CLASS 5A

1. Regis (20-3)
2. Arapahoe (21-2)
3. Chaparral (20-3)
4. Fairview (22-1)
5. ThunderRidge (18-5)
6. Ralston Valley (18-5)
7. Columbine (19-4)
8. Highlands Ranch (20-3)
9. Denver East (19-4)
10. Fruita Monument (20-3)

NEW: Fruita Monument

DROPPED OUT: Grandview

TEAMS TO WATCH: Aurora Central (20-3), Rangeview (19-4), Fossil Ridge (20-3), Fountain Fort Carson (16-6), Legend (17-6), Cherry Creek (16-7)

NOTES: It may not be fair to Denver East but a single loss cost the Angels seven spots in the rankings this week as we dropped them below the team that beat them in Highlands Ranch.  Despite the win over East, Highlands Ranch actually fell one spot as well as they suffered a league loss to Chaparral earlier in the week so they’re now eighth with Denver East ninth.  Those two results allowed Ralston Valley and Columbine to jump to sixth and seventh.  Columbine won the Jeffco championship by one game over Ralston Valley but we kept the Mustangs ahead of the Rebels since they won the second matchup between the two a couple of weeks ago.  Regis goes to the post-season as the team to beat as the three-time champions won three games to win the Continental crown and stretch their winning streak to 16 games.  Possibly joining them as number one seeds when the brackets are released on Sunday are Arapahoe, Chaparral and Fairview.  The Knights are the Front Range champions and will carry a 22-game winning streak into the post-season.

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CLASS 4A

1. Broomfield (22-1)
2. Lewis Palmer (21-1)
3. Sierra (22-1)
4. Sterling (21-1)
5. Valor Christian (20-2)
6. D’Evelyn (20-2)
7. Windsor (17-5)
8. Pueblo Central (16-7)
9. Montrose (19-4)
10. Coronado (18-5)

NEW: Pueblo Central

DROPPED OUT: Pueblo East

TEAMS TO WATCH: Kennedy (17-6), Wasson (15-8), Cheyenne Mountain (17-6), Sand Creek (15-7), Green Mountain (14-8), Thomas Jefferson (10-13), Longmont (16-7), Eagle Valley (18-5), Delta (17-5)

NOTES: Not many changes in the division as most of the highly ranked teams held serve during the week.  Pueblo East was dropped from the poll following a second loss to Pueblo Central and the Eagles were replaced in the rankings by the Wildcats who captured the South Central crown with that win.  Montrose, which lost to 5A Fruita Monument, and Coronado which lost to top ranked Lewis Palmer, both remained in the rankings since they suffered quality losses to bigger schools or teams ranked ahead of them.  Otherwise, the only movement in the rankings involved Valor Christian and D’Evelyn exchanging the fifth and sixth spot.  D’Evelyn moved ahead of Valor Christian last week after beating the Eagles to win the Jeffco regular season title but Valor Christian avenged the loss by beating the Jags in the final Jeffco tournament finals last Friday.  Look for the top four teams in our rankings to nail down the number one seeds when the state bracket is announced on Sunday.  We also expect Valor Christian, D’Evelyn and Windsor to earn number two seeds with the final top eight berth going to either Pueblo Central or Montrose.

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CLASS 3A

1. Colorado Springs Christian (19-0)
2. Faith Christian (17-2)
3. Valley (18-1)
4. Manitou Springs (17-2)
5. Manual (10-9)
6. Aspen (15-4)
7. Platte Valley (14-5)
8. Pagosa Springs (16-3)
9. Eaton (14-5)
10. Clear Creek (16-4)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: Pinnacle (15-6), Holy Family (12-7), Machebeuf (12-7), Peak to Peak (13-6), Mead (13-6), Alamosa (13-6), Dolores Huerta (14-5), Roaring Fork (13-6), Olathe (13-6)

NOTES:  While the top four teams remain unchanged from last week, there is movement throughout the rest of the rankings. The changes were created with a loss by Pagosa Springs to 2A Sanford and Platte Valley’s win over Eaton to claim second in the Patriot.  Pagosa Springs fell three spots to eighth allowing Manual, Aspen and Platte Valley to all climb closer to the top.  Aspen, which captured the Western Slope crown with two more wins and Platte Valley both bumped two spots.  Despite the loss at Platte Valley, Eaton remains in the rankings at number nine.  Clear Creek was one of the few high league finishers to advance out of the quarterfinals of the Frontier Tournament remains steady in tenth.  They face Pinnacle in the district semifinals on Friday and need two more wins to become of one eight host sites for the first two rounds of the state tournament.  If districts go as expected, which is never a good thing to predict, expect Colorado Springs Christian, Faith Christian, Valley, Manitou Springs, Aspen, Pagosa Springs and either Platte Valley or Manual to join Clear Creek as the top eight seeds.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (19-0)
2. Peyton (17-2)
3. Meeker (18-1)
4. Ignacio (15-4)
5. Sanford (16-3)
6. Resurrection Christian (17-2)
7. Byers (15-4)
8. Akron (15-3)
9. Limon (16-3)
10. Lutheran (11-8)

NEW: Byers

DROPPED OUT: Rye

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Wiggins (13-6), Burlington (13-6), Sargent (11-7), Hayden (13-6), Crowley County (14-5), Heritage Christian (15-4), Calhan (14-5)

NOTES:  It was another crazy week inside the classification as six of the top ten teams from last week were beaten at least once.  Rye suffered two losses and fell from the rankings and was replaced by Byers.  To the Thunderbolts defense, they had already clinched the Santa Fe championship and results from their last two games meant could not improve or hurt their district tournament seeding.  They will be the number one seed for District Six.  Byers took advantage of all the losses and a solid win over Limon to jump into the seventh spot.  The Bulldogs are the number two seed in District Eight thanks to their Friday night win over the Badgers.  Denver Christian and Peyton easily held onto to their top two spots in the rankings by scoring a total of five wins.  Meeker and Ignacio moved up to third and fourth as both Sanford and Resurrection Christian (#3 and #4 last week) were beaten.  Sanford lost to Sangre De Cristo on Friday but avoided a further fall by moving past Pagosa Springs the next night.  Resurrection Christian suffered their second loss to unbeaten Denver Christian.  Lutheran stayed in the rankings despite a 15 point loss to four-time reigning 3A state champion Faith Christian.  The difficult schedule the Lions have played will make them a difficult out in the post-season.

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CLASS 1A

1. Walsh (18-1)
2. Pawnee (17-1)
3. Sierra Grande (19-0)
4. Shining Mountain (17-2)
5. Caliche (16-3)
6. Simla (16-3)
7. Fleming (15-4)
8. Springfield (14-4)
9. Hi Plains (16-3)
10. Haxtun (11-7)

NEW: Haxtun

DROPPED OUT: Elbert

TEAMS TO WATCH: Stratton (12-7), McClave (15-4), Vail Christian (12-7), Plateau Valley (14-4), Cheyenne Wells (12-7)

NOTES: The same teams make up the top five this week but only top ranked Walsh stays in the same place as a week ago.  The Eagles cruised past Moscow KS and Kim to stay unbeaten against in-state opponents to remain in the top spot.  Caliche was ranked second last week but suffered a pair of losses to quality opponents falling to Haxtun in overtime on Friday before giving up a 12 point halftime lead at home in a Saturday loss to Pawnee.  That caused the Buffs to fall three spots to number five allowing Pawnee, Sierra Grande and Shining Mountain all to move up one position.  Sierra Grande and Shining Mountain both earned their highest ever ranking by Colorado Preps.  The Panthers, the only unbeaten team in 1A and the Lions are both overwhelming favorites to land district crowns this week.  Simla also have a good week as they picked up a nice win over Hi Plains (62-47).  That moved the Cubs back up to sixth and put them in position to earn a top three regional seed should they win a district crown as well.  Haxtun is the only new member to the rankings.  The Bulldogs beat out several deserving teams such as a Stratton, McClave, Vail Christian and Plateau Valley for the final spot in the rankings.  The win over Caliche pushed them ahead of those challengers.  Haxtun replaces Elbert who lost a game to Kiowa (2A) but also lost a key player to injury which will damage their post-season hopes.

CLASS 5A

1. Regis (17-3)
2. Denver East (17-3)
3. Arapahoe (18-2)
4. Chaparral (18-3)
5. Fairview (20-1)
6. ThunderRidge (15-6)
7. Highlands Ranch (18-2)
8. Grandview (14-6)
9. Ralston Valley (16-5)
10. Columbine (16-4)

NEW: Ralston Valley

DROPPED OUT: Fossil Ridge

TEAMS TO WATCH: Aurora Central (18-3), Fruita Monument (18-3), Fountain Fort Carson (14-6), Mountain Vista (15-6), Legend (15-6)

NOTES: After beating number one teams on consecutive Friday’s, Regis becomes the new number one team in the big school ranks.  The Raiders toppled Chaparral last Friday seven days after giving Highlands Ranch their first loss.  They now hold down first place in the Continental and based on their late surge, have moved past both Denver East and Arapahoe to take over the number one slot.  Denver East and Arapahoe who have both all but clinched conference championships remain second and third this week.  Fairview also moves up a spot to fifth as they stretched their winning streak to 20.  Ralston Valley replaces Fossil Ridge in the poll.  The Mustangs moved to within a game of Columbine in the Jeffco by beating the Rebels 63-61 last week while Fossil Ridge has lost two of their last four games.

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CLASS 4A

1. Broomfield (20-1)
2. Lewis Palmer (18-1)
3. Sierra (20-1)
4. Sterling (18-1)
5. D’Evelyn (18-1)
6. Valor Christian (17-2)
7. Windsor (15-5)
8. Montrose (18-3)
9. Pueblo East (17-4)
10. Coronado (16-4)

NEW: Pueblo East

DROPPED OUT: Pueblo Central

TEAMS TO WATCH: Pueblo West (13-7), Kennedy (15-5), Cheyenne Mountain (15-6), Sand Creek (13-7), Evergreen (13-6), Longmont (15-6), Eagle Valley (17-5), Delta (16-5), Palisade (16-5)

NOTES: Of course the biggest news in the 4A ranks last week were wins by Lewis Palmer and D’Evelyn.  The Rangers fought past Sierra (45-42) to claim first place in the Colorado Springs Metro while the Jaguars used a two point win over Valor Christian to claim the regular season title inside the Jeffco.  Those results caused major changes in the top five.  Lewis Palmer may be the best team in Class 4A right now but we kept them out of a top spot since they lost a one point overtime game to Broomfield in game one of the season.  Head-to-head results are still the major factor in ranking teams so the Eagles get the nod as the new number one team in the division with Lewis Palmer almost 1A.  Sterling could have taken over the top spot if not for a loss to 5A Lincoln.  It was the first loss of the season for the defending state champs and cost them two spots in the rankings.  Sierra fell two spots to third while D’Evelyn jumped to fifth because of the win over Valor Christian.  Pueblo East joins the poll after catching Pueblo Central in the South Central chase.  Those two battle on Tuesday to determine that championship.

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CLASS 3A

1. Colorado Springs Christian (17-0)
2. Faith Christian (15-2)
3. Valley (17-1)
4. Manitou Springs (15-2)
5. Pagosa Springs (15-2)
6. Manual (8-9)
7. Eaton (14-4)
8. Aspen (13-4)
9. Platte Valley (12-5)
10. Clear Creek (14-4)

NEW: Aspen, Platte Valley, Clear Creek

DROPPED OUT: Machebeuf, Holy Family, Peak to Peak

TEAMS TO WATCH: Dolores Huerta (13-5), Roaring Fork (11-6), Mead (12-6), Sheridan (13-4)

NOTES: Three new faces join the rankings this week as the Metro league continues to beat up on each other.  Manual, Machebeuf, Holy Family and Peak to Peak all lost to a conference opponent last week and three of them were dropped from the rankings because of it.  Only Manual, which fell from fourth to sixth, stayed in the rankings as their setback was a one point loss to red hot Lutheran (2A).  Replacing the Metro trio are Aspen, Platte Valley and Clear Creek.  Aspen recovered nicely from a loss to Olathe in the previous week to beat Roaring Fork and clinch the Western Slope crown.  Platte Valley is battling Eaton for second place behind Valley in the Patriot.  Those two meet up on Tuesday and the Broncos will carry an eight game winning streak into the week.  Clear Creek secured the Frontier title by beating Pinnacle (50-48) last week.  Pagosa Springs made the biggest climb, bumping up two spots to fifth.  The Pirates have won nine in a row and clinched another IML title with their win over Monte Vista last week.  They also collected a nice win over 2A Ignacio three days earlier.  Manitou Springs also jumped back to fourth with two wins and the loss by Manual.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (17-0)
2. Peyton (14-2)
3. Sanford (15-2)
4. Resurrection Christian (16-1)
5. Meeker (16-1)
6. Ignacio (14-4)
7. Akron (14-2)
8. Limon (14-2)
9. Rye (14-3)
10. Lutheran (10-7)

NEW: Lutheran

DROPPED OUT: Wiggins

TEAMS TO WATCH: Byers (13-4), Burlington (12-6), Hayden (12-6), Calhan (12-4), Heritage Christian (14-4), Custer County (10-4), Del Norte (13-5), Yuma (11-6)

NOTES: With Limon losing twice, the rankings are jumbled quite a bit this week as the Badgers moved down six positions from second to eighth.  The Badgers lost to Burlington by five points and Peyton by eight and both setbacks were critical to Limon’s chances at winning the Union Pacific and District Eight titles.  Ignacio (4^th last week) was another squad that suffered a loss.  The Bobcats late rally from a double digit deficit against Pagosa Springs fell short as they were beaten by a Colorado team for the first time all season.  That result cost the Bobcats two spots in the rankings.  Lutheran may be considered a surprise newcomer to the rankings as they replace Wiggins this week.  The Lions are only three games above five hundred for the season but currently sit tied with Manual one game behind Faith Christian in the rugged 3A/2A Metro conference.  Wiggins lost by just two points at home to Akron but with Lutheran’s recent play, it cost the Tigers their spot in the rankings.  Burlington may have been the team to replace Wiggins but the Cougars lost by two points to Hi Plains last Saturday to end their six game winning streak.

