Sometimes we get so involved in the day-to-day sports results, we don't pay attention to the trends that are taking place.
So let's do that today. Here are some teams of local and/or statewide interest that merit mention.
Cleveland Browns: New owner Jimmy Haslem may have been just what the doctor ordered to break this franchise from the doldrums.
Haslem, an avowed fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, has breathed some fresh air into this team.
He's been spotted standing out in front of the stadium thanking fans for their support.
He's changed the attitude in Cleveland.
The Browns have won their last three games. While that isn't necessarily a cause for celebration, it certainly is an encouraging sign.
There's no reason Cleveland can't be competitive. Given the Browns performance in recent years, competitive would be a welcome change.
PHS wrestling: While it has been four-time defending state champion Parkersburg South that has dominated the local mat scene and the headlines during its historic streak, it's time to keep an eye on what is taking place at Parkersburg High School.
Coach Chris Way's fourth Big Reds squad is without question his best. Over the weekend, the Big Reds participated at the Claysburg (Pa.) Duals and dominated the competition.
Parkersburg's lineup is impressive.
The Big Reds return defending state champion Jared Haught and runnerup Trapper Hays. Plus, Adam Lindamood, who was injured last season is back. Parkersburg has a lineup that is strong from top to bottom.
It will make the dual meet with South quite interesting.
Perhaps we will soon return to the days when the two Parkersburg schools battle it out in Huntington for the state title.
South, PHS boys basketball: If season openers set the tone -and they often do - then good things are going to happen for the boys basketball programs at Parkersburg South and Parkersburg High.
The Patriots, a senior dominated team that expects to be good, didn't disappoint in beating Linsly in their debut.
South's roster is impressive. The Patriots are deep and talented.
Parkersburg High, meanwhile, lost virtually all its experience from a year ago. But the Big Reds traveled to Wheeling and socked it to Wheeling Park.
The Patriots and Big Reds will meet each other for the first time on Dec. 22 at Memorial Fieldhouse. Like the dual wrestling match, it should be interesting.
Border teams: All of the participants in West Virginia's Super Six State Football Championships hailed from counties that border another state.
I'm not sure what that means, but I find it interesting.
Guess that also means there is hope for Wood County schools to return to Wheeling in the near future.
