The Rankings Landscape
The Wisconsin high school football preseason rankings have been released, and the early buzz centers on Darlington’s rapid ascent from Division 6 champions to contenders in Division 5. Head coach Travis Winkers emphasizes the team’s experience and depth, noting that the roster blends seasoned seniors with promising underclassmen.
Among the standout returning players for Darlington is Zeke Zuberbuhler, an Honorable Mention All‑State pick who has committed to Air Force, as well as Dante Glendenning, who rushed for 977 yards last season, and Calum Crist, a defensive standout who earned All‑State honors.
Columbus enters the conversation after capturing the Capitol Conference title last year and dropping back into Division 5. The team’s leading rusher, Bobby Tracy, amassed 1,189 yards and 21 touchdowns in the previous campaign, giving the team a potent ground attack.
Mayville, the defending Division 5 state champions, return key contributors such as Joe Promersberger and Tanner Schneider, both of whom helped the team secure the title last fall.
Lake Country Lutheran finished second in the Metro Classic Conference and brings back 32 letterwinners, positioning them as a strong mid‑tier contender.
Racine Lutheran boasts nine returning offensive starters and eight on defense, anchored by Cohen Kraus, the program’s all‑time leading passer.
Grantsburg’s Daxter Schultz powered the offense with 1,284 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns last season, making him one of the most watched backs in the state.
Amherst finished second in the CWC‑Large last year and returns 1,800‑yard rusher Ayden Nerdahl, who is expected to be a focal point of the team’s attack.
Saint Croix Falls brings back quarterback Brett Sladky, who threw for 1,922 yards last season, giving the team a solid passing foundation.
Tomahawk shares the Great Northern Conference title and returns six starters on both sides of the ball, aiming to build on that balance.
Spencer/Columbus Catholic features Jack Hoepper, who carried the ball 254 times for 1,729 yards and 23 touchdowns, highlighting his role as a workhorse back.
Watertown Luther Prep returns seven starters on each side of the ball, including three‑year starting quarterback Levi Nottling, who provides continuity at the helm.
New Holstein’s Connor Schaefer broke the 1,200‑yard rushing mark last year, establishing himself as a key offensive weapon.
Amery brings senior Keaton Wollan into the fold, a standout tackler who ranks among the state’s leaders in that category.
Elk Mound fields 19 returning starters and is targeting a postseason return, underscoring the program’s depth.
New Glarus opened the season with six straight wins and finished 8‑1 in the regular season, setting a high bar for the upcoming schedule.