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CLASS 1A

1. Walsh (16-1)
2. Caliche (16-1)
3. Pawnee (15-1)
4. Sierra Grande (17-0)
5. Shining Mountain (16-2)
6. Hi Plains (16-1)
7. Springfield (13-3)
8. Simla (13-3)
9. Fleming (13-4)
10. Elbert (12-4)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: McClave (12-4), Vail Christian (10-7), Plateau Valley (11-4), Norwood (10-4), Deer Trail (11-5), Haxtun (10-7), Stratton (9-7), Cheyenne Wells (11-7)

NOTES: It was somewhat of a crazy week inside the 1A ranks as last week’s number one (Caliche) lost by 38 points to 2A Akron and Springfield (ranked 3^rd last week) suffered two losses.  The Longhorns fell to Walsh last Tuesday and then were surprised by Sierra Grande last Saturday.   With that in mind, Walsh becomes the number one team for the first time all season.  They led Springfield by 30 points at halftime on their way to an easy 22 point win over their arch-rivals.  Caliche fell just one spot as the three-time state champions have earned plenty of top ten credibility to prevent a farther drop.  Sierra Grande also made news with their win over Springfield.  The Panthers remained unbeaten with the win and it earned more attention statewide.  They leap-frogged Shining Mountain and into fourth this week; their highest ever ranking by Colorado Preps.  Springfield dropped four spots to third as Shining Mountain and Hi Plains both passed the Longhorns.  Hi Plains has won 12 straight including a nice 52-50 win over Burlington last week.  Elbert remains in the rankings despite a four point loss to Simla.  They’ve lost twice to the Cubs by a total of four points.

CLASS 5A

1. Chaparral  (17-2)
2. Denver East (14-3)
3. Arapahoe (16-2)
4. Regis (15-3)
5. Highlands Ranch (17-1)
6. Fairview (18-1)
7. Columbine (15-3)
8. ThunderRidge (14-5)
9. Fossil Ridge (17-2)
10. Grandview (12-6)

NEW:  Grandview

DROPPED OUT:  Fruita Monument

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Mountain Vista (13-6), Cherry Creek (11-6), Aurora Central (15-3), Rangeview (15-4), Chatfield (11-7), Ralston Valley (13-6)

NOTES:  Three-time defending state champion Regis made a big statement on Saturday easily moving past league rival and top ranked Highlands Ranch 76-60.  The loss of course knocked the Falcons out of the top spot and the win puts Regis right at the top of the state championship discussion once again.  Highlands Ranch dropped four spots to fifth behind Regis who along with Chaparral, Denver East, and Arapahoe all bumped up one spot.  Chaparral, the new number one, has won 13 in a row and faces Regis on Friday in game that will likely decide the Continental championship and a top four post-season seed.  ThunderRidge and Fossil Ridge both fell one spot with losses to teams ranked ahead of them.  The Grizzlies lost by just by seven to Chaparral while the Sabercats were blown out by Fairview (85-62).  Fruita Monument, ranked 10^th last week, fell from the rankings after they were beaten by Grand Junction.  The loss snapped the Wildcats 25-game conference winning streak and dropped them into a first place tie with 4A Montrose.  Replacing Fruita Monument in the rankings is Grandview.  The Wolves are third in the Centennial and trail Cherry Creek by one game but we gave them the nod over the Bruins since they beat them head-to-head in the first meeting.  Columbine made the biggest move of any team as the Rebels quietly jumped to seventh with the losses by Fossil Ridge and ThunderRidge.  The Rebels lead the Jeffco by two games.

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CLASS 4A

1. Sierra (19-0)
2. Sterling (16-0)
3. Valor Christian (15-1)
4. Broomfield (17-1)
5. Lewis Palmer (16-1)
6. D’Evelyn (16-1)
7. Windsor (12-5)
8. Coronado (15-3)
9. Montrose (17-3)
10. Pueblo Central (14-6)

NEW:  None

DROPPED OUT:  None

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Kennedy (13-4), Cheyenne Mountain (14-5), Evergreen (12-6), Golden (11-6), Longmont (12-5), Greeley Central (10-8), Pueblo East (15-4), Palisade (15-4), Eagle Valley (15-5), Delta (13-5)

NOTES:  Despite losses, Windsor, Coronado and Pueblo Central remain in the rankings this week.  Windsor, which lost a tough six point decision at home to Sterling and Coronado, which fell by ten to unbeaten Sierra, both remained in the same spots as a week ago since the losses came in narrow fashion to the top two teams in the rankings.  Coronado was scheduled to face 5^th ranked Lewis Palmer last week as well, but that contest was twice delayed because of the weather and a new make-up date has not been announced.  Pueblo Central ended an 11-game winning streak with a loss to Pueblo West and dropped one spot to tenth.  They stayed in the rankings ahead of a red hot Pueblo East team since they lead the Eagles by one game in the South Central and beat them head-to-head earlier in the season.  The Wildcats exchanged positions with Montrose who bumped to ninth by beating Montezuma Cortez and Durango.  They were also helped in their bid to win the Southwestern crown when Grand Junction upended Fruita Monument.  Montrose and Fruita are now tied for the league lead with the Wildcats winning round one.  The second matchup is in the final week of the season.  There are several huge games on the schedule this week including Sierra-Lewis Palmer, Valor Christian-D’Evelyn and Broomfield-Longmont.

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CLASS 3A

1. Colorado Springs Christian (15-0)
2. Faith Christian (13-2)
3. Valley (15-1)
4. Manual (7-8)
5. Manitou Springs (13-2)
6. Eaton (12-3)
7. Pagosa Springs (13-2)
8. Machebeuf (11-5)
9. Holy Family (10-5)
10. Peak to Peak (12-3)

NEW:  Machebeuf

DROPPED OUT:  Clear Creek

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Middle Park (11-4), Sheridan (11-4), Pinnacle (11-5), Aspen (12-4), La Junta (12-5), Platte Valley (9-5), Roaring Fork (10-5), Olathe (10-5), Alamosa (11-5)

NOTES:  It was somewhat of a crazy week again inside the classification as six teams from last week’s top ten were knocked off during the past week and that includes a schedule shortened by the winter storm through the state.  Among the victims last week were Faith Christian and Valley who have been ranked one-two in every poll until this week.  Faith Christian played without starting point guard Nathan Rindels in a two point loss to Manual while Valley was surprised on the road in the Patriot Saturday night in a three point loss to Highland.  Other teams who suffered losses were Manitou Springs, Holy Family, Peak to Peak and Clear Creek.  Normally we would have dropped Faith Christian behind Manual in the rankings but because the Eagles have won the last four state championships and lost by just two points despite not having a 20 point a game scorer in the lineup, we dropped them just one spot to second and ahead of Manual again this week.  Manual did bump up one spot to fourth with the win while Valley dropped just one position since so many teams behind them also were beaten.  The new number one is Colorado Springs Christian.  The Lions are the only unbeaten team remaining in Class 3A and basically clinched the Tri Peaks West title with a second narrow win over Manitou Springs.  They beat the Mustangs in double OT earlier this season and then scored a 48-45 decision last Tuesday.  The Mustangs, who have suffered their only two losses to the now top ranked Lions, dropped just one spot to fifth.  The second five is also jumbled with the losses by Holy Family, Peak to Peak and Clear Creek.  Clear Creek was surprised by Middle Park Thursday but recovered to beat Sheridan two nights later to keep the lead in the Frontier.  The loss though was enough to drop the Golddiggers from the rankings.  Holy Family fell four spots and Peak to Peak two because of losses to Machebeuf.  The Buffs recently lost four of five but have righted the ship with wins over Holy Family, Peak to Peak and Lutheran (2A).  They’re now tied with those three teams for third place in the Metro and since they’ve beaten all three, they’re in good shape for a top three league finish.  Eaton (+2) and Pagosa Springs (+3) took advantage of the losses to move closer to the top five.  The Reds have important games with Brush and University this week while Pagosa Springs wrapped up another IML title with their win over Alamosa last week.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (15-0)
2. Limon (13-0)
3. Peyton (11-2)
4. Ignacio (12-3)
5. Sanford (13-2)
6. Resurrection Christian (13-1)
7. Meeker (14-1)
8. Wiggins (10-5)
9. Akron (11-2)
10. Rye (12-3)

NEW:  None

DROPPED OUT:  None

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Calhan (10-4), Heritage Christian (12-3), Rocky Ford (11-4), Custer County (9-4), Burlington (11-5), Byers (10-4), Hayden (10-6), Lutheran (8-7), Yuma (9-6), Holyoke (8-6), Front Range Christian (12-4), Evangelical Christian (10-4)

NOTES:  When we reviewed the schedule for last week, we expected a major change in the rankings this week but with Mother Nature taking out almost all of the games over the weekend, the poll remains intact from last week.  Only five of the teams were able to play two games over the past seven days and two of the teams (Limon and Wiggins) did not even get on the court because of scheduling or the winter weather.  Denver Christian put together a statement win with a 32 point victory over a good Evangelical Christian squad.  That margin of victory only solidified the Crusaders as the team to beat in the post-season.  Ignacio stretched their winning streak to eight by beating Dolores and Ridgway.  They get a late season check-up against Pagosa Springs on Tuesday which will give both teams a nice test going into the playoffs.  Sanford kept their lead in the Southern Peaks by beating La Veta and Sargent and Resurrection Christian stayed one game back of Denver Christian in the Mile High by blasting Dayspring Christian (91-40).  Meeker picked up two more wins, including a hard fought eight point victory over Plateau Valley to stretch their winning streak to ten.  Akron held off Yuma in their only game of the week (55-52) and now preps for a Tuesday showdown with Wiggins.  The Tigers won the first matchup in impressive fashion (90-62).  Rye now has a two game lead in the Santa Fe and can actually clinch the championship with two wins this week.  They go to second place Rocky Ford on Thursday.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (14-0)
2. Walsh (13-1)
3. Springfield (12-1)
4. Pawnee (12-1)
5. Shining Mountain (14-2)
6. Sierra Grande (15-0)
7. Hi Plains (14-1)
8. Simla (10-2)
9. Elbert (11-3)
10. Fleming (11-3)

NEW:  Fleming

DROPPED OUT:  Cheyenne Wells

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Norwood (10-4), Haxtun (8-6), Deer Trail (9-4), Stratton (8-6), Plateau Valley (9-4), Vail Christian (9-6), Jim Elliot (12-3), Holly (9-5)

NOTES:  Much like Class 2A, a good share of the 1A schedule was postponed because of heavy snow and wind that moved through the Metro area and Eastern Colorado.  Because of the fewer games, there is only one change in the poll this week as Fleming replaces Cheyenne Wells.  Cheyenne Wells was upset by Stratton (48-45) and that cost the Tigers their spot.  Fleming moved up mainly because of their win over Pawnee in the previous week.  They’ve won four straight with their only losses coming against Caliche (twice) and Pawnee (split two games with them).  Other than Fleming, the only change involves Elbert who moves up one spot to ninth because of the loss by Cheyenne Wells.  The Bulldogs finally get their rematch with Simla this week.  They lost to the Cubs by just one point in the first meeting.  Sierra Grande also posted a quality win as they downed a very good 2A team (Del Norte) in impressive fashion, beating the Tigers by 17 points.  They however didn’t get their chance at third ranked Springfield as their Friday game was snowed out and we’re still waiting for word on if that game will be rescheduled.  Important games on tap this week start on Tuesday as 2^nd ranked Walsh and 3^rd ranked Springfield collide for the league championship and the top seed for District Three.  Another big game is on Thursday with top ranked Caliche going to 9^th ranked Akron (2A).  Hi Plains also has a difficult week as they meet Cheyenne Wells and Burlington before closing with Yuma and Simla in the final week.

CLASS 5A

1. Highlands Ranch (16-0)
2. Chaparral (15-2)
3. Denver East (12-3)
4. Arapahoe (15-2)
5. Regis (13-3)
6. Fairview (16-1)
7. ThunderRidge (13-4)
8. Fossil Ridge (16-1)
9. Columbine (15-3)
10. Fruita Monument (15-2)

NEW: Columbine, Fruita Monument

DROPPED OUT: Mountain Vista, Eaglecrest

TEAMS TO WATCH: Loveland (11-5), Aurora Central (14-4), Fountain Fort Carson (10-6), Grandview (11-6), Cherry Creek (11-6), Rangeview (14-4)

NOTES: Mountain Vista and Eaglecrest both lost twice in conference play and because of those losses, both were knocked out of the top ten.  The Golden Eagles opened the week tied for the Continental league but after losses to Regis and ThunderRidge are now alone in fifth place at 3-2.  Eaglecrest had won four straight before back-to-back double-digit losses to Arapahoe and Cherry Creek.  They’re now in fourth place in the Centennial and four games behind first place Arapahoe.  Those two losses allowed Fossil Ridge to bump up two spots.  The Sabercats will put their 15-game winning streak on the line Tuesday against Fairview in a highly anticipated matchup that will determine the overall leader in the Front Range.  Fairview joined all other members of the top seven in posting an undefeated week and stay in the same position as a week ago.  The newest members of the rankings are Columbine and Fruita Monument.  The Rebels have won nine a row and sit alone atop the Jeffco while Fruita Monument picked up an important win over 4A #10 Montrose last Tuesday to secure sole possession of first in the Southwestern league.  They have matched Columbine’s nine game winning streak.

