1. Lynden: Repeating NWC and state titles won't be an easy chore for Lions.

2. Anacortes: Seahawks return four starters from last season and have size.

3. Lynden Christian: Defending 1A champs will be tough to match up with inside.

4. Sehome: Mariners will have plenty of scorers, but need defense to develop.

5. Burlington-Edison: Tigers have enough pieces to be successful once again.

6. Squalicum: Don't count out Storm just because it is rebuilding again.

7. Meridian: Trojans should have good length and good depth this season.

8. Ferndale: Golden Eagles will look very different with much smaller lineup.

9. Bellingham: Red Raiders should take some big steps forward this season.

10. Mount Baker: Mountaineers' chemistry could take them far this season.

11. Sedro-Woolley: Moving to 2A will help, but Cubs return only two starters.

12. Blaine: New coach attempting to change expectations for Borderites.

13. Nooksack Valley: Young Pioneers likely to improve as season progresses.

DAVID RASBACH

Reach DAVID RASBACH at david.rasbach@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2271.