A new leader takes over in the SEMO MVP race (plus a new incentive)

For the third time, there's a new No. 1 in the chase for Southeast Missouri's football MVP title.

And, for the first time, there's even more incentive for the person who wins (besides just a title).

Michael Greminger of Valle picked up steam this week with an avalanche of votes over the past three days and slid past former poll leader Brandon Bourbon of Potosi for the lead. More than 800 votes have come in (which are all one-time voters, since the poll doesn't allow visitors to the site to vote twice). Kory Faulkner of Ste. Genevieve has gained ground and is third.

And, starting today, there's a new reward for Southeast Missouri's football MVP. Actually, there are three rewards.

First, the winner of the poll will receive a free professionally built Web site with a customized address, complete profile information, photos, statistics and more, all of it designed to appeal to college recruiters and fans. The site will be updated regularly throughout his high school and college career.

Second, the winner will receive a custom plaque engraved with his name and school, along with the title of 2008 Southeast Missouri Football MVP.

And third, the winner will receive a $100 gift card to Sports Authority (or SportsAuthority.com), which has store locations throughout St. Louis and Memphis.

Getting the most votes in a poll is one feat, but winning a free Web site, a plaque and cash isn't so bad, either.

We'll keep the poll open until every team in Southeast Missouri has completed its season. That means that if you haven't voted, there's time.