High school football: Football's storylines for 2010 abound from A to Z

The wait is finally over.

The 2010 high school football season kicks off tonight with a total of 49 games being played under the Friday night lights. It is the 118th season of Utah high school football, and it's one that features dozens of juicy storylines.

Will anyone challenge Bingham in 5A? What are the top matchups? Will anyone run the ball this season, or is everyone just lining up in shotgun and throwing it?

This alphabetical primer will answer some questions and help get you ready for the 2010 season.

A IS FOR AGONY: The 2009 season featured an ending that will never be forgotten by those who witnessed it, when Juan Diego completed a touchdown pass as time expired in the 3A championship game. But it was pure agony for Hurricane, which was on the losing end of the score. The Tigers now have to put it behind them and do it without many of the players who got them to the title game. But with a standout lineman in Daniel Nielson, a University of Utah recruit, and a returning quarterback in Adam Long, Hurricane could again return to Rice-Eccles Stadium this season and have a more pleasant finish.

B IS FOR BALANCE: Class 1A football will feature a lot more balance in 2010. Last year, Rich destroyed everyone, winning games by an average of 32 points per game. The field is much closer to the Rebels this season, as Duchesne, Monticello, Altamont and Milford have realistic hopes of winning a 1A championship.

C IS FOR CHAMPIONS: Bingham, Timpview, Juan Diego, San Juan and Rich captured state titles in 2009, and it wouldn't be too surprising if all five were repeat winners this season. The Miners are heavily favored in 5A. Timpview's toughest competition will come from Mountain Crest, Spanish Fork and Highland. Juan Diego will need to get past Hurricane and rival Judge. San Juan is probably a cofavorite in 2A with South Summit.

D IS FOR D-LINE: The best, biggest and most disruptive defensive line outside of Bingham may belong to the Sky View Bobcats. Sky View returns three starters in Jordan Nielsen, Colby Vilanueva and Jaren Balls. Nielsen had 85 tackles and 12 sacks, Vilanueva had 59 tackles and seven sacks, and Balls had 61 tackles and four sacks last season.