More than ever, taking stock of the impending NCAA Division III men’s lacrosse season is a challenging exercise.

We’re referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, of course, which has slapped a giant question mark over what awaits this February and March. There’s a tangible level of uncertainty from college coaches themselves, too, as they look around their respective conferences. Fifth-years returning, going nearly a year without games and travel protocols only muddy the waters.

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Mac Bredahl is the US Lacrosse Magazine D-III Men’s Preseason Player of the Year

Yet a framework emerged as we compiled our Nike/US Lacrosse Division III Men’s Preseason Top 20, with familiar faces carrying the national pecking order. We’ll soon find out what competition truly awaits, but here’s an overview of how the landscape is shaping up.

Continue below to see the rest of the top 20. Rankings are compiled by US Lacrosse Magazine staff and contributors in consultation with college coaches.