1 In control

Much like its cross-river neighbor to the west, St. Paul’s City Conference has been dominated by one team for several years. Central has won the past five conference titles and is favored to do it again this season. It might not come so easy this year, though. Highland Park coach Ben Fuller said he believes this year’s champ might have a few blemishes in its record. Central, Johnson, Harding and Highland Park all have the potential to upset each other.

 

2 The Twin Cities champ

St. Paul Central’s dominance has stretched into Minneapolis over the past two seasons. The Minutemen extended their Twin Cities championship winning streak to three games with a three-point victory over Washburn last season. It’s likely we’ll see a rematch of last year’s game, and Washburn’s Jeff Jones is eager to end St. Paul’s streak.

 

3 Chance to rebuild

Humboldt didn’t win a game in conference last season. The closest the Hawks got to a conference victory was a nine-point loss. Their regular season, however, ended with a victory against Minneapolis Edison, and coach Steve Elizondo is confident he can build off that. Quarterback Nathan Aguirre, cornerback Dwight Cannon and fullback Jake Nowlin-Larson are among nine returning seniors and 11 upperclassmen. Depth is a concern for Elizondo, but the experienced roster could lead to a turnaround year.

 

4 HIGHLAND HIGHLIGHTS

It’s likely Highland Park’s Isaiah Brower will put together an all-conference type of season. Last season he achieved the honor in football, basketball and track. His four interceptions led the Scots defense. Offensively, he scored four touchdowns. Nick Lannier also will be expected to pick up the offensive load. He is one of the fastest players in the conference and should help first-year starting quarterback Paul Munoz settle into his new role.

JASON GONZALEZ