Of the St. Louis American
Paul Anderson (Alton): Versatile speedster who had 846 total yards and 12 touchdowns in leading the Redbirds to a playoff berth in 2004.
Duane Bennett (O’Fallon): Speedy tailback who rushed for 1,065 yards and nine touchdowns for 11-1 Panthers.
Dale Fink (Althoff): Talented quarterback who threw for 2,730 yards and 32 touchdowns for powerful Crusaders’ offense.
Jason Ford (Althoff): Rushed for more than 1,700 yards and 16 touchdowns in a spectacular freshman season.
Martavis Hines (Cahokia): Senior tailback who returns for loaded young Comaches team that won South Seven title.
Edward Jackson (Cahokia): Senior defensive end returns as one of the top players for the South Seven champions.
Derrick Johnson (East St. Louis): Passed for 1,381 yards and nine touchdowns after entering starting lineup as a sophomore.
E.J. Jones (Edwardsville): Talented transfer from Ohio who will infuse some firepower at the skilled positions for the Tigers.
Jaious Singleton (East St. Louis): Senior running back returns as one of the best in the state. Scored 18 touchdowns in 2004.
John Steen (Alton): Physical defensive lineman who returns to anchor Redbirds’ defense. Had six sacks as a senior.
Justin Stewart (O’Fallon): Two-way standout who returns to lead Panthers after an 11-1 season in 2004. Will be moved to quarterback for his senior year.