Junior tailback Darius Bell is poised for a breakout season. Bell rushed for 875 yards and eight touchdowns last year despite missing three games. Coach Darren Hess plans to feature Bell like he did former West star Josh Lacombe.

Christian Stevens has had an outstanding offseason, according to his coach, and could be a big factor at 3-technique tackle on defense. He will be part of an all-senior defensive front.

Kevin Bracht takes over as offensive coordinator for Josh Roop, who left to become head coach at Tri-Valley. Bracht, former offensive coordinator at University High, likely will call more pass plays to complement the option run game.

West gets a stiff test in its opener. The Wildcats face Champaign Centennial and star tailback, Mikel Leshoure, a big-time recruit who was Big 12 Conference co-Offensive Player of the Year last season.

After three straight playoff appearances, the Wildcats have been rewarded with new uniforms. The road version was modeled after practice recently by senior Matt Paska. His teammates cheered what Coach Darren Hess called "a fresh, new look."