Illini Heartland conference

Illini Heartland

Outlook: Manley has ruled of late, but Brooks — under new coach James Brown — and Harlan may have something to say.

Top Five Players (Ht., Wt., Yr.)

L Michael Gurrant, Manley, 6-3, 318, Sr.

LB William Hadley, Manley, 5-10, 185, Sr.

LB Kirby Lacey, Brooks 6-1, 180, Jr.

WR Trenton Patterson, Brooks, 5-11, 170, So.

RB Tareem Washington, Manley, 5-10, 170, Sr.

Quote: ‘‘We got to the state playoffs for the first time in school history last year, and with this team I think we can do it again.’’ —Manley head coach James Boggan

Did you know? Brown has put together a formidable staff with his former high school coach, Greg Brooks, former Dunbar assistant Tommie Smith, former All-State back Charles Frazier and former All-City back Montell Taylor.

Predicted finish:Manley, Brooks, Harlan, Clark, Phillips, Crane.