Opening Week Preview
The first weekend of the season will see Iowa City High open against Iowa City West on August 28, a rematch of last year’s 2‑7 campaign that ended in a loss for the Little Hawks. Both programs are using the early games to test new schemes and evaluate talent as they chase early momentum.
At Iowa City High, the spotlight falls on Savion Miller, a transfer who left Regina Catholic in search of more opportunities at the 5A level. Miller arrives with a proven track record of 1,068 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, adding a dynamic element to the offense.
The quarterback battle at Iowa City High features Jackson Grabinski, who transferred from DePaul College Prep and previously threw for nearly 1,800 yards with 18 touchdowns, alongside returning sophomore Chris Kabaiza. The competition is expected to shape the team's offensive identity early in the season.
Iowa City Liberty enters the year with a fresh start at quarterback, welcoming Emerson Berner to replace Reece Rettig, who departed with 3,373 passing yards. The new starter will be supported by a defense anchored by Eric Strunk and Alex Strunk, both of whom contributed heavily on that side of the ball last season.
Solon’s offense will be led by quarterback Maddox Kelley, who steps into the role after Eli Kampman’s departure. Kelley will benefit from a strong receiving corps, including Kaden Hoeper, who amassed 691 yards, and Cody Milliman, who added 516 yards.
Regina Catholic sees Tate Wallace, a University of Minnesota commit, returning as a dual‑threat tight end and linebacker. Wallace’s presence helps the offense retain four of five starters on the line, providing stability for the 2026 season.
Iowa City West’s quarterback Reece Wheeler returns with the aim of guiding the team to a state title game. The squad features a young offensive line that includes University of Iowa commit James Barnett at center, adding both experience and future potential.
Clear Creek Amana is ushering in a new quarterback era, with a junior taking over after a successful sophomore campaign. The junior will be flanked by versatile playmakers such as Tay Seals, while the defense boasts standouts like Tucker Stockman, Nolan Doa and Ian Kelley, complemented by contributors Teagan Heisdorffer and Joe Vaske.
Defensive units across the region are shaping up to be among the most competitive in 5A. Iowa City Liberty’s front seven, led by Eric and Alex Strunk, Adrian Clerry, Cash Hennings, Cooper Lester and Hank Thompson, is expected to rank near the top, while Clear Creek Amana’s defensive line features Tucker Stockman, Nolan Doa and Ian Kelley as key anchors.
The early weeks will test each team’s adjustments, from Iowa City High’s 2‑7 record to the fresh optimism at Liberty and Solon. With key transfers, emerging quarterbacks and fortified defenses, the upcoming season promises intense competition and strategic innovation across the Iowa City area.