magical campaign. Regression can be expected in 2012, but programs like Bellevue don't fall off too far, especially with the likes of Bishard "Budda" Baker returning. Baker is an electrifying athlete who will likely share carries with senior Max Richmond and junior Mustafa Branch. He'll share carries with Timmy Haehl, who takes over at quarterback and should manage the offense admirably. He already has an offer from Idaho. Both lines should be above average, even for Bellevue standards. The defensive line, with Marcus Griffin and Shane Bowman, looks especially formidable.

Question marks: The Wolverines have some major uncertainty at linebacker after losing Myles Jack, Sean Constantine and Michael Carlson. Jack will be missed for his offensive prowess as well. What also remains to be seen is how quickly Bellevue's impressive young talent develops. Its 2015 and 2016 classes are loaded with BCS prospects. However, very few saw significant action last season. Their development will be critical in Bellevue's continued success.

Outlook: Bellevue has certainly proved it's willing to take on some of the top teams in the country. However, it was unable to secure a major out-of-state game for 2013. It opens its season against defending 4A state champion Skyline, which could prove to be its stiffest competition of the season.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 17 Apopka (Fla.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Video courtesy AH Media
Strengths: While the team's premier recruits reside on offense, Apopka's defense will be the strength of this year's team. With 10 returning starters, the defense should be much improved from a unit that was very productive in the playoffs, save for the 50 points it allowed in a 53-50 victory over Cypress Bay in the Class 8A finals. Featuring Anthony Ellis, Isaiah Beuhler, Eric Jackson and Shardell Blackshear, the defensive line will be punishing. Ben Bascom and J.J. Simmons return in the secondary. Standout quarterback Zach Darlington returns behind center. A second team all-state pick, he's a major asset back for the Blue Darters. Martez Ivey will move outside to protect Darlington. He's the No. 6 overall recruit in the Class of 2015, according to 247Sports.

Question marks: While Apopka did capture the Class 8A title last year, it may not have even ranked among the state's Top 5 teams by season's end. It lost two of its first three games to begin the season. A similar start this fall would be disappointing to say the least. Diminutive running back Jevric Blocker won't be impossible to replace, but someone will need to step up and fill his role. For all of Ivey's high praise, he wasn't the best lineman on the team last year. That honor belonged to first team all-state pick Dazzie Morris, who has since graduated.



Outlook: Apopka will be tested with an interesting out-of-state matchup against Byrnes. It should enter as the favorite. But defeating Byrnes, which has been one of the country's top programs over the last five seasons, would still be a major feat. It should also be favored to repeat as Class 8A champion. However, that road could go through Plant once again.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 16 St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: After a disappointing 2011 season that ended with a 6-3 loss to Dwyer, St. Thomas Aquinas reasserted itself in 2012 with a Class 7A title run that featured a stunning 35-18 victory over then No. 1-ranked Manatee. Numerous key players return from that squad, led by running back Madre London and receiver Corey Holmes. Nick Linder is the leader of a big, nasty offensive line. Anthony Moten, a Florida commit, is a key asset on defense. Reigning National Freshman of the Year Nicholas Bosa should blossom even more as a sophomore. He'll thrive under the tutelage of the team's new defensive coordinator, Bill Tierney, a key cog in Don Bosco Prep's 2009 national championship team.

Question marks: John O'Korn, the quarterback who guided the team's offense last fall, will not be easy to replace. Wade Freebeck, who spent last season at Western, looks like he could be the starter, but he'll have to earn it. The secondary returns only Al Harris but has several young players who appear ready to step into starting roles. The team's linebackers were a highly senior-driven unit last year. As such, they will be largely inexperienced to begin 2013.

Outlook: Aquinas opens with a matchup that South Florida football fans have been dreaming of for a long time: a showdown against Northwestern (Miami). The large crowd and postseason-caliber intensity will be a great test.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 15 DeSoto (Texas) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Typically, this category is reserved for DeSoto's high-octane offense. But in 2013, the team's strong point could be its defense. According to head coach Claude Mathis, the team's defensive line will be the strongest that he's had. That unit features massive defensive tackle Bryce English. Only a junior, he's already committed to Texas. Shaquel Jackson will once again line up alongside him. A speedy group of linebackers and a defensive secondary led by Nick Orr are other reasons for optimism. Perhaps the biggest factor in DeSoto's success this year will be the play of quarterback Desmon White. He's back after accounting for nearly 5,000 total yards as a junior.

