In 1 generation, it’s become a whole new game

In the lifetimes of this year’s seniors, high school football in Snohomish County has undergone several changes — some big, some small.

To get a better understanding of those changes, The Herald spoke with a sampling of coaches and school administrators who either played or coached high school football in 1997 — the year most the members of the current senior class were born.

Among the differences they noted, artificial turf has replaced grass, the spread offense has become more popular than the wing-T, and social media has made an impact on everything from trash talking to recruiting.

One thing remains the same, however: Everyone’s goal is still to win.

With the 2014 season opening Friday, The Herald today kicks off four days of high school football previews, beginning with a look at how the game has changed in the lifetimes of the members of the Class of 2015:

In the coming days, watch for stories, schedules and predictions for the Wesco 4A, Wesco 3A North and South, and the Cascade Conference.

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