High school football: Region 9 hopes to repeat '11 title game feat

6. SNOW CANYON: After missing out on the playoffs last year, the Warriors return seven offensive starters and should be more competitive this year. Among those returning starters are three on the line, Austin Best, Bowman Loo and Cesar Bautista. The team must replace QB Brayden Linde, but Mitchell Phillips returns this year after leading Snow Canyon with 561 rushing yards last year. Taylor Johanson and Brandon McFarland are also back after receiving a fair amount of carries last year. The Warriors conceded nearly 27 ppg last year, but only four defensive starters from that team are back. 2011 RECORD: 2-7. PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify.

7. CANYON VIEW: The defense gave up 44, 49, 54 and 44 points respectively in its final four games, and unless it figures out a way to get stops it won't matter how improved the offense is. Anchoring the defense are returning starting linebackers Karson Connelly, Jesse Johnson and Bailey Pederson. Offensively, Stetson Deardon rushed for 501 yards last season after taking over the starting role in Week 3. He's expected to take an even bigger role this year. With an undersized line though, Canyon View will likely throw more than run this year, which puts pressure on returning starter Koy Huxford. He's got several quality receiver targets this year though. 2011 RECORD: 2-7. PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify.

Email: jedward@desnews.com