The 2013 season begins this week for our local teams. As we begin the season, I’m going to give what I think the best- and worst-case scenarios are for each local team

No. 7 Hartselle

Best Case – 10-0: Hartselle has a lot of talent and it shines through the season. If the Tigers overcome its inexperience, Hartselle could run the table. Defense, kicking game and a strong running game will be key to success.

Worst Case – 5-5: The Tigers’ inexperience causes them to struggle against the top teams of Region 8. Teams key on the running game, forcing Hartselle to throw the ball more often than it would like. The defense also gives up too many big plays. The Tigers make the playoffs as a No. 4 seed but are still capable of another deep playoff run.

Falkville

Best Case – 9-0: The Blue Devils are region champions due to their senior leadership and don’t face any key injuries down the stretch. Defense will be the key.

Worst Case – 6-3: Falkville ends the season with a tough three-game stretch against Addison, Ragland and Danville. In this scenario, the Blue Devils lose all three and finish third in the region.

Danville

Best Case – 8-2: The Hawks have a much improved defense and finally win the close games they lost last year. Danville played five one-possession games, losing three of them. If the breaks go their way, Danville could host a playoff game.

Worst Case – 3-7: The Hawks can’t replace the 10 seniors, eight of which were starters, it lost to graduation this year. The defense has trouble stopping the powerful offenses in Region 7 and the Hawks struggle in its six road games.

Priceville

Best Case – 6-4: Priceville’s defense improves while the offense continues to roll. The Bulldogs find a way to win four region games and make the playoffs in the tough Region 8.

Worst Case – 2-8: The defense struggles to slow down teams again this year, putting too much pressure on the offense to score.

Brewer

Best Case – 5-5: Brewer makes significant improvements under second-year head coach Dan Styles. They win all three non-region games and are competitive with the entire region, leading to a couple of region wins.

Worst Case – 1-9: The Patriots can’t overcome a losing mentality of a program that hasn’t had a winning season since 1999.

Brent Maze is the managing editor for the Hartselle Enquirer.