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, Class C-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.

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No. 2 PIERCE
District 4

COACH: Mark Brahmer, 17th season

LAST SEASON: Lost to eventual champion Norfolk Catholic in the quarterfinals 22-12, finishing the season 9-2.

RETURNING STARTERS: Aaron Hanlin, senior, OG/DE; Charles Krueger, junior, OT/DT; Matt Lukens, senior, TE/DE; Nate Meier, senior, RB/LB; Trent Spieker, senior, RB/OLB

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Meier. The Bluejays running back returns for his senior season after rushing for 876 yards last season. The 190-pound, multi-sport athlete is looking to have a big season, and Brahmer expects him to garner interest from colleges around the region.

KEY DEPARTURE: Brandon Freeman, QB, and Shelton Dvorak, LB.