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CLASS 4A

1. Sierra (16-0)
2. Sterling (15-0)
3. Valor Christian (15-1)
4. Broomfield (16-10
5. Lewis Palmer (15-1)
6. D’Evelyn (15-1)
7. Windsor (12-4)
8. Coronado (15-2)
9. Pueblo Central (11-4)
10. Montrose (15-3)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: Cheyenne Mountain (14-4), Pueblo East (13-4), Wasson (9-7), Longmont (11-5), Kennedy (12-4), Evergreen (11-6), Greeley Central (9-8)

NOTES: Since the top nine teams all went 2-0 during the past week keeping them in the same order was an easy job but deciding a tenth proved difficult.  Montrose was ranked 10^th last week but lost last Tuesday to Fruita Monument before rebounding with a nice road win at Grand Junction last Friday.  Since both games were against quality 5A opponents and the fact that Montrose is the top 4A team in the conference, we kept the Indians in the rankings ahead of such teams as Cheyenne Mountain, Pueblo East, Wasson and Longmont.  Each one of those two teams has already suffered at least two leagues and trails their league leaders by at least the same two game margin.  Wasson would also get consideration ahead of Cheyenne Mountain since they beat the Indians head-to-head but the Thunderbirds are hurt by their 9-7 overall record.  They are however 6-3 since Christmas with losses to league unbeatens Sierra, Lewis Palmer and Coronado so their schedule has been a difficult one giving them serious consideration for the rankings this week.  It’s the same situation in the Northern conference where Greeley Central has a lesser record than Longmont but would receive rankings attention first since they beat the Trojans head-to-head and the two are tied for second behind first place Broomfield.

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CLASS 3A

1. Faith Christian (13-1)
2. Valley (14-0)
3. Colorado Springs Christian (14-0)
4. Manitou Springs (13-1)
5. Manual (5-8)
6. Holy Family (9-4)
7. Eaton (10-3)
8. Peak to Peak (12-2)
9. Clear Creek (11-3)
10. Pagosa Springs (11-2)

NEW: Pagosa Springs

DROPPED OUT: Aspen

TEAMS TO WATCH: Alamosa (11-4), Sheridan (10-3), Platte Valley (8-5), Roaring Fork (8-5)

NOTES: A different result for two teams that went through the same situation last week.  Both Holy Family and Aspen suffered losses against 4A opponents but while the Tigers stayed put at number six, Aspen dropped from ninth to outside the rankings.  The difference involves the level of opponent and the margin of victory.  Holy Family lost to #5 Broomfield by just seven points while Aspen fell by 27 points at unranked Palisade.  As a result, the Skiers are no longer in the top ten as they’ve been replaced by Pagosa Springs who has five straight and sit tied with Alamosa for the Intermountain conference lead.  Those two teams collide on Friday in a game that could determine the league championship but Pagosa gets the nod this week since they topped the Moose in their first meeting.  Aspen, despite the loss, maintained their two game edge in the Western Slope thanks to a good win over Hotchkiss last Saturday.  Holy Family was able to maintain their sixth spot based on a head-to-head win over 7^th ranked Eaton very early in the season.  Clear Creek is a third top ten squad in a different spot this week.  The Golddiggers were able to bump up one spot to ninth and they will try to hold that position by winning at Sheridan on Friday.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (13-0)
2. Limon (13-0)
3. Peyton (10-2)
4. Ignacio (11-3)
5. Sanford (11-2)
6. Resurrection Christian (12-1)
7. Meeker (12-1)
8. Wiggins (10-5)
9. Akron (10-2)
10. Rye (10-3)

NEW: Rye

DROPPED OUT: Byers

TEAMS TO WATCH: Calhan (9-4), Burlington (10-5), Custer County (8-4), Del Norte (9-4), Yuma (9-5), West Grand (9-3), Hayden (8-5), Crowley County (10-3), Heritage Christian (11-3), Evangelical Christian (10-3)

NOTES: It was almost a great weekend for the Byers Bulldogs.  They almost upset 3^rd ranked Peyton on the road Friday night but fell in triple overtime in maybe the best of the game in any class this year.  A win there would likely have shot the Bulldogs up two or three positions but after arriving home early Saturday morning, had an early wake up call for the trek east to Burlington where they also lost to a suddenly red-hot Cougar ball club.  So instead of maybe moving into the top five, the Bulldogs sit outside the rankings because of those two difficult losses.  Replacing them in the rankings is Rye.  The Thunderbolts have caught fire as well with four straight wins to take over sole possession of the Santa Fe lead.  They sit at 10-3 overall and will be favored against John Mall and Las Animas this weekend.  Wiggins and Akron took advantage of the Byers losses to each bump up one spot.  Each team picked up two double-digit wins over the weekend and they continue to work toward their rematch a week from Tuesday (February 7^th).  There was also a minor change in the top five as Ignacio and Sanford exchanged fourth and fifth.  The Indians dropped just one spot to fifth due to a road loss at Pagosa Springs but both they and Ignacio remain unbeaten against 2A opponents.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (13-0)
2. Walsh (11-1)
3. Springfield (11-1)
4. Pawnee (12-1)
5. Shining Mountain (12-2)
6. Sierra Grande (14-0)
7. Hi Plains (13-1)
8. Simla (10-3)
9. Cheyenne Wells (10-4)
10. Elbert (10-3)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: Fleming (10-3), Vail Christian (7-5), McClave (9-3), Norwood (8-4), Haxtun (7-6), Deer Trail (7-4), Stratton (7-6)

NOTES: Fleming is easily the hard luck team this week.  Despite a nice 39-32 win over previously 2^nd ranked Pawnee, we were unable to find room in the rankings for the Wildcats.  They improved to 10-3 with the win with all three losses to unbeaten teams Caliche (twice) and Pawnee in the first meeting.   Simla was the most likely team to drop out of the rankings since the Cubs lost twice but their losses were against Limon (#2 in 2A) and on the road to Shining Mountain.  The Cubs played both of those games without their second leading scorer plus they have a win over both Cheyenne Wells and Elbert this year so we felt we needed to keep them in the rankings ahead of those two teams.  Two games this week should make room for Fleming if the Wildcats keep winning as Simla meets Elbert in a rematch while Springfield tangles with Sierra Grande.  With Pawnee’s loss, both Walsh and Springfield bump up one spot to second and third respectively.  Shining Mountain bumped up just one spot as they remain behind Pawnee in fifth.

CLASS 5A

1. Highlands Ranch (14-0)
2. Chaparral (13-2)
3. Denver East (10-3)
4. Arapahoe (13-2)
5. Regis (11-3)
6. Fairview (13-1)
7. ThunderRidge (11-4)
8. Mountain Vista (12-3)
9. Eaglecrest (10-4)
10. Fossil Ridge (13-1)

DROPPED OUT:  Cherry Creek

NEW: Fossil Ridge

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Grandview (10-5), Rangeview (12-4), Aurora Central (11-3), Fruita Monument (13-2), Prairie View (8-5), Legend (11-4)

NOTES:  Other than a couple of losses in league play by ThunderRidge and Cherry Creek, this past week in the big school ranks was uneventful.  ThunderRidge was upended by three-time defending state champion Regis (67-46) as some of the highly ranked teams in the Continental began to square off.  The Grizzlies dropped just three spots in the poll as they recovered to beat Rock Canyon (64-48) just three nights later.  Cherry Creek lost twice within the Centennial and were not able to stay in the rankings.  The Bruins opened the week tied with Arapahoe for the conference lead but are now two games back of the Warriors because of losses to Arapahoe (69-64) and Grandview (66-65).  Replacing the Bruins is a Fossil Ridge team seeking statewide respect.  They’ve won 12 in a row since a six point loss to four-time defending champion Faith Christian (3A) in early December.  Only two of their wins are by less than ten points as they mowed through the Front Range much like Fairview.  Arapahoe, Regis and Fairview were all able to bump up one spot with the loss by ThunderRidge.  The same with Mountain Vista and Eaglecrest as Cherry Creek fell from the poll.

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CLASS 4A

1. Sierra (14-0)
2. Sterling (13-0)
3. Valor Christian (13-1)
4. Broomfield (13-1)
5. Lewis Palmer (12-1)
6. D’Evelyn (13-1)
7. Windsor (10-4)
8. Coronado (12-2)
9. Pueblo Central (9-4)
10. Montrose (14-2)

DROPPED OUT: Cheyenne Mountain, Longmont

NEW: Pueblo Central, Montrose

TEAMS TO WATCH: Evergreen (10-5), Wasson (7-6), Greeley Central (7-7), Pueblo East (12-4), Thomas Jefferson (6-01), Kennedy (10-4), Palisade (12-4)

NOTES:  At this point of the season, it’s difficult to imagine the state champion coming from outside the top six teams in our rankings.  All five teams have been very consistent this year and very dominant at times.  Sierra and Sterling are unbeaten overall while Valor Christian, Broomfield and D’Evelyn are perfect against teams in Class 4A.  Lewis Palmer, which may be playing the best basketball of any team in any class right now, has won 13 straight in overwhelming fashion since a one point overtime loss to Broomfield to open the season.  In two victories last week, the Rangers averaged 98 points and won by a combined 128 points over Harrison and Woodland Park. Pueblo Central and Montrose are two newcomers to the rankings.  They take over spots vacated by Cheyenne Mountain, which lost to Wasson and Longmont, which dropped a key Northern league game to Greeley Central.  Pueblo Central has won eight straight overall including five in league play to open a two game edge in the South Central.  The Montrose winning streak stretched to ten games with wins over Battle Mountain and Grand Junction Central.  Tied with Fruita Monument atop the Southwestern League, the Indians will face the Wildcats Tuesday in a game to determine first place.

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CLASS 3A

1. Faith Christian (11-1)
2. Valley (12-0)
3. Colorado Springs Christian (11-0)
4. Manitou Springs (12-1)
5. Manual (4-8)
6. Holy Family (8-3)
7. Eaton (8-3)
8. Peak to Peak (10-2)
9. Aspen (9-2)
10. Clear Creek (8-4)

DROPPED OUT: Alamosa, Machebeuf

NEW: Aspen, Clear Creek

TEAMS TO WATCH: Pagosa Springs (9-2), University (8-4), Centauri (10-3), La Junta (7-4), Jefferson Academy (6-5)

NOTES:  After the first four teams, it’s nearly impossible to rank the division this week.  Last week we asked the question if a team in Metro would step up and challenge four-time defending state champion Faith Christian for the conference crown or if the large number of quality teams would spend the final five weeks of the regular season beating up on one another.  The answer at least last week was the later.  In the past seven days, Machebeuf beat Manual but then was upset by Englewood; Peak to Peak lost to Holy Family but then beat Kent Denver while Manual topped Holy Family before suffering the loss to Machebeuf.  Jefferson Academy also made it a completely wild week inside the Metro when they pushed Faith Christian before falling by just two points (42-40).  With that in mind, we moved Manual up one spot to fifth and dropped Holy Family to sixth since the Thunderbolts won the head-to-head meeting.  Eaton and Peak to Peak stayed put at seventh and eighth since they both lost to teams ranked ahead of them.  The Reds fell to Valley by just six points (46-40).  Alamosa and Machebeuf also suffered losses but were dropped from the rankings since they were beaten by unranked opponents (Pagosa Springs and Englewood).  Joining the poll this week are both Aspen and Clear Creek.  Of the teams challenging for a spot in the rankings, they’ve been the most consistent over the past couple of weeks.  Aspen has won nine in a row since getting healthy and took a two game lead in the Western Slope with their win over Grand Valley on Saturday.  Clear Creek has won four in a row and took over first place in the Frontier by taking out Denver Science (73-70).  They moved past Pagosa Springs and Centauri for the final spot in the poll.  Pagosa Springs has lost two of their last six while Centauri snapped a six game winning streak with a loss at Bayfield.  University was also considered as the Bulldogs are tied with Valley for the Patriot lead but losses to Lutheran and Pinnacle plus lopsided defeats to Holy Family (21) and Kent Denver (26) hurt their chances.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (11-0)
2. Limon (12-0)
3. Peyton (8-2)
4. Sanford (10-1)
5. Ignacio (10-3)
6. Resurrection Christian (10-1)
7. Meeker (10-1)
8. Byers (8-2)
9. Wiggins (8-4)
10. Akron (8-2)

DROPPED OUT: Crowley County

NEW: Byers

TEAMS TO WATCH: Evangelical Christian (9-2), Yuma (8-4), Holyoke (7-4), Rocky Ford (8-3), Rye (8-3), West Grand (8-2), Heritage Christian (9-2), Custer County (7-4), Lutheran (6-6)

NOTES:  If one had any doubt that Denver Christian is the best team in Class 2A, that doubt was likely removed on Saturday as the Crusaders scored a rousing 65-46 road win at Resurrection Christian.  If Coach Dick Katte’s team upends Kent Denver for a second time this season on Tuesday, they have a great chance at finishing the season without a loss.  They also face Resurrection Christian again in the regular season finale but based on their effort last Saturday and the fact they’ll be at home, the Crusaders will be prohibitive favorites.    Resurrection Christian tumbled three spots with the near 20 point home loss to sixth while Peyton, Sanford and Ignacio all climbed one spot in the rankings.  All three teams had good weeks.  Sanford took control of the Southern Peaks chase with their win over Custer County on Saturday while Peyton collected a very important district win over Calhan.  Ignacio stayed perfect against in-state teams by beating Mancos and Telluride.  The second five is also jumbled a bit as Wiggins, Akron and Crowley County all suffered losses.  Wiggins was outscored at home by an improving Holyoke squad (74-72) on Friday night while Akron came up short to Haxtun (71-67).  Because both were quality losses, the Tigers and Rams were able to stay in the rankings again this week.  Crowley County, which played and lost to both Fowler and Rye without second leading scorer Elijah Martinez, fell from the tenth spot and was replaced by Byers.  The Bulldogs have won eight in a row and edged Evangelical Christian for the final berth because of their four point win at ECA in December.  Both Yuma and Holyoke were also given consideration for the rankings but the Indians came up short against Akron on Saturday and Holyoke lost at Yuma last Tuesday.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (10-0)
2. Pawnee (11-0)
3. Walsh (10-1)
4. Springfield (9-1)
5. Shining Mountain (10-2)
6. Simla (10-1)
7. Sierra Grande (12-0)
8. Hi Plains (11-1)
9. Cheyenne Wells (7-4)
10. Elbert (8-3)

DROPPED OUT: Fleming, Holly

NEW: Cheyenne Wells, Elbert

TEAMS TO WATCH: Haxtun (6-4), Norwood (7-4), Vail Christian (5-4), Plateau Valley (7-2), McClave (9-3), Prairie (7-4), Bethune (7-2), Cotopaxi (8-1), Deer Trail (7-4)

NOTES:  With narrow wins over Fleming and Haxtun early in the season, three-time defending champion Caliche looked beatable, but following an eye-popping 30 point win over a good Fleming team on Friday, it appears the Buffs have thoughts of a fourth consecutive crown.  The win may have been their best effort of the season and gives Coach Randy Kirkwood’s team plenty of momentum as they push for the Lower Platte title over the next few weeks.    The remaining teams in the top six have also been solid and they appear to be the best teams to unseat Caliche atop the classification.  Pawnee has won every game by at least 13 points and they get a shot at Fleming this Friday night.  Walsh scored a nice district win over Holly (51-38) and remains unbeaten against in-state foes.  Springfield’s quality win over McClave was their sixth straight since a loss to Walsh.  Shining Mountain is facing little competition in rolling to a 10-2 mark but that will change on Saturday when they face Simla.  That contest finishes off a difficult week for a Cubs team that has won ten straight as they also face Limon on Thursday.  Sierra Grande moved up to seventh this week.  Like Shining Mountain, the Panthers have not faced an overly difficult schedule but they have picked up a game with Springfield (defending state runners-up) on February 3^rd which will help them get ready for a post-season push.  They also face a good Cotopaxi team this Saturday.  Hi Plains also took advantage of the losses by Fleming and Holly to bump up two spots to eighth.  The Patriots get a nice test with Bethune who also received consideration for the top ten this week.   Cheyenne Wells and Elbert are the two newcomers to the rankings.  Cheyenne Wells has won four straight and pushed both Simla and Springfield earlier this year in identical four point losses.  Elbert has won three of four and played Simla to a one point decision with their other two setbacks coming against 2A opponents (Custer County and Front Range Christian).  They edged Haxtun for the tenth spot.  The Bulldogs were kept out because of a loss to Fleming about ten days ago.

