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POSTED: Saturday, Nov. 07, 2009

PREP FOOTBALL: Five Questions for Week 11

It's state playoff time for several teams from the Northwest Conference and a big congratulations is in order. The challenges only get bigger from here on out, so here are five questions heading into Week 11.

1. WHICH TEAM FROM THE NWC HAD THE MOST IMPRESSIVE WIN IN THE POSTSEASON IN WEEK 10?

Based on seeding, Blaine and Meridian pulled off the only upsets, but take a look at the scores and it was pretty clear the Northwest Conference more than held its own in Week 10.

The Borderites handled a tough Cedarcrest team on the road, and Burlington-Edison destroyed South Whidbey. Even Mount Baker's 28-0 loss to Archbishop Murphy was impressive considering how talented the Wildcats are. Meridian looked explosive against Coupeville and played inspired football. All in all it was a good showing by the NWC as usual.

2. DOES THE CLASS 1A POSTSEASON SYSTEM NEED TO BE FIXED?

The short answer is yes but finding a fair solution could be a problem. It's ridiculous that some Class 1A teams have to play four games over a two week stretch should they reach the first round of the state tournament. It's too many games in too short a time.

Having one play-in game along the way isn't ideal, but at least it makes some sense. Having two play-in games could be avoided. One solution might be to start the postseason a week early, at least for those teams in Districts One, Two and Three that use the Tri-District system.

As it stands the Class 1A teams in the NWC play two non-conference games a season. How about dropping one of those, finishing the regular season during Week 8, and then holding at least one of those games currently played on a Tuesday on the Thursday or Friday night of Week 9. It's a thought at least.

3. WHICH TEAMS IN THE NORTHWEST CONFERENCE WILL BE THE MOST IMPROVED NEXT SEASON?

With several teams seeing their season end over the weekend, it's never to early to take a quick peek at what 2010 might hold.

Of the non-playoff teams, Bellingham might have the most to look forward to. The Red Raiders won't lose many players to graduation and will have some talent at key positions. Anacortes seemed to get things going late in the season and will also have some things to build on.

Mount Baker, Ferndale and Meridian have all had outstanding seasons this year, but could be even better in 2010.

4. WILL HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF IN THE PLAYOFFS?

With the way things are shaking out in the playoffs so far, it sure seems like we could see a lot of similarities between this year and last. If it does turn out the same, there's no doubt Lynden fans will be excited because that would mean back-to-back state titles, but a lot has to happen between now and then.

5. WHAT'S THE MUST-SEE GAME IN WEEK 11?

State playoff games are always must-see, but the best games next week involving Northwest Conference schools might be out of our area. That said, there will still be some good games. Nooksack Valley's game on Tuesday should be fun because the teams that come out of the West Central District are tough.