Question marks: Ohio State signee Dontre Wilson is nearly impossible to replace. However, look for Jatory Sparks-brown to surprise people this fall. The team's offensive line needs to be retooled, but that's nothing new at DeSoto. Taylor Young, the Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year, also leaves big shoes to fill.

Outlook: DeSoto has dispelled any and all myths that it's a collection of talented players who fold under pressure. This team hammered Coppell and defeated Southlake Carroll before running into the buzzsaw that was Allen last year. With a highly successful quarterback, a loaded defensive line and young, emerging playmakers, DeSoto will be a fixture on the national scene for 2013 and beyond.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 14 Hamilton (Chandler, Ariz.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery




Strengths: Line play has been a staple of Hamilton football for years, and 2013 will be no different. Former USC commit Casey Tucker, ranked No. 152 in the 247Sports Top 247, is the next great tackle to emerge from Hamilton. Bryce Holland, already committed to Army, is another key lineman. Salvador Lopez also saw some starting action a year ago. Qualen Cunningham, another top-notch recruit, powers the defensive line while junior Caleb Peart and sophomore Garrett Rand are standouts in their respective classes. Derek Andersen was expected to start last year before blowing out his knee. Put simply, the defensive line might be even more impressive than its offensive counterpart.

Question marks: Head coach Steve Belles believes that Sam Sasso will debut as the team's starter at quarterback. He was impressive in limited action a year ago but is largely unproven. Despite returning most of the secondary, losing standout Cole Luke will be difficult to overcome. The offensive line will open up some gaping holes, but the Huskies still need a reliable running back to emerge. It could use more offensive weapons to complement Izzy Simpson and Elijah Williams.

Outlook: Despite the question marks at the skill positions, Steve Belles is not concerned. With the way he runs the program, players will step up, emerge and fill those spots. After a slow start, Hamilton was dominant by season's end, notching victories over Desert Vista, Desert Ridge and Mountain Pointe. This year's team could exceed the accomplishments of any Hamilton team that has come before it.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 13 Coppell (Texas) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Coppell accomplished something in 2012 that no other team can say it achieved: It defeated Class 5A-I state champion Allen. It also dismantled Longview and downed Denton Ryan. In 2013, Coppell's strength is its balance, as it returns at least a half-dozen starters on both sides of the ball. Defensive end Solomon Thomas is one of the state's top defenders and he's joined in the front seven by linebackers John Herubin and Collins Okotcha. The running back duo of Gavin McDaniel and Charles West should power the team's offense. They will run behind an outstanding offensive line that features three returning all-region picks in Bill Weber, Kevin Gray and Chris Biggurs.

Question marks: Quarterback is the most obvious area of concern for Coppell heading into the fall. Junior Skyler Bonneau may be the favorite to win the job, but sophomore Myles Paschal is one to watch. Head coach Joe McBridge is comfortable with his options. However, the team will need to stay healthy. It was plagued by injuries in 2013.

Outlook: Texas is deep with very good teams that could potentially be great. Coppell has the experience, leadership, and talent to make that leap in 2013. It could emerge as the state's top team--or it could end up not even being among the state's Top 10 or 15 teams. A match up with Allen on September 27 is worth circling on the calendar.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 12 Katy (Texas) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery




Strengths: Katy's ground game was dominant a year ago, and there's no reason to expect that it will slow down in 2013. Rodney Anderson, the nation's No. 2 all-purpose back in the Class of 2015 according to 247Sports, is back. The 6-foot, 200-pound junior should fill in for Adam Taylor, who carried the team throughout the playoffs. Even without Matt Dimon, now at Oklahoma, the front seven will be a strength. Cody Gessler and Tim Wilkerson return at nose guard and end, respectively. As a senior, Jake Blomstrom will be a monster middle linebacker in Gary Joseph's system. Returning a quarterback that has a state title under his belt in Kiley Huddleston is an amazing luxury.

Question marks: Outside of center John Kellogg, the team's offensive line will be inexperienced. In Grant Sims, Brandon Dalton and Jared Gonzalez, Katy has two guys that Joseph can comfortably slot in. But the line overall will be unproven. Losing Taylor and Dimon means the team will need to develop a new leader on both sides of the ball. The secondary also loses several playmakers and will need to mature quickly.