CLASS 5A

1. Highlands Ranch (10-0)
2. Chaparral (11-2)
3. Denver East (9-3)
4. ThunderRidge (10-3)
5. Arapahoe (11-2)
6. Regis (9-3)
7. Fairview (10-1)
8. Cherry Creek (9-4)
9. Mountain Vista (10-3)
10. Eaglecrest (8-4)

DROPPED OUT:  Ralston Valley, Grandview

NEW:  Mountain Vista, Eaglecrest

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Dakota Ridge (8-5), Columbine (10-3), Fossil Ridge (10-1), Fruita Monument (10-2), Aurora Central (9-3), Mullen (8-4), Rangeview (10-4)

NOTES:  Ralston Valley and Grandview were both ranked in the top five last week but neither can be found in the rankings this week after each were beaten twice in the past seven days.  Ralston Valley was surprised by Standley Lake by one point and by Columbine in overtime as they suffered their first in-state losses of the season.  They tumbled to third behind Dakota Ridge and Columbine in what’s been a crazy Jeffco league race thus far.  Grandview now finds themselves two games back of Cherry Creek and Arapahoe in the Centennial tied with Eaglecrest and Mullen in third.  Taking advantage of the Ralston and Grandview struggles were several teams as ThunderRidge, Arapahoe, Regis, Fairview and Cherry Creek bumped two spots apiece.  Newcomers are Mountain Vista and Eaglecrest.  The Golden Eagles have won seven in a row since a six point loss to Standley Lake and Eaglecrest collected an important league win over Cherokee Trail and then knocked off Grandview last Saturday.  Several other teams received consideration including Aurora Central but they lost to Thomas Jefferson two nights before collecting an impressive win over Rangeview; the second time they’ve beaten the Raiders this season.  Dakota Ridge and Columbine were also reviewed with Dakota Ridge gaining the edge since they beat the Rebels head to head, but were left out because of a four point loss to Pomona last week.  The top three spots are unchanged as the Falcons, Wolverines and Angels went a combined 5-0 since the last poll was released.

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CLASS 4A

1. Sierra
2. Sterling
3. Valor Christian
4. Broomfield
5. Lewis Palmer
6. D’Evelyn
7. Cheyenne Mountain
8. Windsor
9. Longmont
10. Coronado

DROPPED OUT:  Green Mountain

NEW:  Coronado

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Montrose (12-2), Palisade (10-2), Golden (8-4), Evergreen (8-4), Pueblo Central (7-4), Canon City (9-4), Pueblo East (11-3), Kennedy (10-3)

NOTES:  Movement in the poll was caused by losses from Valor Christian, Green Mountain and Longmont.  While Green Mountain was beaten in conference play by both D’Evelyn and Evergreen to drop out of the rankings, the Eagles and Trojans suffered only a minor drop because of losses to 5A Legend (Valor Christian) and Broomfield (Longmont).  Longmont battled the Eagles from start to finish before falling by eight points (55-47) but that loss cost them only one spot in the rankings.  Valor Christian dropped just two positions to third because their loss to Legend is considered a quality loss.  Sierra, which rolled past Harrison (64-39) and Woodland Park (68-28) is the new number one while defending state champion Sterling also bumped one position after beating Frederick (53-33) and Fort Morgan (65-47) to stay unbeaten.  Spots four through six remain unchanged as Broomfield and Lewis Palmer have won a combined 19 consecutive games.  D’Evelyn was held to a season low 44 points in their win over Green Mountain but then scored a season high 105 points in the blowout of Summit.  Cheyenne Mountain and Windsor both climbed two spots by combining for five wins.  Coronado is the newest member of the rankings.  The Cougars scored quality wins over Falcon, Air Academy and Sand Creek stretching their winning streak to eight games while staying tied for first in a very good Colorado Springs Metro conference. 

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CLASS 3A

1. Faith Christian (8-1)
2. Valley (10-0)
3. Colorado Springs Christian (9-0)
4. Manitou Springs (10-1)
5. Holy Family (7-2)
6. Manual (4-4)
7. Eaton (7-2)
8. Peak to Peak (9-1)
9. Alamosa (8-3)
10. Machebeuf (7-2)

DROPPED OUT:  Pagosa Springs

NEW:  Alamosa

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Centauri (10-2), Sheridan (7-2), Aspen (7-2), Denver Science (6-3), Clear Creek (6-4), Middle Park (6-2), La Junta (7-4)

NOTES:  It was a very exciting week in Class 3A where several great matchups went down to the wire.  It began on Tuesday with Colorado Springs Christian rallying past Manitou Springs (76-69) in double overtime and then continued to the weekend where Centauri upset Pagosa Springs (ranked 6^th last week) 52-50 and Eaton stunned Machebeuf (71-70) with two free throws in the final second.  Valley also stayed perfect on Friday but barely as they survived an upset bid by Mead before winning 38-34.  Effects on the poll with those results were mixed.  We kept Manitou Springs in the fourth spot despite the loss to CS Christian since the Mustangs have a head-to-head win over 5^th ranked Holy Family.  Centauri was bypassed by league rival Alamosa for the open spot left with the loss by Pagosa Springs.  While Alamosa has one more loss, the Moose in our minds have played a more difficult schedule while the Falcons have a costly loss to 1A Sierra Grande before Christmas.  Centauri has won six in a row and Alamosa six of their last seven.  The Moose lost to Manitou Springs by just eight points early in the season and played well in narrow losses to 4A opponents Montrose (4 point loss) and Canon City (3).  Machebeuf stayed put at number ten since they played so well and almost pulled off the upset at Eaton on Saturday.  Another interesting situation has occurred with Manual.  On the court, they’re 8-0 but this week they had to forfeit four of their wins due to the use of an ineligible player.  We’re keeping the Thunderbolts in the rankings this week and moved them up one spot to sixth but we’ll investigate which player or players caused the forfeits and then determine if or how we’ll change Manual’s position inside the poll. 

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (9-0)
2. Limon (10-0)
3. Resurrection Christian (9-0)
4. Peyton (6-2)
5. Sanford (8-1)
6. Ignacio (8-3)
7. Wiggins (8-3)
8. Akron (7-1)
9. Meeker (8-1)
10. Crowley County (8-1)

DROPPED OUT:  Rye

NEW:  Wiggins

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Byers (8-2), Holyoke (6-3), Evangelical Christian (7-2), Rocky Ford (6-3), Custer County (6-3), Lutheran (5-5)

NOTES:  Rye is the hard luck team in the rankings this week as the Thunderbolts were dropped from the fifth spot all the way out of the top ten because of a loss to Rocky Ford.  Normally one loss wouldn’t affect a top five team that much but we had to make room for Wiggins after the Tigers demolished Akron on Friday (90-62).  The Tigers have reached the 2A state tournament each of the past two years and two of their losses on the season are against unbeaten teams (Caliche and Resurrection Christian) with the third loss coming against Yuma only a few days after the Tigers competed in the 1A football finals.  With their 90 point explosion at Akron last week, Wiggins easily returned to the rankings in seventh vaulting past Meeker and Crowley County as well.  Rye is also hurt by the injury to Denton Keys who averaged 25 points a game in the three games he played.  We’re not sure how well the Thunderbolts will fare long-term without him in the lineup.  Peyton, Sanford and Ignacio all moved up two spots because of the losses by Rye and Akron.  Peyton has won three in a row since a loss to Manitou Springs; Sanford has four straight wins and picked up an important league victory over Del Norte last Friday while Ignacio is unbeaten against in-state teams.  Meeker struggled to a four point win at 1-7 Paonia Saturday after taking out a good Plateau Valley team the night before.  Crowley County stretched their winning streak to six and is alone atop the Santa Fe after wins over Rocky Ford and John Mall.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (8-0)
2. Pawnee (9-0)
3. Walsh (8-1)
4. Springfield (7-1)
5. Shining Mountain (8-2)
6. Simla (8-1)
7. Fleming (7-2)
8. Sierra Grande (10-0)
9. Holly (5-2)
10. Hi Plains (9-1)

DROPPED OUT:  Haxtun

NEW:  Hi Plains (9-1)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  McClave (8-2), Vail Christian (5-4), Cheyenne Wells (5-4), Elbert (6-3), Prairie (6-3), Deer Trail (6-3), Cotopaxi (7-1)

NOTES:  The most consistent rankings this week can be found in Class 1A where most of the teams were able to stay in the same position as a week ago and the poll includes only one newcomer this week.  Walsh (2^nd last week) and Haxtun (10^th last week) were the only squads to suffer a loss and both were quality losses.  Walsh dropped just one position following a loss to a 2A school from Kansas on the road (Stanton County) and as we’ve stated before, an out of state loss does not cost a team nearly as much as an in-state setback.  The Eagles stayed ahead of Springfield since they beat Longhorns head-to-head in December.  Haxtun lost on the road at 7^th ranked Fleming last Thursday and were replaced in the rankings by Hi Plains who seemingly has recovered from a surprising loss to Kit Carson with five straight wins.  They barely edged McClave for the 10^th spot but the Cardinals, who play at Springfield on Saturday, have a chance for a return to the rankings with a win there.  Caliche stayed in the top spot with tough wins at Prairie (77-60) and at home against 2A Wray (64-60).  Pawnee also beat Prairie (68-42) during the week and added a win over Pine Bluffs WY (68-55).  Shining Mountain stayed solid as a top five team with their win over 2A Alexander Dawson.  It was one of the Lions rare regular season challenges but they do have a game with Simla on the 28^th.  Simla barely survived an upset scare by an Elbert Bulldogs team (55-54) that has lost a one point game each of the past two weeks.

CLASS 5A

#1 Highlands Ranch beat Littleton 73-43

#2 Chaparral (Did Not Play)

#3 Denver East vs Doherty

#4 Ralston Valley (Did Not Play)

Eaglecrest beat #5 Grandview 59-47

#6 ThunderRidge beat Heritage 66-35

#7 Arapahoe beat Mullen 65-61

#8 Regis beat Castle View 82-41

#9 Fairview beat Horizon 68-57

#10 Cherry Creek beat Overland 67-39

CLASS 4A

#1 Valor Christian beat Elizabeth 89-52

#2 Sierra beat Woodland Park 68-28

#3 Sterling beat Fort Morgan 65-47

#4 Broomfield beat #8 Longmont 55-47

#5 Lewis Palmer beat Wasson 74-54

#6 D’Evelyn beat Summit 105-32

Evergreen beat #7 Green Mountain 56-44

#9 Cheyenne Mountain (Did Not Play)

#10 Windsor beat Skyline 77-47

CLASS 3A

#1 Faith Christian (Did Not Play)

#2 Valley beat Mead 38-34

#3 Colorado Springs Christian beat Buena Vista 72-38

#4 Manitou Springs beat Salida 55-42

#5 Holy Family (Did Not Play)

Centauri beat #6 Pagosa Springs 52-50

#8 Eaton beat Estes Park 63-56

#9 Peak to Peak beat Denver West 85-75

#10 Machebeuf (Did Not Play)

CLASS 2A

#1 Denver Christian beat William Smith 79-27

#2 Limon beat Flagler 84-19

#3 Resurrection Christian beat Alexander Dawson 75-34

Wiggins beat #4 Akron 90-62

#5 Rye beat Las Animas 58-49

#6 Peyton beat Kiowa 62-52

#7 Sanford beat Del Norte 45-42

#8 Ignacio beat Norwood 57-36

#9 Meeker beat Plateau Valley 59-42

#10 Crowley County beat Rocky Ford 65-58

CLASS 1A

#1 Caliche beat Wray 64-60

#2 Walsh (Did Not Play)

#3 Pawnee beat Pine Bluffs WY 68-55

#4 Springfield (Did Not Play)

#5 Shining Mountain (Did Not Play)

#6 Simla (Did Not Play)

#7 Fleming beat Peetz 71-34

#8 Sierra Grande (Did Not Play)

#9 Holly at South Baca

#10 Haxtun beat Creek Valley NE 54-48

CLASS 5A

1. Highlands Ranch (10-0)
2. Chaparral (9-2)
3. Denver East (8-3)
4. Ralston Valley (8-2)
5. Grandview (8-3)
6. ThunderRidge (9-3)
7. Arapahoe (9-2)
8. Regis (7-3)
9. Fairview (8-1)
10. Cherry Creek (7-4)

NEW:  Cherry Creek

DROPPED OUT:  Eaglecrest

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Mountain Vista (8-3), Aurora Central (9-2), Rangeview (9-3), Fossil Ridge (7-1), Rocky Mountain (7-2), Legend (8-2), Rampart (6-4), Dakota Ridge (6-4), Fruita Monument (8-2)

NOTES:  As the lone unbeaten team in the big school ranks, Highlands Ranch takes over the top spot this week.  The Falcons were ranked second last week but bumped up a notch because of Chaparral’s win over Denver East on Saturday.  That result created the change in the top three.  The Wolverines actually improved by two positions as Eaglecrest (ranked 3^rd last week) lost twice and completely dropped out of the rankings.  Those losses allowed several teams to move up the poll either one or two spots including Ralston Valley and Grandview who make up the final two berths in the top five.  Cherry Creek, which beat Eaglecrest (41-31) in the league opener for both team last week, moved into the rankings at number ten.  They edged out Mountain Vista for the final spot. 

