Times-Dispatch Preseason Top 10

1 HERMITAGE (11-2) With so many questions still to be answered in the Central Region, last year’s Division 6 champs get the nod for now.

2 HIGHLAND SPRINGS (10-1) Springers’ veteran defense can carry the load while the new coaching staff and rebuilt offense get up to speed.

3 DINWIDDIE (9-2) Scoring points is no problem with Adam Morgan closing in on state passing records.

4 DEEP RUN (6-4) Wildcats have three Division I players and a strong supporting cast.

5 L.C. BIRD (10-1) Skyhawks are permanent residents at the top of the Dominion District and in the top 10.

6 THOMAS DALE (5-5) Knights have a lot of good, experienced high school players.

7 VARINA (7-3) Perennial power has a new coach, but he has Blue Devil blood in him.

8 MEADOWBROOK (9-3) Can a huge lineman named Moses help Monarchs reach playoff land again?

9 PATRICK HENRY (7-5) Patriots are in the Division 5 playoff mix again for Ray Long, the region’s winningest coach.

10 MANCHESTER (8-2) At the start, the Lancers occupy what could be a revolving spot this season.