Region D is down overall this season in my estimation. Hopefully the top teams will continue to develop and improve the rest of the way, so they can compete come playoff time.
I'm not sure what to make of it. Richlands O is much better, but D and line play is not as good as last year.
Graham has the athletes and playmakers, but needs line work.
Union has a strong running game and at least the threat of a pass this year, but D is not as strong and secondary is weak.
Ridgeview is a complete unknown to me. Best team they've faced in a game or scrimmage is 1A Chilhowie and all reports indicate that was a stalemate.
Like you said, hopefully someone will get things together and emerge as a title contender by the semifinals.