Prep football: Class 3A, District 3 predictions

Another fine season for Cedar Rapids Xavier was cut short last year; Decorah upset the Saints in the second round of the playoffs. Now, those two teams are in the same district, and figure to be the top contenders for the crown.

Xavier has a super run-pass duo in Maliki Wilson (1,273 rushing yards, 12 TDs) and Bryce Schulte (1,516 passing yards, 20 TDs), and you know the Saints will be tough defensively.

The Saints have a challenging non-district schedule, opening with Iowa City Regina and Linn-Mar.

The showdown with Decorah is on the road Sept. 23.

Team Previews

• Last year's early exit drives Cedar Rapids Xavier

How They'll Finish

1. Cedar Rapids Xavier*

2. Decorah*

3. Charles City

4. Vinton-Shellsburg

5. South Tama

6. Independence

7. Benton Community

8. Waverly-Shell Rock

*Playoff qualifier

Who will win Class 3A District 3?