The Preseason MileSplit50 Top 25 Boys Team Rankings

No. 14: Niwot (CO)

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Analysis: While last year saw Niwot drop in placement at the state and national level due to the remarkable rise of Cheyenne Mountain, this fall should see a considerable return to form for the Boulder-based power. Four returners are back from last year's eighth-place finish at the national championships, including senior Carlos Kipkorir Cheruiyot, who was eighth at the state championships. 

Every single returner in the top five from last year -- including the fifth-runner coming up from outside varsity -- is under 16 minutes for 5K, giving Niwot an incoming average of 15:37.91 and an approximate spread of 43 seconds. Depth should be the team's strength this fall: Niwot's first four projected runners are all seniors. 

Biggest Question: Can Niwot challenge for a national title? 

With depth comes expectations. A team like Niwot is no stranger to success at the state level. But what can Kelly Christensen's squad do outside the spotlight of Colorado? 

MileSplit50 Boys Team National Rankings Countdown