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Grantsville coach Tony Cloward could talk about how tough the rest of Class 3A is and make an attempt to convince the rest of 3A that the Cowboys aren't that good.

What's the point?

Grantsville is good enough to win the state title, and Cloward isn't afraid to say it. The Cowboys return 14 starters from last season's 6-5 team that lost to Juan Diego in the first round of the playoffs.

The success of last year coupled with the experience returning has given Grantsville high expectations.

"Our goal is to play for the state championship," Cloward said. "If we don't make it to the state championship game, we have underachieved. We return six starters on offense and eight on a defense that should be dominating."

The option offense in large part will revolve around Ky Fisher, the team's leading rusher last season who scored 19 touchdowns.

Quarterback Nephi Meono has a year of seasoning and appears to be ready for a big year. He was thrust into the starting spot after an injury opened the way for Meono to run the offense. Wyatt Smith is a returning starter at fullback and should give the Cowboys another effective option.

Cloward believes the strength of the team will revolve around the defense. Jake Riding and Devin Adams return to anchor the defensive line, and Cloward believes cornerback Dallin Williams is as good as anyone in the state.

The combination has put the Cowboys in a position to expect success. —

Grantsville Cowboys

ASSIGNMENT • Class 3A North

LAST YEAR • 6-5 overall, 3-3 Region 11

KEY RETURNER • Ky Fisher. He led the team in rushing and tackles for the last two seasons.

PLAYER TO WATCH • Nephi Meono. An injury forced him into the starting spot last year. That experience has prepared him for a breakout season.

BIGGEST HOLE • Inexperience in the trenches. The Cowboys lost all five starters on the offensive line.

NEED TO KNOW • Depth chart. Grantsville cannot afford injuries to any of its key starters.