Leading up to the Nebraska high school football season, NEPrepZone.com will be looking at the top teams in each class, based on last year’s rankings. This week, Eight Man-1 will be in the spotlight with a new post each day. Let us know in the comments how you think each team will finish, as well as players you’ll be watching.

* * *

No. 5 GARDEN COUNTY

NOTE: The Eagles move to Eight Man-2 this season after finishing 10-1 and losing in the Eight Man-1 state quarterfinals to Kenesaw last season.

COACH: Jason Spady, 12th year

RETURNING STARTERS: Kane McLaughlin, senior, TE/LB; Devon Sullivan, senior, RB/DB; Jesse Bleidt, senior, C/DT; Tristen Jackson, junior, RB/DB; Layne McCarthy, junior, RB/DB; Terrel Vineyard, junior, QB/DB; J.D. Toepfer, junior, G/DL

KEY RETURNING STARTER: McLaughlin. As the No. 2 back last season, McLaughlin rushed for for 701 yards and 14 touchdowns.

KEY DEPARTURES: J.D. Leonard. The running back ran for 1,158 yards and 22 touchdowns last season.