Northern Ohio League Football

BELLEVUE: Can the Redmen win their 24th NOL title?
It's very feasible to see the Redmen again claiming league gold, and the answer very well could be known by Week 6.
Bellevue must open the season with four straight road games, including two tough non-conference trips to Perkins and Clyde along with opening the NOL at Shelby, traditionally the toughest NOL venue for an opposing team. Two weeks later, the Redmen must travel to Columbian to take on the league favorites and the team that cost them the NOL title and a playoff win in a 6-day span to end the 2008 season.
With arguably the league's best player, look for the Redmen to get at least a share of No. 24 this season.

NORWALK: When will the Truckers snap their losing streak?
On paper, it's very easy to see Norwalk sitting at 0-4 after the first four games (Edison, Huron, Perkins, Columbian). That would put the losing streak at 14 games, dating back to the 2007 season finale, a 34-0 win over Willard. At Fostoria in Week 5 and home to the Flashes in Week 6, which is also homecoming night, appear to be viable chances for a win, with the third most likely chance coming in Week 10 vs. Upper Sandusky. However, if they are winless when hosting Upper, it would mean the Truckers streak is at 19. Look for it to end at 14 with a mild upset road win at Fostoria.

WILLARD: Will experience lead to success for Willard?
Experience will lead to more wins than in 2008, which was just two.
This team will improve. It's pretty clear that everyone involved — players, coaches, fans, etc. — were embarrassed by last year's record.
The Crimson Flashes will have more to build upon in 2010. Let's view 2009 as a stepping stone.