I think Richmond will be big factor next year. Returning 8 starters both sides of the ball, plus their best OLineman back (broke his femur week 1).. So really, 9 starters back on both sides.
That said, I think Richmond is much better than their record shows. Lost to O'Hara week 1 20-14, beat a decent Lawson week 2, lost to Excelsior Springs badly (head scratcher), lost to Harrisonville 40-12? But we're leading most of the first half and were down 21-12 at the half. Harrisonville just wore them down in the second (benefits of playing 1 side of the ball early), then lost to a very good Higginsville team but had 5 starters out..
I don't think Maryville is as good as they have been, but they are obviously still pretty darn good.
I think I agree, could be closer than most expect.