Outlook: Katy is the quintessential Texas powerhouse. After winning its seventh state title in 2012, it is well-positioned to make a run at No. 8. As with any Gary Joseph-coached team, Katy will be extremely tough defensively. Huddleston, Anderson and tight end Logan Lister give the team a great offensive foundation that should have Katy playing deep into December once again.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 11 Serra (Gardena, Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Video courtesy of Get Sports Focus
Strengths: Serra produces blue-chip talent at a stunning rate. The alma mater of Robert Woods and Marqise Lee is similarly loaded, returning numerous key players from a 2012 squad that looked like it could have hung with any CIF Bowl Game participant last December. Jalen Greene returns behind center. Sensational two-way star Adoree' Jackson will once again be a key offensive weapon. The defensive line is loaded as well. Junior Rasheem Green is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound manchild at defensive tackle. He's the No. 34 recruit in the Class of 2015 according to 247Sports. He's joined by Olajuwon Tucker and Sam Akoteau. The linebacking unit will be among the most talented in the country, with John Houston and Dwight Williams. Jackson also serves as the team's top defensive back.

Question marks: Serra might've found itself even higher in the rankings if not for the unfortunate news that star running back Malik Roberson, also a track star, tore his ACL last week. There were rumors that former Bishop Gorman running back Nathan Starks might enroll at the school, but head coach Scott Altenberg said that was completely false. Josh Thomas is his likely replacement. He rushed for 75 yards last year. Jackson may see time in the backfield as well. There is still a multitude of offensive weapons, including notable sophomore Brandon Burton, but Roberson's replacement is unclear. There is still some who think that Serra, which won the Division II Bowl Game, might be a notch or two below the larger elite teams in the area. That position is becoming increasingly difficult to defend.

Outlook: Losing Roberson hurts, but Serra is never bereft of skill players. Amazingly, the team's receiving corps, defensive backs, linebackers and defensive line could all have the potential to rank among the best in the country. This team is a bona fide national title contender.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 10 Centennial (Corona, Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery




Strengths: Corona Centennial might be the top program in Southern California right now. The program had perhaps the state's most prolific offense all-time in 2011. With stellar passer Robert Webber, standout running back Tre Watson and dynamic receiver Barry Ware all returning, Matt Logan's offense could approach a similar level of potency this fall. There was slightly more attrition on the defensive side of the ball. However, the unit received a big boost when Austin Maloata transferred in from American Samoa. Jaylen Johnson, a defensive end, and John Plattenburg, a cornerback, give the defense further star power.

Question marks: Even with only four full-time starters back, the defense needs to improve. Putting aside the 48 points it allowed to De La Salle in last year's Open Division Bowl Game, it allowed more than 30 points on six different occasions last year. For as superb as Centennial's offense has been, that's still a good deal of pressure to perform. The defensive line should take a major step forward with the addition of Maloata. Xavier Hughes will have to provide leadership to an otherwise inexperienced linebacking unit.

Outlook: After opening against Liberty (Henderson, Nevada), Centennial will once again take on St. Bonaventure (Ventura), a team that it has lost to in each of the past two seasons. If that game is not enough of an early season challenge, Long Beach Poly awaits in the third week. A 3-0 start to the season would be very impressive, but it will not come easily.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 9 Washington (Miami) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Numerous starters are back from last year's Class 4A title-winning squad that hammered Bolles 35-7 in the finals. Quarterback Treon Harris, who threw for 2,461 yards last year, enters his third season as the team's starting quarterback. Lamar Parker, Deltron Hopkins, Krondis Larry and sophomore Mark Walton give the team plenty of firepower on offense. The Tornadoes will also benefit from an experienced offensive line. Chad Thomas is back on the defensive line after registering 54 tackles and 4.5 sacks. James King, a transfer from Miami Beach, will help fill the void left by Matthew Thomas.

Question marks: This team has national title-caliber talent, and a schedule that could justify a No. 1 ranking. However, it was similarly touted last fall before it squandered a 16-point lead and lost to local rival Miami Central. With the Rockets back on the schedule this fall, and with a game against Georgia defending AAAAAA champion Norcross, Booker T. will need to play at a much higher level than last fall to escape September undefeated.

