It's the return of Aaron's High 5! We had some fun with this last year, and with the ability to leave comments this year, I think it should be even better! So each week, I'll break down the unofficial 'power rankings' of the MIAA. Now remember, these are based solely on this year's performance, not expectations, what happened last year or anything else.

So let's get it started

1. Northwest Missouri - Seems like the Bearcats are on top of this list pretty often, and deservedly so. Northwest made quick work of any people (including myself) who thought there MIGHT be a chance of a first-game stutter as the team comes off its wild offseason. 525 yards of offense, including a 6:50 explosion of six touchdowns has this team on top of the conference early on and looking to extend their conference record 47 game MIAA win streak.

2. Washburn - I wanted to go with Pitt State here, but I have to stick with another team who was facing some doubts heading into the first week. The 'Bods were another team who used a quick start to jump out on their opponent, and even though they kind of cruised their way to a victory over one of D2's newest members, Dane Simoneau's 452 passing yards have me believing this team can compete for a title in this conference.

3. Pitt State - Welcome back to the big time Pittsburg fans. Now, how long will it last? It's entirely possible you'll stick around for a few weeks, as the schedule gods have paved the way for what could be a 4-0 record heading into Fall Classic X at Arrowhead on Oct. 1.

4. Central Missouri - Whoa! Six touchdowns!? Tommy Corwin got off to a good start as a starting quarterback against the league's best defense from a year ago, but now UCM heads to St. Joe to face a Missouri Western team desperate to prove their worth in the league.

5. Fort Hays State - Don't reserve a spot for me on their bandwagon just yet, but an opening week win over what was supposed to be an improved Emporia State team lets the Tigers sneak into the tail end of the High 5. Just like Pitt, the schedule continues to be friendly for Hays, until a matchup with Northwest Missouri in a few weeks.

Agree with me? Disagree? Good, now tell me why. Leave a comment below, e-mail me at [email protected], @ me on twitter @miAARONd2 or message me at Facebook.com/apheintz.