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CLASS 4A

1. Valor Christian (9-0)
2. Sierra (10-0)
3. Sterling (8-0)
4. Broomfield (8-1)
5. Lewis Palmer (8-1)
6. D’Evelyn (9-1)
7. Green Mountain (7-4)
8. Longmont (6-4)
9. Cheyenne Mountain (7-3)
10. Windsor (6-4)

NEW:  Green Mountain, Longmont

DROPPED OUT:  Pueblo East, Thomas Jefferson

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Golden (6-4), Pueblo Central (5-4), Montrose (10-2), Palisade (8-2), Coronado (7-2)

NOTES:  It was a mixed bag for the top ten as teams holding down the top six spots all went through the week without a loss while teams seventh through tenth all suffered at least one loss.  That trend may continue through much of the season as the top six seem to be a step ahead and maybe more consistent than the rest of the division.  Of the top six, Sterling likely posted the best win as they whipped Windsor (64-46) on Friday to take the early lead in the Tri Valley.  Those two meet again later in the season.  Despite the loss, Windsor stayed in the rankings at number ten.  They’re just 6-4 but three of the losses have come against ranked teams.  It’s the same case with Cheyenne Mountain.  They were upset by Air Academy (53-51) on Friday but stayed in rankings since their other two losses are against Sterling and Valor Christian.  Pueblo East and Thomas Jefferson were dropped from the rankings.  TJ lost two of three and now sit at just 5-7 for the season.  East is a hard luck case.  They lost at Canon City but played the game without their leading scorer so we expect them to make a quick return to the top ten.  Air Academy’s win over Cheyenne Mountain serves as another indication of the separation of the top six teams from the rest of the division.  They beat then 7^th ranked Cheyenne Mountain (53-51) just three nights after losing to 5^th ranked Lewis Palmer by 40.  Green Mountain and Longmont are newcomers this week.  The Rams have won three in a row and are unbeaten against 4A teams.  Longmont started 0-2 but has won four in a row since a loss to Denver South.  They challenge Broomfield on Friday.

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CLASS 3A

1. Faith Christian (7-1)
2. Valley (8-0)
3. Colorado Springs Christian (6-0)
4. Manitou Springs (9-0)
5. Holy Family (6-2)
6. Pagosa Springs (6-1)
7. Manual (8-0)
8. Eaton (4-2)
9. Peak to Peak (8-1)
10. Machebeuf (7-1)

NEW:  Machebeuf

DROPPED OUT:  Mead

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Sheridan (5-2), Pinnacle (4-3), Alamosa (7-3), Platte Valley (4-3), Centauri (8-2)

NOTES:  Since only two teams suffered losses over the past seven days, there’s not much movement in the 3A top ten.  Pagosa Springs lost a late lead at Durango and fell two spots to number six.  The loss to a bigger school did not hurt them that much in the rankings.  Mead also fell from the rankings following an upset loss to Berthoud in their conference opener.  The Mavericks were ranked 10^th last week but have been replaced by Machebeuf who rolled to three wins over Classical Academy, Academy and St Mary’s.  They go to Eaton on Saturday to begin a stretch of three straight games against top ten opponents (Eaton, CS Christian and Manual).  Valley also posted three wins since the last top ten rankings beating Northridge, Clear Creek and Kent Denver.  The Vikings have another difficult week ahead opening league play at home against Platte Valley on Tuesday and then visit Mead on Friday.  Another big matchup this week pits Colorado Springs at Manitou Springs on Tuesday in a battle of unbeatens and for the early lead in the Tri Peaks West.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (7-0)
2. Limon (8-0)
3. Resurrection Christian (7-0)
4. Akron (6-0)
5. Rye (5-2)
6. Peyton (4-2)
7. Sanford (6-10
8. Ignacio (5-3)
9. Meeker (6-1)
10. Crowley County (6-1)

NEW:  Crowley County

DROPPED OUT:  Wiggins

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Byers (5-2), Soroco (4-0), Calhan (5-2), Custer County (4-3), Del Norte (5-2), Evangelical Christian (5-2), Colorado Springs (7-2)

NOTES:  It was a very solid week for teams in the 2A poll as eight of the members in last week’s poll made it through without a loss.  Ignacio suffered two narrow losses to bigger schools at a New Mexico tournament and fell four spots to number eight.  As is our history, out of state losses are not as damaging to a team’s ranking compared to an in-state loss.  Wiggins was the other ranked team to be knocked off but they’re a hard luck case.  They fell at 1A top ranked Caliche (59-56) on the road but it was their second straight loss and it cost them a spot in the poll.  Don’t be surprised if they make a quick return to the rankings especially if they upset Akron on the road this Friday.  Replacing Wiggins in the rankings is Crowley County.  The Chargers have charged out to a 6-1 start and have won four in a row since a hard-fought seven point loss to Peyton.  They have two good home tests this week against Rocky Ford and John Mall as they work through the first half schedule in the Santa Fe.  Denver Christian continues to be very solid atop the rankings.  They won two more games last week including a strong eight point win over 3A Kent Denver.  The Crusaders should have little trouble staying unbeaten and #1 as they face Dayspring Christian and William Smith this week.  Neither opponent should provide much of a test for the top ranked Crusaders.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (6-0)
2. Walsh (7-0)
3. Pawnee (6-0)
4. Springfield (6-1)
5. Shining Mountain (6-2)
6. Simla (7-1)
7. Fleming (5-2)
8. Sierra Grande (8-0)
9. Holly (4-2)
10. Haxtun (4-3)

NEW:  Holly, Haxtun

DROPPED OUT:  Hi Plains, McClave

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Plateau Valley (4-1), Norwood (4-3), Gilpin County (7-2), Prairie (6-1), Cotopaxi (6-1), Elbert (5-2)

NOTES:  The weekend was both good and bad for the top ranked team in Class 1A.  Caliche rallied from 11 points down on Friday night to knock off a very good Wiggins team but then had to attend a funeral for teammate Cole Rhoades the next morning.  Now after such an emotional week, the Buffs try to return to normal this week with games at Prairie (Tuesday) and home against Wray (Fri).  Another great contest occurred on Friday as Pawnee outscored Fleming (69-53) in a key North Central battle.  The win gives the Coyotes the early advantage but the two teams meet again on January 27^th.  Fleming regrouped quickly by beating Sedgwick County the next night but the loss to Pawnee cost them two spots in the rankings.  They can begin the climb back to the top when they host Haxtun on Thursday.  Haxtun is one of two new teams in the rankings.  They replace Hi Plains which was upset by Kit Carson last Tuesday.  Haxtun was blown out by Holyoke in their opener but has won four of six since with the two losses to Caliche and Akron by a total of seven points.  They edged Wray (54-50) in their first game back last Friday.  Holly is the second newcomer as they take the spot previously held by McClave after beating the Cardinals by one point on Friday.  Sierra Grande (8-0) also scored a nice win over Sangre D Cristo (57-50).  It matched their victory over 3A Centauri in December for their most impressive wins of the young season.  Kit Carson’s win over Hi Plains continued their winning streak which has now reached four.  The Wildcats are now 4-4 after an 0-4 start but their four wins are by a total of nine points.  They go to Granada on Friday in search of a fifth straight win.

CLASS 5A

1. Denver East (7-2)
2. Highlands Ranch (9-0)
3. Eaglecrest (6-2)
4. Chaparral (7-2)
5. ThunderRidge (8-2)
6. Ralston Valley (6-2)
7. Grandview (6-3)
8. Arapahoe (7-2)
9. Regis (6-3)
10. Fairview (6-1)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Fossil Ridge (5-1), Fruita Monument (8-2), Mullen (7-2), Columbine (6-2), Aurora Central (6-2)

NOTES:  History is the difference between Denver East and Highlands Ranch for the top spot in the first Colorado Preps poll of the season.  Both teams are unbeaten against in-state teams but Denver East gains first place based on their tradition.  The Angels of course are in the state championship hunt virtually every year.  Highlands Ranch has become a state presence when Bob Caton took over the program recently.  The Falcons finished December strong by winning four games to capture the Cherry Creek tournament.  Denver East has played just two games against Colorado teams but posted solid wins over Eaglecrest (50-46) and Palmer (85-41).  The rest of the rankings are based on head-to-head matchups as many of the teams squared off.  Eaglecrest holds down the third spot because of that great effort against East but they also posted a win over fourth ranked Chaparral.  Their second loss is against Valor Christian (#1 in 4A).  Chaparral beat ThunderRidge to determine the fourth and fifth positions.  Ralston Valley has a win over Grandview and is unbeaten against Colorado opponents.  Grandview and Arapahoe both beat defending champion Regis while Fairview has won six in a row since an opening loss to ThunderRidge.

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CLASS 4A

1. Valor Christian (7-0)
2. Sierra (8-0)
3. Sterling (6-0)
4. Broomfield (6-1)
5. Lewis Palmer (6-1)
6. D’Evelyn (7-1)
7. Cheyenne Mountain (6-2)
8. Windsor (5-3)
9. Pueblo East (8-3)
10. Thomas Jefferson (4-5)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Green Mountain (5-4), Vista Ridge (6-1), Elizabeth (6-1), Montrose (9-2), Evergreen (5-3), Denver South (6-4)

NOTES:  Not much separates the three unbeaten teams atop the rankings but Valor Christian is our number one team based on strength of schedule.  The Eagles have quality wins over Eaglecrest (5A), Denver South, Cheyenne Mountain and Pueblo East.  Sierra’s best win is likely against Mead (3A) while Sterling also has a win over Cheyenne Mountain but the margin of victory was four compared to the nine point win over the Indians by Valor Christian.  Broomfield has the edge on Lewis Palmer since they beat the Rangers in overtime to open the season.  The Rangers have won six in a row since.  D’Evelyn may have moved ahead of both the Eagles and Rangers if not for a loss to 3A power Faith Christian to finish up December.  It was their first loss of the season.  The Jags have two difficult tests this week as they visit Thomas Jefferson on Wednesday and then Elizabeth for their league opener on Friday.   As mentioned, Cheyenne Mountain has narrow losses to Valor Christian and Sterling but they should push Sierra and Lewis Palmer in what should be a great CS Metro race.  Windsor lost to Cheyenne Central WY early as they were still moving over from the football field and then fell to D’Evelyn and Cheyenne Mountain later in the month.  Pueblo East (8-3) has been the busiest team in the state and is favored to land the South Central crown.  Thomas Jefferson is below five hundred but as always, they play a very rugged schedule to get them ready for a post-season push.

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CLASS 3A

1. Faith Christian (6-1)
2. Valley (5-0)
3. Colorado Springs Christian (4-0)
4. Pagosa Springs (5-0)
5. Manitou Springs (7-0)
6. Holy Family (4-2)
7. Manual (7-0)
8. Eaton (4-2)
9. Peak to Peak (6-1)
10. Mead (5-2)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Machebeuf (4-1), Pinnacle (4-2), Sheridan (4-2), Kent Denver (3-2), Jefferson Academy (5-2), Alamosa (4-2), Denver Science (4-1)

NOTES:  Faith Christian has ruled this division of late winning four consecutive titles and right now it appears the Eagles are on their way to a fifth straight state championship.  They’re 4-0 against in-state opponents with quality wins over Mountain View (4A), Fossil Ridge (5A), D’Evelyn (4A) and Eaton (#8).  Their only loss came in the semi-finals of a tournament in Arizona.  Chasing the Eagles are several very good teams including Valley, Colorado Springs Christian, Pagosa Springs and Manitou Springs.  All four made it through December without a loss.  Valley has three games in the first week back including a showdown with Kent Denver on the road Saturday.  Colorado Springs opens January with a home game against a talented Pinnacle squad and then battles Manitou Springs the following week.  Pagosa Springs has been very dominant thus far and is explosive offensively.  They step up a class at home against Durango on Thursday.  Manitou should get to 9-0 before meeting Colorado Springs Christian next week as they have Ellicott and St Mary’s this week.  Despite two losses, Holy Family earned the edge over Manual because of a strong schedule.  The Tigers fell to Manitou Springs (15 points) and Colorado Springs Christian (4) but also have wins over Platte Valley and Eaton.  Manual’s best win came against Pueblo West (70-66) which made the final four in 4A  year ago but is rebuilding a bit this season.  Eaton ended the month with an 18 point loss to Faith Christian but has wins over Peak to Peak, Kent Denver and defending 2A champion Lutheran as they’ve played their normal rugged non-conference schedule.  Peak to Peak has won six in a row since the loss to Eaton and Mead played very well in high quality losses to Peak to Peak (82-76) and Sierra (52-47).  They should be a factor in the Patriot race and open that schedule on Friday against Berthoud.

