The signs are there.

This could be a big year for Levelland.

Returning 14 starters and being the largest school in all of Region I-4A Division II should have some perks.

“We’re returning eight starters on defense and a lot of good young kids we’re excited about,” Lobos coach Curtis Lowery said. “There should be good competition, and that goes for the offense as well. We’re replacing three offensive linemen and three receivers, but we’ve got a lot of young kids ready to compete. Competition is what should make us better.”

Among the returners is senior quarterback Chris Gerber. He almost broke 4,000 total yards with 38 total touchdowns in 12 games played while running back Tristan Van Zandt ran for just a tad under 1,000 yards as the second-leading rusher.

But, like Lowery said, defense should be the absolute strength with experience at eight different spots. The unit held opponents to 32 points per game last year.

Odds are high the Lobos will make the playoffs in spite of their strengths. They’re part of a five-team district co-headlined by Estacado.

The Matadors cost Levelland a district title last season.

Lowery and his crew might have the toughest non-district schedule of all area teams.

All five competitors — Plainview, Shallowater, Andrews, Pampa, Bushland and Seminole — made the playoffs ranging from the Class 5A Division II level to Class 3A Division I.

“Those games are important to us to win,” Lowery said. “They’re also important for us so we can be ready for district play and for the playoffs.”