Outlook: One can make the argument that Booker T. Washington deserves a No. 1 preseason ranking for Florida. Others peg the Tornadoes in the 4-6 range. What's clear is that given its landmine-filled schedule, it has a chance to rise quickly up the national rankings.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 8 Curtis (River Ridge, La.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: What's not to love about John Curtis? The school features a 500-win head coach, an outstanding community support system and network of assistant coaches, as well as enough blue-chip talent to make any Division 1 recruiter salivate. It would be hard -- if not impossible -- to duplicate last year's dream season and No. 1 finish. So, while regression is likely, this team will still be very, very good. Quarterback Abby Touzet returns and he will look for Malachi Dupre, the nation's No. 3 receiver according to 247Sports. Running back Raekwon James returns in the backfield, and sophomore lineman Willie Allen has a chance to be special. He should contribute this season. Defensively, the secondary is loaded and Kenny Young brings a physical presence to the linebackers.



Question marks: The team loses several key pieces off last year's squad, including linebackers Duke Reilly and Eric Thomas, as well as several offensive linemen. None of the team's losses due to graduation should be insurmountable. The program boasts great depth. Early on, the defense will likely carry the team while the offense adjusts to its new faces in the trenches.

Outlook: Last year, Curtis whacked Plant (Tampa, Fla.), and then steamrolled every in-state team in its way. This year, the schedule will be drastically harder, and not just because it is taking on powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas as well as New Jersey's Bergen Catholic. Curtis is also facing defending Class 4A champion Edna Karr as well as talent-laden St. Augustine, which features Leonard Fournette. If Curtis manages to go undefeated once more, it would probably have an even more impressive resume for a national title.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 7 Karr (New Orleans) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: The first name that comes up when talking Edna Karr is Devante "Speedy" Noil. Perhaps the his biggest strength, his speed, has him ranked as the nation's No. 18 recruit according to 247Sports. He is simply breathtaking with the ball in his hands. He'll likely line up behind center, so that Karr can get him involved in every snap. Another blue-chip recruit, Gerald Willis, lines up on the defensive line, which is another strong suit for Karr. Joyan Williams did a great job there as a junior. Linebackers Donnie Alexander, Quanta Moore and Jaevon Walton, who returned to New Orleans after playing last season in Alabama, will combine to make Karr's front seven extremely difficult to penetrate.

Question marks: For as exciting as Noil is, he can't run the offense by himself. Head coach Nathaniel Jones is looking for a running back (or two) to emerge this summer as a reliable threat to prevent teams from keying on Noil. Another cause for concern is a broken hand suffered by Willis this spring. It doesn't appear to be a major issue, but if he loses any time it will be a big blow. Jones thinks he's talented enough to play anywhere on the line and even stand up at middle linebacker if needed. The secondary is by far the most inexperienced unit on the team and will bear watching.

Outlook: Jones is in his first season, taking over for Jabbar Juluke. A Karr graduate, he's saying all the right things and seems to have enjoyed a pretty smooth transition. With a season opener against St. Augustine followed by a game against John Curtis, he'll have to learn on the job. The buzz around Louisiana is that this is the top team in the state. It will have the opportunity early on to prove as much.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 6 St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: A deep, talented offense is overshadowed by an even more impressive defense that returns nine starters. Malik Dorton and Jacob Tuioti-Mariner lead the way up front. The secondary boasts Naijiel Hale, Jaleel Wadood and Chandler Hawkins, three returning starters as well as sought-after recruits. Christian Holland adds further depth and Chandler Leniu leads the linebackers. On offense, Josh Rosen is back under center as the No. 5 recruit in the Class of 2015 according to 247Sports. As a sophomore, he threw for 2,082 yards and 22 touchdowns. This is a talented, complete and battled-tested team with few holes.



Question marks: Both the team's leading rusher (Darren Walker) and receiver (A.J. Holman) from a year ago need to be replaced. Lonell Woodhouse and Shay Fields should be poised to fill in. Still, the offense needs another playmaker. Hale will see some time there, but sophomore receiver D.J. Morgan, who already has a Vanderbilt offer, could fit the bill. Aaron Laut's 10.5 sacks last year will be missed.

