Before the CIF Southern Section Cross Country Championships take place this weekend, it's only proper to consider what might happen in California's strongest section.
The must-watch storylines of the weekend feature teams and individuals whose seasons won't just end in California but will extend to the national stage. The CIF-SS Championships are a brief three- to four-week window for these exceptional athletes aiming to qualify for the CIF State XC Championships next week.
Then some will go on to race at Nike Cross Nationals the following week or the Brooks XC Championships West. It all concludes for the top individuals in the country at the Brooks XC Championships Presented by Fleet Feet on December 13th.
Below, explore the five biggest storylines shaping Saturday's action - and our quick predictions for each division.
STORYLINES || QUICK-TAKE PREDICTIONS