2025 Class 2A Football Preview
The 2025 Iowa Class 2A football season arrives with a buzz of anticipation, as eight districts prepare for battles that could reshape the playoff picture. The narrative centers on an undefeated champion, a handful of favored programs, and a slate of dark‑horse squads that could upset the established order.
Hull Western Christian enters the conversation as a favorite, buoyed by the return of key contributors Jesse Heyen, Ryer Roetman and Tayden Moret. Central Lyon‑George‑Little Rock hopes to rebound from recent setbacks, leaning on the talents of Jayden Dalle and Michelet Sedam. Meanwhile, Waukon garners attention for its strong quarterback play and dominant rushing attack.
Carroll Kuemper Catholic, the only unbeaten team in the classification, will look to build on a championship run that featured standout performances from Jarin Hoffman, who returned after a season of 1,671 yards and 23 touchdowns. Southeast Valley also emerges as a dark horse, anchored by senior quarterbacks Mason Bahr and Casey Hanson, while Crestwood’s Alex Loden promises a dual‑threat presence with 907 passing yards and 730 rushing yards.
Other notable names include Roland‑Story’s Colin Willis, who topped the list with over 2,200 yards and 25 touchdowns, and West Branch’s Keaton Gates, who amassed 1,289 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Centerville’s Mack Murdock stands out as a star quarterback with 2,250 yards and 27 touchdowns, and South Tama County’s Eric Medina adds a dynamic dual‑threat dimension with 1,145 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Van Meter’s Christian Williams, a returning running back, contributed 1,054 yards and 16 touchdowns, while Clarinda’s Cooper Baumgart offers a reliable passing option with more than 500 yards and seven scores.
Predictions point to a deep playoff field that includes Boyden‑Hull/Rock Valley, Unity Christian, OABCIG, Okoboji, North Fayette Valley, Osage, Denver, Dike‑New Hartford, Hampton‑Dumont/CAL, Alburnett, Anamosa, Bellevue, Mid‑Prairie, West Burlington/Notre Dame, Wilton, Monroe‑PCM, Pella Christian, Chariton and several of the teams already mentioned. The convergence of experienced returnees, emerging stars and competitive districts sets the stage for a season that could deliver memorable matchups and unexpected breakthroughs.