Well, it looks like "business as usual" in the Cape Fear Valley 3A conference this season. I don't see anything shocking or surprising happening, except maybe for the downfall of Westover, but then again, who knows? Could be like the last verse. Maybe better. Maybe worse. I better move on the predictions and give up poetry!

2010 Cape Fear Valley 3A predicted standings

1. Douglas Byrd, 6-0 conference, 10-1 overall

2. Gray's Creek, 5-1, 9-2

3. Western Harnett, 4-2, 5-6

4. Overhills, 3-3, 3-8

5. Westover, 2-4, 2-9

6. Union Pines, 1-5, 5-6

7. Southern Lee, 0-7, 0-11

Douglas Byrd looks like they will be the top team in the league, but, they will be challenged by last years regular season football champion, Gray's Creek.

Western Harnett surprised me last year having changed coaches, and the Eagles will try to improve on last year's efforts.

Overhills could be a spoiler team in the conference. The Jaguars usually have lots of talent, but unfortunately, the coaching staff has not been able do anything with that talent, since the school has not yet posted a winning season in varsity football, though the JV team won the conference JV football championship last season. Playing on Friday nights is a lot different than Thursday nights.

Westover could be the most surprising and unpredictable team in the conference. I doubt that they will repeat the success they had last year, and with Coach Milton Butts, a few assistants and even a few players moving on to Hoke County, nobody is sure how much of a dropoff the Wolverines will have if any.

Last year's cellar dweller Southern Lee will try to escape the cellar this season with a new coach and new attitude. Folks better not take the Cavaliers too lightly.

Union Pines will try to improve on last year's 4-7 record and try to move into a playoff spot this season. The Vikes will have the potential to get it done but will need to improve on offensive and defensive line play, special teams and hopefully find a kicking game. Last year's JV squad was very competitive, and lots of players on that squad from last season are expected to contribute greatly to the varsity team.

If the Vikes are to get in the playoffs this season, they will need to win at least five games, and at least two of those wins must be conference wins. It's not impossible, but the Vikings will need to learn to work together and play together in order to accomplish that goal. Team chemistry could play a huge factor in UP's season outcome. After seeing UP battle Lee County in a recent scrimmage, there's a lot more work that the Vikings need to do before their home season opener versus Red Springs.

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