SEASON OUTLOOK
Curtis has one of the toughest schedules in the nation, but if the Patriots emerge unscathed they could be in line for another national championship.
Photo by Roddy Johnson
St. Thomas Aquinas. Although Curtis' schedule features No. 7 Edna Karr, its biggest showdown could be against Florida powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas, which has had a stellar record against out of state opponents in recent years.
Question mark: How will the brutal schedule affect the team? Not only will the Patriots be challenged by a loaded in-state schedule, but they also take on St. Thomas Aquinas and Bergen Catholic. Additionally, with the playoff restructuring, the team's road to another state title should be even more difficult.
Local look: Karr begins ranked one spot ahead of Curtis, but that could change quickly when the teams meet early in the season. West Monroe, Barbe and St. Augustine all have a lot returning and could factor into the rankings later in the season.
Overall outlook: Curtis might not be able to produce another perfect season this fall, given the players lost to graduation. However if the Patriots run the table once more it will be an even more impressive feat than last year, and will place them firmly in the discussion for another national No. 1 finish.
Coach quote: "Certainly a repeat of last year's successes will be difficult, but we will prepare and play to reach our goal of being the best possible team we can be. Whatever happens after that is an honor."
- Jeff Curtis, assistant coach