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CLASS 2A

1. Denver Christian (5-0)
2. Limon (6-0)
3. Resurrection Christian (6-0)
4. Ignacio (4-1)
5. Akron (5-0)
6. Rye (3-2)
7. Peyton (3-2)
8. Sanford (5-1)
9. Wiggins (5-2)
10. Meeker (4-1)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Colorado Springs (7-0), Heritage Christian (4-1), Crowley County (4-1), Soroco (3-0), Yuma (4-2), Kiowa (4-2), Front Range Christian (5-3), Byers (3-2), Evangelical Christian (3-2)

NOTES:  With so many good teams in this division, it was very difficult to lay out the first rankings of the season.  Denver Christian has high level wins against Pinnacle, Lutheran and Sheridan so the Crusaders earned the top spot.  They open January at Kent Denver on Thursday and also have a showdown with third ranked Resurrection Christian on January 21^st.  Limon and Resurrection Christian are a toss-up in the second and third spots and could easily be switched.  Ignacio is getting great play from Shane Richmond.  He’s averaging 27 points a game and has scored at least 32 in three of the Bobcats five games.  They’ve reached the final four the last three years and again appear to be the best 2A team on the Western side of the state.  Akron is the fourth unbeaten team in the rankings but barely stayed that way in a three point win over Haxtun (1A) to close December.  The next five are virtually even and several teams outside the rankings could also be thrown into the mix.  Not much separates Rye, Peyton, Sanford, Wiggins, Meeker and even Colorado Springs, Heritage Christian and Crowley County.  Rye received the highest ranking as they’ve beaten Rye and with both losses coming against unbeaten Manitou Springs (3A).  Peyton also lost to the Mustangs in non-league play and has a win over Crowley County to give them the edge on the Chargers.  Sanford won the La Junta Holiday Classic and was unbeaten until falling to 3A Alamosa in the final week of play before Christmas.  Wiggins would have been ranked higher if not for a home loss to Resurrection Christian in their final game before the break.  Meeker’s lone loss is against Little Snake River which has won two straight titles in Wyoming.  Colorado Springs (7-0) gets tested in the first week back with games against Calhan (Friday) and Peyton (Saturday).  Heritage Christian is a two point loss to Resurrection Christian away from being unbeaten and in the top ten.  Crowley County has won four in a row including a five point win over Calhan.

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CLASS 1A

1. Caliche (5-0)
2. Walsh (6-0)
3. Pawnee (5-0)
4. Springfield (4-1)
5. Fleming (4-1)
6. Shining Mountain (4-2)
7. Simla (5-1)
8. Hi Plains (4-0)
9. Sierra Grande (7-0)
10. McClave (6-1)

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Holly (3-2), Elbert (5-1), Stratton (3-3), Haxtun (3-3), Merino (3-2), Norwood (3-3), Cotopaxi (5-1), Gilpin County (5-2), Deer Trail (4-2)

NOTES:  In our minds, it’s a tossup at this point for the number one spot between Caliche and Walsh.  Tradition is the difference at this point so Caliche gains the nod because they’ve won the last three state titles.  That experience and their style of play has already led the Buffs to narrow wins over Fleming and Haxtun as they enter the second half of the season unbeaten.  Walsh is coming off solid back-to-back wins over Springfield and McClave to capture the title at the Lamar Holiday tournament.  In addition to the Meardon twins, the Eagles will be boosted in the second half by the addition of a seven foot transfer from Swink.  How well he fits into the rotation and into the Eagles up tempo style of play may determine if the Walsh makes a return trip to the state tournament.  Pawnee and Springfield are returning final four teams and they have state championship hopes as well.  The Coyotes return the combination of Brye Brunelle outside and Kevin Shoemaker inside while Springfield has four new starters but played well pushing Walsh in the semi-finals of the Lamar tournament.  The rest of the top ten is filled with familiar names as Fleming, Shining Mountain, Simla, Hi Plains, Sierra Grande and McClave are off to great starts.   Sierra Grande has beaten four 2A schools and also has a win over 3A Centauri.  Simla has won five in a row since an opening loss to 2A Peyton and Shining Mountain will carry a three game winning streak into January.  They’ve lost to 3A Highland and two-time defending Wyoming state champion Little Snake River.   Hi Plains has a busy first week with games against Kit Carson, Woodlin and Lone Star.  They’ll be favored in all three.

The top ten teams again flexed their muscle last week as nine of the teams made it through the week without a loss.  The exception was Montbello.  The Warriors were stunned by Kennedy early in the week and then fell to 3^rd ranked Denver East on Saturday.  Those two losses dropped Montbello from fifth to out of the rankings.  They were replaced by Mountain Vista who’s back in the rankings with a sparkling 18-3 record.  Otherwise, there are not many changes this week.  The top four teams remain in the same order while Boulder, Fossil Ridge, Overland, Palmer and Rangeview each climb one spot because of Montbello’s struggles.  This is the final week for regular season play as the most anticipated matchup is set for Wednesday when Overland goes to Arapahoe.  Those two share the lead in the Centennial so the winner will land the championship.  Overland took the first meeting 60-56.  Top ranked Highlands Ranch has a one game edge on Regis in the Continental but they have some work to do before clinching the title.  They face both Chaparral and Mountain Vista this week and those two teams are battling one another for third place.  It’s also an important week inside the East Metro.  Rangeview has won 10 straight and has used the winning streak to build a one game edge on Gateway and Prairie View.  They face both teams here in the final week and they do so on back-to-back nights.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Chaparral at Highlands Ranch, Lincoln at Montbello

WEDNESDAY: Overland at Arapahoe, Gateway at Rangeview

THURSDAY: Mountain Vista at Highlands Ranch, Rangeview at Prairie View

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CLASS 4A

It’s unusual to have the top three teams in any division lose in the same week but that’s the scenario that played out last week.  Broomfield fell to Longmont, Lewis Palmer suffered their first league loss in overtime to Sierra and Sterling came up short in their road trip to 5A Lincoln.  As a result, we have a new number one team as Pueblo West jumps up three positions to take over the top spot.  The Cyclones beat Pueblo East for a second time this year last week and with it earned the South Central title.  Longmont, because of their win over Broomfield, also moves up three spots to number two.  Then it’s Broomfield, Lewis Palmer and Sterling to finish out the top five.  All three teams lost two positions in the poll.  The rankings are somewhat confusing as we had to throw head-to-head results out the window this week.  West is ranked ahead of Lewis Palmer even though they lost to the Rangers early in the season.  Sterling also stays ahead of Windsor despite losing to the Wizards in league play last month.  Sierra is the hard luck team of the week.  Despite their win over Lewis Palmer, the Stallions were unable to budge from the 10^th spot.  Pueblo East dropped just two positions because two of their losses are against the new number one team.   Looking ahead to this week, the most important game likely takes place quickly on Monday.  That’s when Windsor heads to Sterling to determine the Tri Valley title.  It’s a makeup game from an earlier postponement.  Valor Christian continues play in the Jeffco League tournament which also resumes on Monday.  Longmont faces a nice test against Silver Creek while Sierra hopes to lock down second place in the Colorado Springs Metro but they face a good Palmer Ridge team on the road Friday.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

MONDAY: Windsor at Sterling, Valor Christian vs Alameda (League Tournament)

FRIDAY: Silver Creek at Longmont, Sierra at Palmer Ridge

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CLASS 3A

Two new faces join the rankings this week as Jefferson Academy returns to the poll at number nine while Sheridan makes their first appearance in tenth.  They replace Weld Central and Grand Valley who both suffered difficult losses during the past seven days.  Weld Central was stunned by Lyons as they continue to struggle down the stretch.  It wasn’t that long ago that the Rebels were unbeaten and ranked second in the state but they enter the final week of the regular season outside the rankings.  Grand Valley had a chance to lock up a division crown in the Western Slope but was beaten at Gunnison last Friday.  That made their stay in the top ten only one week long.  Valley was a third ranked team to be upset during the week.  They fell at Brush on Tuesday but when Weld Central lost to Lyons three days, the Vikings still wrapped up the league championship.  Valley goes to Weld Central on Tuesday but it’s the final regular season game for the Vikings and they lead the Rebels and all others by at least two games.  Weld Central also has a big battle with Eaton on Monday.  Faith Christian, Colorado Springs Christian, Kent Denver and Pagosa Springs all maintained their top four positions.  Colorado Springs Christian and Pagosa Springs have clinched league titles but Faith Christian and Kent Denver square off Tuesday night to determine the Metro crown.  It’s the top game of the week.  Dolores Huerta, who outlasted Trinidad in overtime last week to capture the Tri Peaks East title, moves up to fifth and that marks the first appearance in the top five for the Scorpions.  Pinnacle and Machebeuf also swapped spots at seventh and eighth following a loss by Machebeuf to Kent Denver.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

MONDAY: Eaton at Weld Central

TUESDAY: Kent Denver at Faith Christian, Jefferson Academy at Machebeuf, Valley at Weld Central, Platte Valley at Eaton

THURSDAY: Rifle at Aspen

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CLASS 2A

It wouldn’t be a regular week in the division unless at least one ranked school suffered a loss since the previous poll.  This week, three teams in the rankings including two in the top five were beaten so there are some major changes in the lineup.  Limon was ranked third last week but they dropped to fifth following a surprising loss to Burlington on Friday night.  The Badgers did recover by blowing past Peyton the next night.  Wray was missing their top two scorers in a Thursday loss to top ranked Yuma but the road loss still cost the Eagles two spots in the poll.  They’re now 6^th.  Taking advantage of those losses were often overlooked Ignacio and Rye.  Ignacio is third this week.  They’re unbeaten against Colorado opponents.  Rye is unbeaten overall and moves into the fourth spot.  Both teams are up two positions this week.  The third ranked team to suffer a loss was Hayden.  The Tigers snapped a 14-game winning streak with a surprising one point loss at West Grand.  The Tigers dropped three spots to tenth this week but remain in the rankings for a third straight week.  Moving up because of the Hayden loss was Resurrection Christian, Lutheran-Parker and Lutheran.  Many of the conference crowns have already been decided but there’s a great game inside the Mile High conference as Denver Christian goes to Lutheran-Parker on Tuesday.  DC won the first meeting 54-38 so the Lions hope to avenge that loss and create plenty of momentum for what should be a very exciting post-season in this division.  Two other games of great importance take place on Saturday as Evangelical Christian heads to Limon and Sargent visits Custer County.  The winner between ECA-Limon should earn the top district seed while the Sargent-Custer County survivor will land the Southern Peaks league championship.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Denver Christian at Lutheran-Parker, Ignacio at Bayfield, Holy Family at Lutheran

THURSDAY: Wray at Wiggins

FRIDAY: Limon at Byers, Plateau Valley at Paonia

SATURDAY: Evangelical Christian at Limon, Sargent at Custer County

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CLASS 1A

Looking back to the past seven days, it was just another “normal” week in the small school ranks.  A top five team was upset and three other ranked teams suffered a loss.  The highest ranked victim was Community Christian.  After a season long climb to the second spot, the Crusaders were beaten by Shining Mountain to fall back three spots to number five.  Springfield, Hi Plains and South Baca also lost.  Springfield came up short to 7^th ranked Walsh last Friday in the Ark Valley championship game.  Hi Plains lost a seven point third quarter lead at home against Cheyenne Wells in a 48-43 decision and South Baca came up short against Primero.  That win was especially sweet for the Bulldogs.  They were ranked two weeks ago but even though they won all their games during the week, we dropped them from the rankings in favor of South Baca.  We pointed out the weaker schedule by Primero for the reason but the Bulldogs jump all the way to eighth this week because of the quality win over the Patriots.  They’re the only newcomer to the rankings as Springfield (9^th) and Hi Plains (10^th) managed to stay in the rankings because they suffered what we call “quality losses”.  With the loss by Community Christian, Caliche is back up to the second spot and Cheyenne Wells is now third with Stratton fourth.  Caliche has two very important games on tap this weekend.  The Buffs have a rematch with Haxtun in a game that will greatly impact post-season seeding.  Haxtun is the only 1A team to beat the two-time defending state champions this season.  Then on Saturday, Caliche heads to Grover for a much anticipated battle with top ranked Pawnee.  That game could serve as a preview of the district championship game next week.  Another highly attractive matchup on Saturday finds Idalia at home against Stratton.  They’re ranked fourth and sixth respectively this week and the winner will gain plenty of momentum for the district tournament.  Idalia also meets Otis on Monday in a game that will decide second and third behind Hi Plains in the YWKC.  Cheyenne Wells has had a great stretch.  In the past two weeks, the Tigers have beaten Stratton, McClave, Granada and Hi Plains.  Three of the four are ranked in the top ten and the fourth win over Granada gave them the number one seed in districts.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

MONDAY: Idalia at Otis

FRIDAY: Haxtun at Caliche, South Baca at Springfield, Hi Plains at Simla, Ouray at Norwood

SATURDAY: Caliche at Pawnee, Stratton at Idalia

1.       Highlands Ranch (19-1)

2.       Arapahoe (20-1)

3.       Denver East (17-4)

4.       Regis (16-5)

5.       Boulder (19-2)

6.       Fossil Ridge (20-1)

7.       Overland (17-4)

8.       Palmer (15-5)

9.       Rangeview (17-3)

10.   Mountain Vista (18-3)

NEW:  Mountain Vista

DROPPED OUT:  Montbello

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Chaparral (13-8), George Washington (16-6), Arvada West (16-5), Gateway (15-6), Lincoln (14-7), Fountain Fort Carson (13-8), Monarch (12-8), Fruita Monument (14-6), Prairie View (15-5)

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CLASS 4A

1.       Pueblo West (19-2)

2.       Longmont (18-3)

3.       Broomfield (19-2)

4.       Lewis Palmer (18-3)

5.       Sterling (18-2)

6.       Windsor (17-3)

7.       Harrison (17-4)

8.       Pueblo East (16-3)

9.       Valor Christian (17-3)

10.   Sierra (13-7)

NEW:  None

DROPPED OUT:  None

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Falcon (14-7), Glenwood Springs (16-5), Frederick (14-7), D’Evelyn (13-7)

