My honest predictions based off what I have seen with my own two eyes and from what I've heard from people without being biased is:
1. North Mesquite
2. Highland park
3. Poteet
4. Lakeview Centennial
5. West mesquite
Now I have seen all of these bands show up to date and North Mesquite seems to be on top of their game this year. They made their first ever appearance at State last year and got 2nd in Area C for 5A. Their show is really entertaining and they have definitely upped their game since last season and they seem to just be getting better and better. I have high hopes for North Mesquite and it would really be cool to see them win Area Champs. Highland Park is also a super strong competitor this season since they are back in 5A but after seeing both of North Mesquite's show and Highland Park's show, North just looks so much cleaner in their marching and balance in sound. With that said I still think that 1st place could fall between North and Highland. I was honestly surprised when I saw Poteet this year because they aren't doing as good as they usually do. Their show theme IMO doesn't correlate to the music selection and they just seem very sloppy this year. I do hope to see Poteet up there and hope they clean up before Area. Seeing how Lakeview Centennial placed 10th at Don Hanna and North Place 4th I don't have high hopes for LC unfortunately. West Mesquite has been doing amazing this season and I honestly see them making at least top 5 at Area, it would be super cool to see all the MISD 5A bands go to state. As for any other bands in this Area I have no opinion as I have not seen their show but these are my solid predictions for Area. Feel free to comment on this or give fee back on what you all think!