Well it is almost that time again. A little over a month from now and it is go time. The MAC is intriguing this season. You have the top 3 fighting it out once again. Roberson, Asheville, and McDowell all have new coaches. Enka and NB will try to be in the mix but they have a uphill climb as always. I get burnt out on here sometimes but I thought I would give it a go and see what you guys think. Lets hear your thoughts. Here are mine.
1. Erwin - Yes I am bias but I think the Warriors have a very good shot at the conference championship this season. They return some major playmakers and possibly WNC's all time leading passer. They looked very good in 7 on 7 so far vs much bigger schools like Byrnes SC, who they almost beat. I know 7 on 7 means little but its all I got right now .If they can overcome the loss of their biggest and best lineman who was tragically murdered this summer and replace Chase Austin they should be good. Defense and schedule will be their biggest question marks this year as it has been in the past
2. Asheville - It is hard not to put the Cougars in the #1 spot because of tradition alone. I have had many words over the years with Cougar fans but I have a lot of respect for the program. This season will be interesting because of the new coach and offense. Personally I think what made Asheville such a dangerous team was their ability to run the ball so well. I think they will eventually pick up on the spread and put up big numbers. Asheville will always have more athletes than the rest of wnc so I expect it to be another big year for them.
3. Reynolds - The Rockets have to replace one of the best players I have seen in WNC in a long time. Rico Dowdle made a good team look like a great team at times. If I know the Rockets they will be just fine by seasons end. They looked pretty rough at the 7 on 7 at Erwin, but I have a feeling once the new qb settles in they will be a good team and challenge Asheville and Erwin once again for the top spot in the conference.
4. Roberson - The Rams have the size and talent to be dangerous every season, but they lack the heart. Maybe the new coach will energize them and get things going in the right direction. I don't think they challenge the top 3 but they will still be a team that could pull a upset anytime.
5. McDowell - Again, new coach and new enthusiasm I am sure. The Titans will have pretty much a new stadium by next year and they certainly have the numbers to compete. I think they will challenge Roberson for the 4A title this season.
6. Enka - Every year the local news reports on the Jets having a big turnout and they look for big things. Unfortunately for the Jets it doesn't translate in to wins. With the exception of maybe Pisgah, Enka has the best fan base I have seen. No matter how bad the team is the fans fill the stands. If they ever start winning it will be standing room only.
7. NB - The Hawks have got a small taste of winning the last few years but they lost most of their good players. They do have one kid who is as fast s anyone in the conference but they will need a lot more than that.
