Questions abound as practice begins

http://www.mcall.com/sports/varsity/mc-high-school-football-preseason-questions-0812-20120813,0,1576994.story FROM THE MORNING CALL There are teams who have changed coaches, leagues and players. That much we know. So, what else will change in area high school football in 2012? Easton, Central Catholic, Pen Argyl and Pius X brought home 2011 District 11 gold, but what lies ahead for those teams? Here is a look at three questions facing each of the three area conferences at the start of practice for the 2012 season. LEHIGH VALLEY CONFERENCE 1. How will the new schedule affect teams?: With Allen and Dieruff leaving the LVC, the league's 10 remaining teams will all play one another during the regular season for the first time. That will lead to an unquestioned league champion. Allen and Dieruff's departure also means teams won't have soft spots on the schedule to rest banged-up players. Surviving the regular season will be tougher than ever. 2. Will defenses rise up?: Offense ruled the LVC in 2011, with the league's top seven teams all averaging at least 28.5 points per game. Most of the skill players who helped produce those numbers have graduated, so scoring could come down this season. 3. Which first-year coach will have the most success?: John Cupples takes on a rebuilding project at Central Catholic after the Vikings' three-year run of excellence with Brendan Nosovitch at quarterback. Jeff Brosky has replaced Bob Steckel at Northampton, while Brian Gilbert is the head man at Whitehall after two years as an assistant. Gilbert has the most returning talent, led by quarterback and Lehigh recruit Nick Shafnisky.