Outlook

Ravens veteran offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie was convinced he had assumed permanent residence inside coach John Harbaugh's doghouse. Between frequently facing concerns about his weight and conditioning, reporting late for training camp after saying he hurt his lower back in a fall at his South Florida home, grading out poorly as a run blocker and facing multiple lawsuits from creditors, McKinnie experienced a year filled with nightmares....

Usually by early December, investment professionals have mapped out their outlook for the next year. But such forecasting has been made difficult by the "fiscal cliff" — the confluence of spending cuts and higher taxes that kick in automatically next year if politicians in Washington can't reach a deal. Some experts are waiting for the dust to settle on a compromise before outlining a 2013 investment strategy. But others say if it isn't the fiscal cliff, it would be the debt ceiling or some other Washington-manufactured crisis to worry investors.

With the possible exception of Mayan calendar followers and all others who expect the world to end in a matter of hours, is there a gloomier bunch around metropolitan Baltimore than Ravens fans? Rarely in the history of professional sports have people with so little to grouse about made themselves so miserable. It can't be a Baltimore thing. Just three months ago, this city was thrilled over the unexpected good fortune of a hometown team that hoped to - in the final days of its season - capture a playoff spot.

1. Aberdeen Coach: Amber Milnes Last season: 26-1, ranked No. 1 Postseason: Class 3A state champion Outlook: The Eagles graduated eight players, have a new coach and face a tougher schedule, but they shouldn't lose much ground with last season's All-Metro Player of the Year -- 6-foot-3 senior center Bri Jones -- returning, along with defensive gem Jimmia McCluskey and point guard Kierra Palmer. 2. McDonogh Coach: Brad Rees Last season: 28-2, No. 2 Postseason: IAAM A Conference champion Outlook: After winning their first title in 13 years, the Eagles may be even better than last season.

1. Gilman Last season: No. 1 Postseason: MIAA champion Outlook: The Greyhounds lost some key performers from last year's squad that won the MIAA championship in February, but once again this is a team with a lot of depth. They can score in every area, which should make them hard to beat again this winter. 2. Mount St. Joseph Last season: No. 2 Postseason: MIAA runner-up Outlook: The Gaels raced to a 59-point lead over Gilman early in the MIAA title meet at the Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex, but they couldn't hold it. Led by junior Landrie Hatcher and others, Mount St. Joseph is on a mission for the championship this season.

Regional championships Sherwood (9-2) at No. 4 Westminster (11-0) When: Friday, 7 p.m. Region: 4A North Coaches: Mike Bonavia, Sherwood; Brad Wilson, Westminster Last meeting: First meeting Outlook: The Owls, who are looking for their first state title, meet a Sherwood team that won the last of its three titles in 2008. In last week's semifinal, the Warriors used a strong running game and big plays to get past Catonsville, 26-7, in a game that was 13-7 with eight minutes left.

Friday: vs. Chicago Soul Saturday: vs. Syracuse Silver Knights Site: 1st Mariner Arena Times: 7:35 p.m. Video: mislnation.com Outlook: The Blast looks to build on last Saturday's 23-13 season-opening win over the Chicago Soul with back-to-back games this weekend. First up is a second straight visit from the Soul, which the Blast dominated in the second half. The Blast used a balanced attack in the opener, led by newcomer Tony Donatelli's three goals and a good first game for rookie goalkeeper Troy Hernandez (nine saves)

Division II Team: Bowie State Coach: Darrell Brooks (fourth season, 61-22) Last year's record: 22-6 overall, 12-4 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Outlook: The Bulldogs were picked by league coaches to win the CIAA Northern Division. Senior guard and Mervo grad Byron Westmorland (14.6 points per game) and senior forward Dameatric Scott (6.6 ppg) were named to the preseason All-Conference team. Division III Team: Frostburg Coach: Webb Hatch (14th season, 170-175)