Meghan Ford, Jamestown (ND)
2018 has been Meghan Ford's incredible breakout year. Two weeks ago, Ford captured her first North Dakota State XC title, in a race that she won by over 30 seconds. That result was not too shocking, given she threw down a 17:20 at Salmi/Sahli way back in September. That time is the fourth fastest season best in the field, and the top time by a non-Minnesotan. Ford crossed the line roughly two minutes in front of any other competitor in the race, setting her new PR by over a minute. Ford's domination is nothing new, as besides her state meet, no runner has even come within a minute of the Jamestown star. She's only really faced competition from the Dakotas, and thus has flown under the radar of many. NXR will be her first race this season with anyone remotely near her, so it will be intriguing how she approaches the competition. But don't discount on Ford, who could be a sleeper pick for a top three finish.