The District 10-3A Division II championship could very well be on the line in the league opener when Crockett visits Newton on Oct. 7.

It checks in at No. 24 on ETSN.fm's list of the top 25 games of 2016.

These two regional powers finished district in the top two a season ago, and each traveled at least three rounds deep in the 2015 playoffs. And both Crockett and Newton return a wealth of experience this fall.

Crockett graduated 3,000-yard passer Case Robinson (Lamar) and standout receiver A.J. Phillips, but the Bulldogs have a ton of size back on its offensive line in addition to a 1,300-yard receiver in Lucky Daniels.

The defensive side of the ball is expected to be Crockett's supreme strength. Ten of 11 starting defenders return, led by defensive tackle Tim Riley.

Newton brings back 16 starters from last season's regional semifinalist squad, including QB Brock Barbay, RB Broderick Spikes, and WR/DB Kirkland Foster.

Last season's matchup was decided by three points -- 38-35 in Newton's favor. With each team bringing back a considerable amount of firepower, expect this year's installment to be every bit as competitive.

ETSN.fm's Top 25 Games of 2016

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