Once again, Thomas Jefferson and Belle Vernon will be battling for the top spot in the Big Eight Conference. Thomas Jefferson has been the more successful team in the playoffs, reaching Heinz Field in four straight seasons and winning three consecutive titles. Belle Vernon is one of just two WPIAL teams to defeat Thomas Jefferson during the six-classification era. In 2017 the Leopards claimed the conference crown by beating TJ during the regular season. The Jaguars got revenge in the playoffs that year and went on to win the WPIAL crown. This year, Thomas Jefferson and Belle Vernon (along with perennial contenders South Fayette) figure to once again be the top three teams in 4A.