Week 1 football preview: Prairie vs. Lakewood

When, where: 6 p.m. Friday at District Stadium, Battle Ground

Last meeting: Lakewood won 47-34 at Lakewood in Week 1 of 2010.

Prairie: Prairie has not had a winning season since 1997. But last season’s 4-5 campaign gives the Falcons hope. … This is the year Prairie hopes its experience pays off. QB Collin Seitz and WRs Jesse Zalk, Tyler Vea and Ansel Cecil are all seniors and loaded with game experience and impressive stats. … Now, the Falcons need to develop some standouts on defense.

Lakewood: The Cougars went 7-3 last season before having their season end in the 2A district playoffs with a loss to Burlington-Edison. … It was the first time Lakewood has hosted a 2A playoff game. … The Cougars lost QB Justin Lane, who accepted a scholarship to Illinois State. Juniors Justin Peterson and Kolby Schueller will split time at QB. … Lakewood still has TE Dustin Stanton, who is 6-6, 220 pounds. He’s verbally committed to Oregon State. … Lakewood returns nine starters on both sides of the ball.

Columbian’s pick: Prairie.

Fans’ pick: Lakewood.

To vote on winners of each week’s games, go to The Columbian prep sports Facebook page at www.facebook.com/360preps.