[charlie22]

This may be the most interesting year we've come across in a while.
Highlands is one of the favorites of course, but no where near the heavy favorite they have been in the past. They might even struggle within their own district and region.
Cov Cath, Lex Cath, Boyle, and Russell all have the potential to make a run at the east IMO.
As of right now, ill take Lex Cath.

I'm curious to know your reasoning behind the bolded portion of your post. Is it because Highlands will be down from prior years; the competition will be that much improved; or a combination of both?

Frankly, I don't think Highlands will be down at all from last year. I see a Highlands team as good as last years waiting to hit the gridiron this year.