The Wisconsin Department of High School Athletics has released its preseason rankings for Division 4, setting the stage for a competitive season across the state. The list, compiled from performance data and expert analysis, highlights the top fifteen teams and offers a glimpse into the storylines that will shape the upcoming campaign.
While the rankings span multiple conferences, the depth of talent is especially evident in the North Eastern, Badger‑Small, Capitol, Metro Classic, Middle Border, Rock Valley, CWC‑Large, and Great Northern leagues, each of which boasts several playoff‑ready squads.
Key Returners and Standout Players
Little Chute stands out as the only team that reached the semifinals a year ago and returns to the fold, anchored by senior running back Reece Joten, a 1,700‑yard rusher and All‑State linebacker who will be a focal point for the team.
Lake Mills brings quarterback Tyler Wollin into the conversation, a player who threw for 2,625 yards and 38 touchdowns last season, giving the team a potent aerial threat.
Edgewood’s Ben Morey led the team with 41 receptions for 876 yards and 12 touchdowns, positioning him as a primary target in the passing game.
Aquinas boasts defensive back Brady Lee, an All‑State caliber player who has committed to North Dakota State, adding a high‑level defensive presence.
Freedom’s junior quarterback Owen Henkel, who surpassed 2,000 yards of passing as a sophomore, is expected to continue his rapid development.
West Salem’s dual‑threat quarterback Drew McConkey returns with experience, promising a dynamic offensive scheme.
Lodi’s head coach Kyle Mack noted that injuries last season opened opportunities for younger players, a factor that could reshape the team’s dynamics.
Racine St. Catherine’s will be without dynamic D1 player Lamont Hamilton and multi‑year starting quarterback Eddie Vinson, a loss that could affect their offensive balance.
Northwestern’s Tysen Teal rushed for over 1,800 yards and 32 touchdowns last year, making him one of the most prolific running backs in the division.
Delavan‑Darien’s Quintin Arizola threw for 3,223 yards and 33 touchdowns last season, highlighting his ability to lead a high‑powered passing attack.
Stratford’s Tyler Budtke earned the league’s Defensive Lineman of the Year award and returns to anchor the defensive line.
Mosinee’s Treve Stoffel combined nearly 2,000 passing yards with more than 1,000 rushing yards, showcasing a rare dual‑threat skill set.
Wrightstown’s coach Steve Klister pointed out the team’s lack of experience at quarterback and along the line, a challenge that will test their depth.
Evansville’s Harker Larsen is regarded as one of the league’s premier talents and a top collegiate prospect, adding excitement to the season.
Conference Outlook
The competitive balance across the conferences suggests that playoff spots will be fiercely contested, with each league contributing multiple teams to the postseason picture.
Coaches and analysts alike predict that the blend of seasoned veterans and emerging underclassmen will produce a season full of unexpected breakthroughs and hard‑fought battles.