The Preseason MileSplit50 Top 25 Boys Team Rankings

No. 1: American Fork (UT)

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Analysis: Six returners are back from a team that finished fifth at nationals, first at the NXR Southwest region and first at the Utah State Championship. The Caveman also have the No. 1 runner in the country, Daniel Simmons. 

It's hard to argue with American Fork being No. 1 in the preseason -- even when you consider Herriman edged the Cavemen most recently at the Timpanogos Invitational by the sixth-runner. 

This Utah team has depth, star power and experience. All three variables will play crucial roles across the 2023 season. That experience? It will also include five seniors back in the lineup. The team's returning average, 15:31.62, is No. 2 in the nation and the Cavemen own the top returning speed rating average of 182.6.

Biggest Question: Can they handle the pressure? 

Perhaps this is the easy question. Can American Fork handle all that assumed expectation?

There is no easy answer, at least no black and white. Some days that may be true, other days no. But if American Fork reaches the final race of the season, the NXN final in Portland, will this team win?

That's the true question this Utah team will have to answer by the end of the season.