REGION 4-5A AT A GLANCE

Team to beat: It could be that Walker Valley, which has never won a postseason game, will at least be in a conversation that typically has been reserved for Ooltewah and Rhea County. The Mustangs lost just four starters from a team that disappointed coaches and fans alike with a 4-6 finish that had at least two nail-biting losses, including a one-point setback in overtime to region champion Ooltewah.

Watch out for: Cleveland, under second-year coach Scott Cummings, got a year of experience for a young, athletic and fast team. Cummings’ veer will present problems, but he also has a pair of talented receivers.

Best game: If Walker Valley performs to potential and expectations, the Mustangs could find their championship aspirations hanging on the final regular-season game at home on Oct. 28 vs. defending champion Ooltewah.

Dream schedule: Walker Valley’s nonregion schedule might be the most favorable other than the opener on the road against Super 32 member and county rival Bradley Central. Beyond the Bears, the Mustangs host 4A’s Hixson and 2A’s Tyner and travel to 4A’s Coffee County, which hasn’t had a winning season since 2007.

Nightmare schedule: Outside of region play, Rhea County opens at Baylor and hosts Indianapolis Cathedral, a perennial Hoosier State power. The Eagles’ final two games at are home — region contests vs. Walker Valley and McMinn County. Players to watch: There are two returning QBs of note — Soddy-Daisy’s Justin Cooke and Walker Valley’s Kolton Gibson. Each passed for more than 2,200 yards, and both are dual-threat types. Rhea County TE Jared Edwards is one of the area’s top prospects. Although he’s big (6-foot-4, 250 pounds), it’s likely that he will occasionally split out in a wide receiver spot. Ooltewah senior Alek Toser led area kickers with 75 points, including going for 9-for-12 on field goals. Predicted order of finish: Rhea County, Ooltewah, Walker Valley, Soddy-Daisy, Cleveland, McMinn County, White County.