SFL - Where Do They Stand #1

1Free State Firebirds

In their 21st season, the Firebirds led by their only Head Coach Bob Lisher is looking to continue to dominate play in the Sunflower League. 

Despite a tough week-1 loss to the SM West Vikings in 2017, the Firebirds are looking to change that momentum being on the road to start the season. Look again for the Birds to reel off a strong middle of the season game of play prior to week-9. Fortunately for a great program, the only road blocks the Firebirds hope to defeat in the west could be the Derby Panthers, which have ended great seasons in both 2015 and 2016.

2SM East Lancers

With fifth year Head Coach Dustin Delaney leading the way, the Lancers once again have strong aspirations to play past week-9 and further. 

Led by Milton Braasch, and a great Senior class-led program, the expectations remain high each and every week. Look for the Lancers to enjoy a great first three weeks of play with the SM Northwest Cougars, Olathe South Falcons, and Rockhurst Hawklets (@ SM North, for the first time since 1981). Sunflower League play will be a strong factor as they face the Olathe North Eagles immediately following the Hawklets in week-4.  

3SM West Vikings

Under 15th year Head Coach Tim Callaghan, the Vikings, similar to the Lancers and Firebirds knocking on the door to the top-spot in League play. The Vikings are certainly capable of finishing well above .500. In 2016, Tim Callaghan achieved his 100th win with the Vikings, as he looks to build on the SM West Football lore throughout the '17 season. 

The Vikings best play will come against their Sunflower foes when they are at their best. With games against the Firebirds, Chesty Lions, and Lancers, all three is where you will see the Vikings game planning, and knowledge on the field pay off. With experienced student-athletes all over the field, this is a huge benefit to a historically strong program. 

4Olathe South Falcons

The Falcons, the by second year Head Coach Craig Lewis, will look to continue their strides made from the 2016 season. With two big wins against intra-district rivals the Olathe East Hawks. 

With the Falcons also finding themselves with a negative record in 2016, the standard of play will once again be raised to start off strong, and make some noise in the first couple weeks of play. The Falcons face a tough week-1 test against the SM East Lancers.