Pollsters are taking a cautiously optimistic approach to Sherburne-Earlville's budding 2013 season. The unbeaten Marauders entered the rankings three weeks ago at the 19 spot, and after wins the last two weeks, have moved up four spots to the 15 spot among New York Class C schools.

"I understand (the hesitancy) to move us up in the rankings because we don't have that proven track record," said Marauders fourth-year head coach Mike Jasper. "We're a newcomer to this level, so hopefully we can make a dent by beating a good private school."

S-E (5-0) entertains Utica Notre Dame (3-2) tonight at 7 p.m., and a lot rides on the outcome. With a victory, the Marauders would clinch a tie for the Class C East division title, and most likely sew up a Section III home playoff game. The Jugglers, though, are no patsy, and beat Sherburne-Earlville in the last year's season finale, 56-29.

The primary architect of that thrashing was UND's veteran quarterback, Kevin Warmack. Warmack threw for five scores and ran for two more in last season’s blowout, and is continuing to put up big offensive numbers this year, Jasper said. Warmack leads a potent UND offense that has the ability to light up the scoreboard.

"They have some really talented kids over there with a nice blend of speed and athleticism," Jasper said. "Defensively, we have our work cut out for us."