Outlook: In reality, the biggest issue facing St. John Bosco is its schedule. It's extremely difficult to navigate the Trinity League and Pac-5 schedules unscathed. Matchups against Clovis North, Chandler (Ariz.) and Crenshaw are far from guaranteed victories. Last year at this time, Santa Margarita was in a similar position. Injuries and a brutal schedule derailed that team's Bowl Game hopes quickly. The vibe in California is that this team will find its way to the Home Depot Center in December for the CIF State Bowl Games. Those are lofty expectations, but ones that this team is capable of meeting.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 5 Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Ga.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: How solid is Sandy Creek in 2013? It has won three state titles in the last four seasons and could have its best squad yet this fall. It returns top performers all over the field, starting with quarterback Cole Garvin. He threw for more than 2,700 yards as a junior. His top target, Clemson-bound Demarre Kitt, also returns after he hauled in 68 passes for 1,151 yards and 11 scores last fall, and will be one of the most dangerous receivers in the country this fall. To keep defenses honest, Sandy Creek will lean on its junior running back duo of Delvin Weems and Eric Swinney. The team is almost equally formidable on defense. Chris Williams will impose his will on defense and Khari Lain and Javonte Lain will anchor the linebacker spots.

Question marks: At nearly every position, Sandy Creek has one of the top players in the state of Georgia. The exception could be in the secondary, where it needs to replace Shaquille Wiggins and Corey Griffin. Super sophomore Ronnie Blackmon could help provide part of the answer. As a AAAA school, it might lack the depth that bigger schools in the state enjoy. The team also needs to find a replacement for Mitchell McMillin, who handled kicking and punting duties.

Outlook: This team has a legitimate claim as the state's -- and perhaps the nation's -- best. It has an impressive assembly of talent that thrives under head coach Chip Walker's system. Last year, Sandy Creek outscored opponents, on average, 44-9 each game. Little is standing in the team's way of at least duplicating that dominance.
{PAGEBREAK}4. Allen (Texas) - Team preview


Strengths: Allen is led by junior quarterback Kyler Murray, the top dual threat quarterback in 2015 according to 247Sports. He came into his own as a sophomore, leading Allen down the stretch through a murderous Class 5A-I playoff bracket. Receiver Cole Carter, a second team all-region pick, also returns. The Eagles' defense, which thwarted the likes of Skyline and Desoto last year, returns seven starters, including linebackers Tay Evans and Christian Sam. Defensive back Chad Adams, hugely important to the team's secondary, is another welcomed returnee.



Question marks: Despite not having as much depth as many big-time Texas programs, Allen still loses a whopping 56 letterwinners from a year ago. While key players are back on both sides, that is still a tremendous amount of turnover. However, that type of turnover is not uncommon among Texas 5A teams, particularly ones successful enough to win Class 5A titles. Head coach Tom Westerberg will find replacements for open spots on the offensive line and in the backfield.

Outlook: Allen earned a preseason No. 1 ranking for the state of Texas. But, with a season opener on the road against Southlake Carroll, it will have to work to continue to earn that spot. Murray will only continue to get better at quarterback and he made numerous big plays down the stretch last year. New faces will need to contribute, but Allen's foundation should make it a state title threat once again in 2013.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 3 Norcross (Ga.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Norcross is big, fast and strong -- and has already shown it has the mettle to go the distance. Last year, it finished undefeated, winning the Class AAAAAA state title and beating the likes of Camden County and Colquitt County in the process. The defense returns the nation's No. 2 recruit according to 247Sports, Lorenzo Carter, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound manchild at defensive end. Three linebackers, including coveted recruit Kevin Mouhon, also return. Amazingly, all five offensive linemen are back, as is Myles Autry, who is as exciting as any player in the state with the ball in his hands.

Question marks: Despite returning a whopping 16 starters, there are serious issues that Norcross needs to address, mostly on offense. Last year, the team relied heavily on MaxPreps All-American Alvin Kamara, who carried the ball 303 times for 2,264 yards and 26 touchdowns. Head coach Keith Malouf also needs to find a replacement for quarterback Joseph Wilber, who threw for nearly 2,500 yards last year. Autry will help make up for some of that production, but he can't replace nearly 5,000 yards of offense. Further complicating matters is the reality that Autry is still recovering from offseason surgery that corrected a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus he suffered in the playoffs last year.