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CLASS 3A

1.       Faith Christian (16-1)

2.       Colorado Springs Christian (17-0)

3.       Kent Denver (16-2)

4.       Pagosa Springs (17-1)

5.       Dolores Huerta (16-2)

6.       Valley (15-3)

7.       Pinnacle (13-4)

8.       Machebeuf (13-4)

9.       Jefferson Academy (13-5)

10.   Sheridan (15-3)

NEW:  Jefferson Academy, Sheridan

DROPPED OUT:  Weld Central, Grand Valley

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Trinidad (14-5), Brush (12-6), University (11-7), Eaton (9-8), Platte Valley (9-8), Aspen (10-7)

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CLASS 2A

1.       Yuma (18-0)

2.       Denver Christian (17-1)

3.       Ignacio (16-2)

4.       Rye (17-0)

5.       Limon (16-1)

6.       Wray (15-3)

7.       Resurrection Christian (15-2)

8.       Lutheran-Parker (14-3)

9.       Lutheran (14-4)

10.   Hayden (15-2)

NEW:  None

DROPPED OUT:  None

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Evangelical Christian (13-4), Custer County (13-2), Sargent (14-3), Burlington (11-7), Paonia (11-6), West Grand (11-6), Meeker (12-5), Swink (12-5), Heritage Christian (12-6), Lyons (8-10), Byers (11-6)

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CLASS 1A

1.       Pawnee (15-0)

2.       Caliche (13-4)

3.       Cheyenne Wells (14-4)

4.       Stratton (14-2)

5.       Community Christian (13-3)

6.       Idalia (12-4)

7.       Walsh (13-4)

8.       Primero (15-1)

9.       Springfield (12-4)

10.   Hi Plains (11-5)

NEW:  Primero

DROPPED OUT:  South Baca

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Plateau Valley (12-4), Ouray (11-5), McClave (13-4), Pikes Peak Christian (13-3), Simla (12-4), Prairie (12-4), Karval (12-5), Shining Mountain (12-4)

It was a very steady week inside the classification as most of the state powers continued to move through opponents.  By far the best game of the regular season to date took place Friday night as Highlands Ranch outlasted Regis in double-overtime and that result could have caused movement in the top five, but in our minds it did not.  Highlands Ranch of course kept their hold on the top spot but Regis also stayed strong at number four.  Despite the loss, we kept them in the same position as a week ago.  Because of that there were no changes among the top eight teams in our Colorado Preps poll this week.  Palmer and Rangeview did move in at numbers nine and ten.  They replace George Washington and Arvada West who both lost during the week.  The Patriots fell to Denver East and likely lost their chance at a City league crown.  A-West was surprised by Dakota Ridge and their lead in the Jeffco was reduced to one game.  Despite four fewer wins and two more losses, Palmer earned the higher ranking ahead of Rangeview because of schedule.  We took so long to put Rangeview in the rankings because they’ve beaten only three teams with winning records all season.  Still 17 wins is enough to get our attention.  Looking ahead to this week, there are several games that will break ties atop conferences.  Fountain Fort Carson and Palmer share the CS Metro lead and they collide on Thursday.  Montbello and Denver East are both unbeaten in the City league but that tie will be broken on Saturday.  Regis also visits Chaparral on Friday with second place in the Continental on the line.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Fountain Fort Carson at Palmer

WEDNESDAY: Cherry Creek at Overland

FRIDAY: Arapahoe at Cherry Creek, Regis at Chaparral, Overland at Eaglecrest

SATURDAY: Montbello at Denver East

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CLASS 4A

Consistent is the word to describe the rankings this week.  Cheyenne Mountain’s 22 point loss to Sierra was the only surprising result from the past week involving a top ten team.  With that loss, the Indians fell out of the rankings (8^th last week) and were replaced by the team that beat them.  Sierra is 10^th this week and in the poll for the first time all season.  They’re battling Harrison and Palmer Ridge for third place in the rugged CS Metro.  Cheyenne Mountain may have been caught looking ahead to Tuesday’s showdown with 2^nd ranked Lewis Palmer.  Had they beaten Sierra last Friday, the Indians could have earned a share of the conference lead by beating the Rangers.  Now the best they can do is trim the lead in half.  Lewis Palmer survived a scare with Coronado on Saturday and now owns a two game edge on all other conference opponents.  There are no changes in the top seven this week.  Because of the Cheyenne Mountain loss, both Harrison and Valor Christian move up one position.  Several great games fill the schedule this week.  It begins on Tuesday as Longmont visits Broomfield to determine the Northern title and continues through Friday when Pueblo East tries to avenge an earlier loss to Pueblo West.  In between are a couple of big games inside the Jeffco.  If Green Mountain beats Golden on Wednesday, the Rams clinch the league title.  If they fall to the Demons, then Valor Christian earns the championship with a win at D’Evelyn.  The Jags can win the title by upsetting Valor if Green Mountain comes up short vs Golden.  Sterling also goes to Roosevelt on Friday and must avoid looking ahead to a big showdown with Windsor the following Monday.  That game was slated for last Tuesday but pushed back to the 14^th because of cold temperatures.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Longmont at Broomfield, Lewis Palmer at Cheyenne Mountain, Sierra at Palmer Ridge,

WEDNESDAY: Valor Christian at D’Evelyn, Green Mountain at Golden, Silver Creek at Greeley Central

THURSDAY: Thomas Jefferson at Montbello

FRIDAY: Sterling at Roosevelt, Pueblo East at Pueblo West, Sierra at Lewis Palmer

SATURDAY: Montrose at Grand Junction

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CLASS 3A

While the top five remained in the same order as a week ago, there were several changes in the second five.  Weld Central was stunned by Platte Valley last Friday and that cost the Rebels three more spots in the rankings.  Just two weeks ago, Weld Central was unbeaten and ranked second in the state but two losses in two weeks have dropped them to ninth this time around.  Jefferson Academy also suffered a key loss to Kent Denver on Friday.  That game was to decide second place in the Metro behind Faith Christian and the Jags came up short.  They’ve lost three of their four games but there is a case to keep them in the rankings.  Those losses are against Faith Christian, Colorado Springs Christian and Kent Denver and those teams are ranked 1-2-3 again this week.  Despite those quality opponents, we did drop the Jags from the rankings.  They were ninth a week ago.  Replacing them is Grand Valley.  In a wild and inconsistent year in the Western Slope, the Cardinals seem to be the best club.  They’re 13-3 overall and make their first appearance in the rankings.  They edged out Sheridan and Trinidad for the final berth in the poll.  Sheridan, as we’ve mentioned in the past, is hurt by their schedule.  Trinidad played well but lost in overtime to Dolores Huerta Prep and is now two games back of the Scorpions in the Tri Peaks East.  Dolores Huerta took advantage of the Weld Central loss to jump one spot to sixth.  It’s their highest ever ranking in our Colorado Preps poll.  Machebeuf and Pinnacle also moved up to seventh and eighth.  The top five contains four conference leaders.  Faith Christian (1^st) leads Kent Denver (3^rd) by one game in the Metro.  They meet a week from Tuesday (Feb 15^th).  Colorado Springs Christian (2^nd) has virtually wrapped up the Tri Peaks West and Pagosa Springs (4^th) has clinched the Intermountain crown.  Valley (5^th) now has a comfortable two game advantage in the Patriot.  The Vikings do finish with Weld Central next Tuesday but that game will mean nothing if the Vikings can beat both Brush and Berthoud this week.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Valley at Brush, Clear Creek at Pinnacle

WEDNESDAY: Colorado Springs Christian at Manitou Springs, Kent Denver at Machebeuf

THURSDAY: Brush at University

FRIDAY: Grand Valley at Gunnison

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CLASS 2A

Resurrection Christian’s win over Lutheran-Parker last Friday caused the most disruption in the poll this week.  Because of that win, the Cougars return to the rankings at number eight this week.  They replace Evangelical Christian who was ninth last week but unranked this week because of three point losses to both Peyton and Lutheran-Parker.  Despite the bounce back win over Evangelical Christian, Lutheran-Parker fell six spots to number nine.  That’s quite a few spots from a nine point loss to a very good Resurrection Christian but injuries also factored into the Lions place this week.  Since losing their second leading scorer to injury, they’ve lost two of four and this absence could affect the team during the post-season push.  If he returns and the Lions again start to string wins together, they’ll climb back up the rankings.  Resurrection Christian edged the likes of Sargent and Custer County for the open spot in the rankings.  It came down to losses to ECA by Sargent and Custer County.  If the Eagles are not in the top ten this week, two teams they beat probably shouldn’t be there either.  That’s why we went with Resurrection Christian.  They’ve lost to Denver Christian and Heritage Christian.  They also own a win over Heritage Christian so that loss is somewhat cancelled out.  With the six position drop by Lutheran-Parker, several teams continue to move up.  That list includes Limon who picked up a solid two point overtime win at Stratton Friday night.  Yuma, Wray and Hayden all had fantastic weeks with three wins apiece.  Yuma and Wray may play the most anticipated game of the week as they collide on Thursday in Yuma to determine the Lower Platte league championship.  Lutheran (10^th) was able to stay in the rankings despite a recent cold stretch where they’ve lost three of four.  All three losses are against 3A Metro league opponents including Faith Christian.  The Lights played very well Friday night but eventually lost to the three-time defending state champions by just eight points.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Denver Christian at Heritage Christian

THURSDAY: Wray at Yuma

FRIDAY: Burlington at Limon, Custer County at Crested Butte

SATURDAY: Peyton at Limon, Swink at Rye, Sargent at Crested Butte

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CLASS 1A

I’m not even sure where to begin in the recap from the past week.  Our rankings were blown out of the water as Stratton, McClave and Plateau Valley all lost twice during the week while Idalia and Walsh were two other teams that suffered losses.   As a result, the past seven days were probably the craziest we’ve seen in a couple of years on the 1A level.  And that’s saying something because the small school ranks are filled with circular situations this year.  What we mean is that Team A will beat Team B, then Team B will beat Team C and then Team C turns around and knocks off Team A.  Another one of those situations popped up again this week.  Earlier this year, Walsh beat South Baca but this past week, South Baca beat Rolla KS but Rolla also beat Walsh.  With all this in mind, there are major changes in the rankings and it’s basically from starting over.  Pawnee is the new number one.  As the lone unbeaten in the division, they’ve earned the top billing.  Community Christian is now ranked second.  We have mixed feelings on the Crusaders.  Their completion level is always suspect, but we also have coaches telling us they’re a very good ballclub plus they have a quality win over 2A Evangelical Christian.  Caliche has great tradition and with all the losses by other ranked opponents, the Buffs are back in the third spot.  Cheyenne Wells vaults back into the rankings at number four.  No team had a better week.  The Tigers downed Stratton and McClave over the weekend and those teams were ranked first and fourth a week ago.  Stratton, which also lost to Limon in overtime on Friday, drops four spots to number five.  Long-term, the losses may actually help the Eagles.  We always prefer going into the post-season with at least one loss to take the pressure off from a possible unbeaten season.  Idalia, which lost to Hi Plains in a game that likely cost the Wolves the YWKC league title, falls three spots to sixth.  It was their first loss to a 1A opponent all season.  Hi Plains used that win to get into the rankings for the first time this year.  They’re ranked 9^th but we didn’t move them ahead of Idalia since they’ve split two games with the Wolves this year and Idalia has the bigger margin of victory.  Walsh dropped just two spots because their loss came against an out-of-state opponent and as always, those losses don’t hurt a team as much as an in-state setback.  Springfield did not play this past week but actually moved up two spots with all the craziness.  South Baca also returns to the poll this week.  We had McClave staying in the poll at number ten despite the two losses but since they loss to South Baca, we moved the Patriots in ahead of the Cardinals.  The hard luck team of the week is Primero.  They drilled Centennial 80-28 in their only game of the week and they have just one loss all season but their schedule again cannot stack up against other teams in the division.  And since Cheyenne Wells and Hi Plains had great weeks, we had to find room for both and Primero was the victim of that search.  Plateau Valley is another hard luck team.  They lost twice during the past week but both were against 2A opponents.  The Cowboys are also unbeaten against 1A teams this year but they fell into the same category with Primero.  In normal weeks, they may have stayed in the rankings but the past seven days were far from normal.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Shining Mountain at Community Christian, Hi Plains at Burlington

FRIDAY: Flagler at Stratton, McClave at Granada

SATURDAY: Walsh at Springfield, Cheyenne Wells at Hi Plains

1.       Highlands Ranch (17-1)

2.       Arapahoe (17-1)

3.       Denver East (14-4)

4.       Regis (13-5)

5.       Montbello (14-4)

6.       Boulder (17-2)

7.       Fossil Ridge (17-1)

8.       Overland (14-4)

9.       Palmer (13-5)

10.   Rangeview (17-3)

NEW: Palmer, Rangeview

DROPPED OUT:  George Washington, Arvada West

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Ralston Valley (16-2), Lincoln (13-6), Fountain Fort Carson (12-7), Pine Creek (12-7), Chaparral (12-7), Mountain Vista (16-3), Mountain Range (13-5)

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CLASS 4A BOYS

1.       Broomfield (17-1)

2.       Lewis Palmer (17-2)

3.       Sterling (16-1)

4.       Pueblo West (17-2)

5.       Longmont (15-3)

6.       Pueblo East (14-2)

7.       Windsor (15-3)

8.       Harrison (15-4)

9.       Valor Christian (15-3)

10.   Sierra (12-7)

NEW:  Sierra

DROPPED OUT:  Cheyenne Mountain

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Glenwood Springs (15-5), Montrose (14-5), Silver Creek (11-6), Greeley Central (11-7), Thomas Jefferson (11-8), D’Evelyn (11-6), Green Mountain (11-7)

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CLASS 3A BOYS

1.       Faith Christian (14-1)

2.       Colorado Springs Christian (15-0)

3.       Kent Denver (13-2)

4.       Pagosa Springs (16-1)

5.       Valley (14-2)

6.       Dolores Huerta Prep (15-2)

7.       Machebeuf (12-3)

8.       Pinnacle (11-4)

9.       Weld Central (12-2)

10.   Grand Valley (13-3)

NEW:  Grand Valley

DROPPED OUT:  Jefferson Academy

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Sheridan (11-3), Trinidad (13-4)

