Preseason Power Rankings
The Wisconsin high school football preseason rankings have been released, and Division 3 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive brackets in the state. Catholic Memorial, the perennial powerhouse, sits at the top of the list, riding the momentum of a senior‑laden squad that has dominated the division for years.
What makes the Crusaders stand out is not just their winning pedigree but the presence of Wisconsin commit Dustin Roach, a dynamic senior who anchors both the offense and defense. His commitment to the University of Wisconsin has added extra buzz to the team’s already high expectations.
Close behind, Whitefish Bay is generating plenty of chatter after a roller‑coaster season that ended with a trip to the state semifinals. The team returns five starters on each side of the ball, giving them a solid foundation as they look to improve on last year’s run.
Top Contenders
Pewaukee is another program that expects to be among the elite. With a strong offensive and defensive line and seven starters returning on each side, the Pirates are poised to challenge the traditional contenders.
Waterford’s Wolverines bring a promising junior class into their senior campaign, highlighted by four of five linemen who are set to return. Their growth could make them a dark horse in the race for the title.
Mount Horeb/Barneveld’s Vikings boast six returning offensive starters and five on defense, featuring a powerful offensive line that could open up the field for their playmakers. Plymouth, meanwhile, rolled through the regular season undefeated last year, capturing the East Central Conference title and entering the new season with high confidence.
Port Washington continues its recent surge, marking a fifth straight playoff appearance and a fifth consecutive postseason victory. New Berlin West, after winning seven of eight games before a surprising playoff upset, will look to regroup, while teams like Winneconne, Fox Valley Lutheran and La Crosse Logan each bring a mix of experience and youthful talent.
Players to Watch
Among the individual storylines, Dustin Roach’s senior year is being watched closely by recruiters and fans alike. Other notable names include La Crosse Logan’s junior quarterback Thomas Check, Luxemburg‑Casco’s quarterback Eli Derenne, and Onalaska’s long‑standing coach Tom Yashinsky, who continues to guide a young but talented squad.
The depth of talent across the division means that the upcoming schedule will be a true test of consistency. With traditional powers like Catholic Memorial and Baldwin‑Woodville, who have reached the state semifinals for three straight years, and emerging threats such as Luxemburg‑Casco and Onalaska, the season promises plenty of twists and turns.
As the first games approach, coaches and players are focused on fine‑tuning their schemes and building chemistry. The preseason rankings provide a snapshot, but the real story will unfold on the field, where every snap could reshape the outlook for these teams.