Outlook: This team has everything you look for in a national champion-caliber squad: It proved itself last year and returns most of its team. It blends star power with solid, unheralded role players. Perhaps most importantly, Malouf understands the expectations many will have for this squad and will do everything in his power to limit any sort of distractions.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 2 Central (Miami) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: Central is among the most talented teams in the nation, with multiple key contributors back from a Class 6A title-winning squad. After losing two of its first three games (to Grayson and then-No. 1 Manatee), the Rockets rattled off 11 straight wins, with an average margin of victory of 27 points. Star running backs Joseph Yearby and Dalvin Cook return behind an offensive line that boasts Miami commit Trevor Darling and USF commit Michael Smith. The defense returns six starters and, like the offense, will have abounding speed. Defensive back Deatrick Nichols leads the secondary. Twan Adams and Keon Burgess give Central two returning interior linemen on defense. Rasheed Blatch and Jonathan Harris will once again line up at linebacker.



Question marks: Head coach Telly Lockette, the driving force behind the program's success, left in the offseason to take an assistant coach job at USF. However, his replacement, Roland Smith, is a good fit. In his last coaching stint, at Miami Northwestern, Smith led the team to an undefeated season. He knows the landscape of Miami high school football and has proven that he can win on the big stage. However, it's still a transition, for the coaching staff in addition to the players. While the team has not lost to a Dade County opponent since 2008, it lost to a Georgia team and a Manatee County team last year. This fall, it hits the road to take on Don Bosco Prep. While Central will be favored, traveling 1,200 miles and winning a high school football game in a different climate is never easy. There are very few personnel questions for Central, but replacing kicker/punter Emilio Nadelman is one of them.

Outlook: In all likelihood, the only team that can stop Miami Central is Miami Central. Certainly, games against the likes of Booker T. Washington, University and Don Bosco Prep will be challenging, but this Central team is equipped to run the table. If Smith can pick up where Lockette left off without any hiccups, it will be tough to deny the Rockets a national No. 1 ranking in December.
{PAGEBREAK}No. 1 De La Salle (Concord, Calif.) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery


Strengths: De La Salle is always efficient and disciplined up front, on both sides of the ball. The 2013 Spartans could be the biggest and most talented group of linemen the school has seen in recent memory. Offensively, Drew Sullivan, Larry Allen Jr., Sumner Houston and Boss Tagaloa all return up front. The group should average close to 270 pounds, which is big for an average high school line and massive by De La Salle's standards. Houston and Tagaloa double as defensive linemen. They'll likely be joined by Kahlil McKenzie, son of Raiders General Manager Reggie McKenzie, who spent his first two years playing in Green Bay, Wisc. The starting quarterback, Chris Williams, returns to provide an invaluable bonus, given his command of the team's offense. Running back Das Tautalatasi is back after rushing for 1,000 yards last year. With a really impressive-looking sophomore group, there is a sense around the program that it could be returning to talent levels that it enjoyed in the late 1990s-early 2000s.

Question marks: De La Salle doesn't have any blue-chip, five-star game changer on offense. However, with a few exceptions, that has largely been the case for decades. Still, the team will need to be able to depend on contributions from someone like Marquis Morris, a track star clocked at 10.7 seconds in the 100 meters. The coaching transition from Bob Ladouceur to Justin Alumbaugh went about as smoothly as possible. Alumbaugh has been groomed for years for this role, and Ladouceur will remain on the staff as an assistant. It is still a transition nonetheless, and there's no way to perfectly predict how it will play out. McKenzie is ultra-talented, but has never gone through a De La Salle practice. There will be a learning curve, and he'll have to prove himself to the coaching staff. For this team to realize its potential, its group of sophomores needs to step in and contribute, since replacing Michael Hutchings, Victor Egu and the other graduating talent won't be easy. Six-foot-4basketball star Devin Asiasi and Anthony Sweeney could be key players. Tagaloa, the first De La Salle freshman to earn an offer, could develop into a monster as early as this season.

Outlook: De La Salle has dominated the California landscape, winning the Open Division Bowl Game by an average of more than 27 points each of the last four seasons. However, against opponents from other states, the Spartans are only 2-3 during the same stretch. There is very little separating the pack of teams at the top of the preseason rankings. Any early season struggle could drop the Spartans. With no notable out-of-state game on the schedule for the first time in recent memory, even if De La Salle rolls to another Bowl Game title, will it be enough to hang on to No. 1?