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CLASS 2A BOYS

1.       Yuma (17-0)

2.       Denver Christian (15-1)

3.       Limon (15-0)

4.       Wray (15-2)

5.       Ignacio (14-2)

6.       Rye (15-0)

7.       Hayden (13-1)

8.       Resurrection Christian (13-2)

9.       Lutheran-Parker (12-3)

10.   Lutheran (12-4)

NEW:  Resurrection Christian

DROPPED OUT:  Evangelical Christian

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Sargent (12-3), Byers (10-5), Peyton (12-3), Meeker (11-4), Custer County (12-2), Crested Butte (12-3), Swink (11-4), Wiggins (9-7)

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CLASS 1A BOYS

1.       Pawnee (14-0)

2.       Community Christian (12-2)

3.       Caliche (11-4)

4.       Cheyenne Wells (12-4)

5.       Stratton (13-2)

6.       Idalia (11-4)

7.       Walsh (11-4)

8.       Springfield (11-3)

9.       Hi Plains (11-4)

10.   South Baca (12-4)

NEW:  Cheyenne Wells, Hi Plains, South Baca

DROPPED OUT:  McClave, Plateau Valley, Primero

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Ouray (10-5), Sierra Grande (10-5), Flagler (10-5), Simla (10-5), Pikes Peak Christian (11-3), Shining Mountain (9-4)

About the only major change in the big school ranks this week involves Fossil Ridge.  Entering the week, the Sabercats were the only unbeaten team left in the division but that changed with a loss to Boulder.  The decision cost Fossil Ridge a share of first place in the Front Range conference and also dropped them four spots to number seven in this week’s poll.  Their loss also allowed Denver East, Regis, Montbello and Boulder to all move up one spot.  George Washington fell three spots following a tough two point loss to Montbello.  The Warriors hit a last second jumper to win a crucial game inside the City League.  Highlands Ranch and Arapahoe went a combined 4-0 last week so they stayed put in top two positions.  The Falcons have a huge test with Regis on Friday.  Those two are tied with Chaparral for the Continental lead.  Arvada West is the lone newcomer.  They have a nice two game cushion in the Jeffco and have won 10 straight games.  They edged Rangeview (16-3) and Palmer (11-5) for the final spot in the rankings.   Palmer’s record cannot matchup with A-West and Rangeview but they have played a tremendous schedule but A-West’s recent stretch of wins gave them the slight edge.  Rangeview has a big game with Gateway on Tuesday with the winner likely winning the East Metro title.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Lincoln at Denver East

FRIDAY: Regis at Highlands Ranch, Fort Collins at Fossil Ridge, Pine Creek at Fountain Fort Carson

SATURDAY: George Washington at Denver East

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CLASS 4A

For maybe the first time all season, this division seems to have settled in a bit.  The top eight teams all worked through the week without a loss so they remain in the same order as a week ago.  Lewis Palmer scored a pair of important wins as they downed both Falcon and Palmer Ridge.  Those decisions stretched the Rangers’ winning streak to 14 and kept them alone in first inside the Colorado Springs Metro.  They have a huge date with Cheyenne Mountain on February 8^th.  Cheyenne Mountain trails the Rangers by one game in the league standings and the Indians may be the only regular season challenge left for the 2^nd ranked team in 4A.  Sterling has won eight and remains solid in third.  They host Windsor in a huge game Tuesday night (weather permitting).  Those two are tied for the conference lead but the Wizards have the advantage based on a 57-56 win earlier this season.  Windsor also has a rematch with Roosevelt on Friday.  They lost to the Riders earlier this season.  If Windsor wins both games, they’re in complete control of the Tri Valley championship chase.  Newcomers this week are Harrison (13-4) and Valor Christian (14-3).  Both teams have spent time in the rankings during the season and are back in after ending tough stretches with impressive wins last week.  Valor Christian picked up a solid win over Golden (ranked 9^th last week) and that result created a four way tie for the Jeffco lead.  Harrison had lost 3 straight including losses to Lewis Palmer and Cheyenne Mountain but responded with three wins last week so they’re back in.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Windsor at Sterling, Thomas Jefferson at Montbello, Silver Creek at Greeley Central

THURSDAY: Pueblo West at Pueblo Central, Golden at D’Evelyn, Harrison at Falcon

FRIDAY: Roosevelt at Windsor

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CLASS 3A

As the only unbeaten team left in the division, Colorado Springs Christian continues to inch their way closer to the top spot.  The Lions are up to second this week, bumping up one more spot thanks to a loss by Weld Central.  The Rebels were also unbeaten before falling in overtime to Highland (49-46) last Tuesday.    Colorado Springs Christian picked up a nice win over Jefferson Academy and then began the second run-through in the Tri Peaks West with a couple of tight wins.  Weld Central’s loss cost the Rebels four spots to number six.  Normally a three point overtime loss won’t cause a team to fall that far, but we moved Weld Central behind Valley in the poll since they trail the Vikings in the Patriot league chase.  Weld Central responded nicely from their first loss by beating University.  That game allowed the Rebels to move into sole possession of second place.  Kent Denver, Pagosa Springs and Valley also improved by one position this week as all three moved ahead of Weld Central.  Kent won two games inside the Metro, Pagosa Springs collected three wins including a likely league title clinching 14 point decision over Bayfield last Saturday.  Valley scored a win over University and followed by blasting Strasburg to take over the Patriot league lead.  They began the week tied with Weld Central and University but now stand alone in first.  Machebeuf and Jefferson Academy remain eighth and ninth this week despite losses over the past seven days.  Machebeuf lost to top ranked Faith Christian by just eight points and Jefferson Academy lost a difficult test on the road to Colorado Springs Christian.  Those are both quality losses and did not hurt the Buffs or Jags in the new rankings.  Dolores Huerta  has won eight straight and kept sole possession of first in the Tri Peaks East by beating La Junta and St Mary’s.  They host Trinidad on Tuesday in a game that should decide the division winner.  Dolores Huerta easily won the first go-round with the second place Miners.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY: Eaton at Weld Central

FRIDAY: Faith Christian at Lutheran, Buena Vista at Colorado Springs Christian, Jefferson Academy at Kent Denver, Alamosa at Pagosa Springs, Dolores Huerta at Trinidad, Sheridan at Clear Creek, Eaton at Brush, Coal Ridge at Grand Valley

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CLASS 2A

Here is where we find our only new number one team in any division.  Yuma has replaced Lutheran-Parker in the top spot this week.  The Lions lost to Denver Christian while Yuma picked up a pair of quality wins over Wiggins and Caliche.  The Indians are one of two unbeaten teams left in Class 2A (Limon).  They have a tough week in store with three games in as many days but they’ll be favored in all three.  Lutheran-Parker dropped only two spots to number three.  They were missing a key player in the Denver Christian loss.  Following Yuma up the poll is Denver Christian.  They’re up two spots to number two this week.  The Crusaders not only picked up the win over Lutheran-Parker, but they also downed Middle Park for a 10^th straight win.  Lutheran took the most difficult tumble.  They were beaten twice last week and dropped five spots to number eight.  They lost to Jefferson Academy (43-42) and Machebeuf (67-64) but since both were narrow losses and came against ranked 3A opponents, the Lights were able to stay in the top ten.  With the struggles by Lutheran, room closer to the top was created for Limon, Wray, Ignacio and Rye.  They’re ranked fourth through seventh this week.  Limon faces a great test at Stratton on Friday in a game that should decide the Union Pacific champion.  Wray is on the court three times this week and will try to keep winning until their rematch with Yuma later this month.  Ignacio should not be tested until a regular season closing non-conference date with Bayfield.  Rye continues to have a one game lead on Swink in the Santa Fe chase.  They survived a tight test with Hoehne (64-60) last Friday.   Resurrection Christian and Peyton were ranked 9^th and 10^th last week but both lost so they’re no longer in the rankings.  Replacing them are Evangelical Christian and Hayden.  They won a battle over the likes of Custer County and Sargent for the final two spots.  Evangelical Christian beat Custer County by 15 points in December so that gave them an edge on the Bobcats.  Staying the rankings may be difficult as the Eagles face both Peyton and Lutheran-Parker this weekend.  Hayden is 10-1 and has won nine straight.  They’re also unbeaten against 2A teams this year.  The Tigers face a difficult road trip to Plateau Valley on Friday.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

THURSDAY: Hi Plains at Yuma

FRIDAY: Resurrection Christian at Lutheran-Parker, Faith Christian at Lutheran, Limon at Stratton, Evangelical Christian at Peyton, Swink at Hoehne

SATURDAY: Lutheran-Parker at Evangelical Christian, Limon at Calhan, Plateau Valley at Meeker, La Veta at Crested Butte

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CLASS 1A

The top three spots and the final two positions in the rankings are the same as last week but in-between teams are in different places than a week ago.  Stratton, Pawnee and Idalia remain one-two-three after going through the week without a loss.  None of three was challenged as they won every game by at least 14 points.  Primero (9^th) and Springfield (10^th) also rolled through the week untested and stayed solid in their positions.  Walsh, Caliche and Plateau Valley all lost last week.  Walsh was upset by Granada in overtime, Caliche fell at 2A #1 Yuma and Plateau Valley was surprised by West Grand.  All three lost two spots in the rankings and they’re now ranked sixth through eighth.  Moving up were McClave and Community Christian.  The Cardinals blasted Karval 54-37 and are now ranked fourth while Community Christian scored an important win over Denver Jewish Day.  They’re now in the fifth position, their highest ever ranking by Colorado Preps.  No new teams entered the poll this week but several teams are pushing for berths and those challengers have a chance to make some noise this week if they can get by difficult opponents.  Cheyenne Wells (10-4) has won four in a row and will visit McClave in a key game this Friday.  Granada (9-4) has the win over Walsh and has won three in a row.  South Baca has won two straight since a five point loss to Walsh.  Prairie (10-3) is at Pawnee on Friday so they can gain some consideration by handing the Coyotes their first loss.  Hi Plains (10-3) has won five in a row and face both Yuma and Idalia this weekend.  Pikes Peak Christian (10-3) also picked up a nice win to Deer Trail.  They have just one loss against a 1A opponent.

KEY GAMES THIS WEEK

THURSDAY: Hi Plains at Yuma

FRIDAY: Limon at Stratton, Prairie at Pawnee, Hi Plains at Idalia, Hayden at Plateau Valley, Cheyenne Wells at McClave, Flagler at Deer Trail

SATURDAY:  Stratton at Cheyenne Wells, McClave at Walsh, Plateau Valley at Meeker

1.       Highlands Ranch (16-1)

2.       Arapahoe (16-1)

3.       Denver East (12-4)

4.       Regis (13-4)

5.       Montbello (13-4)

6.       Boulder (15-2)

7.       Fossil Ridge (16-1)

8.       Overland (13-4)

9.       George Washington (12-5)

10.   Arvada West (14-3)

NEW: Arvada West

DROPPED OUT: Mountain Vista

TEAMS TO WATCH:  Rangeview (16-3), Palmer (11-5), Fort Collins (13-4), Mountain Range (12-5), Ralston Valley (15-2), Gateway (13-5), Lincoln (12-5), Chaparral (11-6), Pine Creek (12-6), Fountain Fort Carson (10-7)

CLASS 4A

1.       Broomfield (16-1)

2.       Lewis Palmer (15-2)

3.       Sterling (15-1)

4.       Pueblo West (16-2)

5.       Longmont (13-3)

6.       Pueblo East (13-2)

7.       Windsor (14-3)

8.       Cheyenne Mountain (13-4)

9.       Harrison (13-4)

10.   Valor Christian (14-3)

NEW: Harrison, Valor Christian

DROPPED OUT: Golden, Falcon

TEAMS TO WATCH: Thomas Jefferson (10-8), Silver Creek (10-6), Wasson (12-5), Montrose (12-4), Glenwood Springs (13-5), Roosevelt (11-6)

CLASS 3A

1.       Faith Christian (13-1)

2.       Colorado Springs Christian (14-0)

3.       Kent Denver (11-2)

4.       Pagosa Springs (14-1)

5.       Valley (12-2)

6.       Weld Central (12-1)

7.       Dolores Huerta Prep (13-2)

8.       Machebeuf (11-3)

9.       Jefferson Academy (10-4)

10.   Pinnacle (10-4)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: Trinidad (12-3), Brush (9-4), University (9-5), Bayfield (10-4), Sheridan (12-3), Buena Vista (8-6), Clear Creek (9-5), Eaton (7-7)

CLASS 2A

1.       Yuma (14-0)

2.       Denver Christian (13-1)

3.       Lutheran-Parker (11-2)

4.       Limon (13-0)

5.       Wray (12-2)

6.       Ignacio (13-2)

7.       Rye (13-0)

8.       Lutheran (11-3)

9.       Evangelical Christian (11-2)

10.   Hayden (10-1)

NEW: Evangelical Christian, Hayden

DROPPED OUT: Resurrection Christian, Peyton

TEAMS TO WATCH: Custer County (11-2), Sargent (10-3), Meeker (9-4), West Grand (8-5), La Veta (10-4), Crested Butte (11-3), Wiggins (7-7), Swink (9-4), Byers (9-5), Heritage Christian (10-4)

CLASS 1A

1.       Stratton (13-0)

2.       Pawnee (12-0)

3.       Idalia (11-3)

4.       McClave (11-2)

5.       Community Christian (10-2)

6.       Walsh (10-3)

7.       Caliche (9-4)

8.       Plateau Valley (10-2)

9.       Primero (12-1)

10.   Springfield (11-3)

NEW: None

DROPPED OUT: None

TEAMS TO WATCH: Cheyenne Wells (10-4), Granada (9-4), South Baca (10-4), Prairie (10-3), Hi Plains (10-3), Sierra Grande (9-5), Pikes Peak Christian (10-3), Flagler (9-5), Simla (8-5), Deer Trail (8-4), Shining Mountain (9-4), Ouray (8-5)