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Three questions for Class A football: What's the toughest district in the state?

It's hard to argue that competition will be fierce in A-5

By Ryan Aber | Published: August 26, 2012 Comment on this article

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Varsity: Deondre Clark, Douglass defensive end

Aug 24The Oklahoman's Ryan Aber talks with Douglass' Deondre...

Varsity: Heath Newland, Edmond North offensive lineman

Aug 24Edmond North's Heath Newland talks about his hopes for...

Varsity: Joel Blumenthal, Deer Creek quarterback

Aug 24Ryan Aber talks with Deer Creek quarterback Joel...

Varsity: Carlos Freeman, Midwest City offensive lineman

Aug 24Midwest City offensive lineman Carlos Freeman talks...

Varsity: Zach Long, Norman quarterback

Aug 24Norman quarterback Zach Long talks about the TIgers'...

Matt Miller takes over as Davenport's new leader

Aug 23Matt Miller has always had his older brother Mike...

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Article Gallery: Three questions for Class A football: What's the toughest district in the state?

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What's going on in the panhandle?

It's no surprise that Texhoma is expected to be good again. The Red Devils are regularly among the top teams in the class. The surprise now though is that one of the state's top players — in Class A or any other class — also plays in the panhandle.

Hooker quarterback/defensive back Joe Bean raised his profile greatly over the summer as he trekked to camps all over the region, opening up a possibility for a Division I scholarship.

Hooker struggled a bit last season, but the offense is evolving to take advantage of Bean's strengths, which should lead to improvement.

Who has the best chance to take down Wynnewood or Wayne at the top?

The best bet has to be Thomas.

The Terriers return eight starters on both offense and defense.

Scott Watt is a dangerous player at both receiver and linebacker, and Tyler Mannering gives Thomas a spark with his legs at quarterback, when he's not handing the ball to Chaipen Nease.

The defense is also plenty good, led by linebacker Stetson Haigler, who had 137 tackles a year ago.

Ringling, Texhoma and Morrison also have a chance.

BY RYAN ABER