Throughout the course of the 2016 season I attend games each and every week and had the pleasure of seeing and experiencing great Iowa High School Football at the 4A Level as a spectator without bias. The following lists represent players that have made an impression on me, in most cases I watched them play live, some multiple times. In addition to live viewing I used “ word of mouth” from other fans, coach's and players, in addition I utilized Quik Stats and Hudl. Players names, graduation year and stats came directly from Quik Stats, I apologize in advance for any inaccurate information, I tried my best. Also remember this is all in fun and not intended to slight anyone or any team, this really became more difficult than I ever expected, there are so many good players to pick from I almost deleted the list in fear of leaving great players off.
I will close by saying some Really Good Teams are not heavily represented even though those teams could win the State Championship! A handful of teams I seem really balanced with very good players ( a coach’s dream) but may not have the standout performer and/or the players played half the snaps due to lopsided scores which made it hard to evaluate.
With that said here is my List;
4A Football Central & NW “ Season’s Top Performers”
OFFENSE
What a group of talented weapons, needless to say this group can make a coach the happiest man alive or keep him awake at night if you have to defend against them.
Quarterbacks;
Hawkins (SR. Ankeny) What a great season leading his team into the playoffs and winning the District. Ended the season throwing for 1745 yards and 21 TD, combine that with an overall QB Rating of 184 there is no doubt Hawkins in one of the top QB’s in Iowa 4A. Like many of the Top Performers he can hurt you with both his feet and legs as Urbandale found out in their final game.
Lombardi ( SR Valley) The guy flat out wins and has over his entire career. Has a high completion percentage 61% and seldom makes bad throwing decisions ( only 2 picks in 134 attempts) . Lombardi is also blessed with a great QB’s body, has the height and strength to stand in the pocket and deliver the throw. Will be greatly missed at Valley by both fans and coaches. Great Career!
Duggan ( Soph CBLC) I got to see this young talent twice this season, left Urbandale game thinking WOW he’s got 2 more years! Accurate passer 180 QB Rating with a lot of zip on the ball, dangerous with his feet as his arm. This young QB throws the deep ball with pinpoint accuracy. When looking at his stats I learned CBLC only played 8 games due to a cancellation ( when comparing stats to others)
Backs;
Baker ( Soph CBTJ) Size, Speed & Strength is how one coach described this talented running back. Ends the regular season in 3rd place in rushing 1255 with over 9 yards per touch. Unfortunately I never got the opportunity to see Baker play this year but look forward to seeing him next year. Like Duggan another player we get to enjoy for 2 more years.
Zachary ( SR Dowling) over 900 rushing yards with 9 yards a touch. People may say he has the best line in HS to run behind, I say “SO WHAT” you try and stop him! He’s a headache waiting to happen at 6-1 225 and when teamed up with the next guy on the list they form one of the best 1-2 punches in the state.
Deskin (SR Dowling) I will catch hell for having 2 Dowling players on the list, but it’s my list. Power and Speed is how I describe Deskin. Over 9 yards a carry and 910 rushing yards with a long of 80 yards. Easy to see why Dowling is still the team to beat.
Mason ( Jr Valley) Ok my plan was only 3 backs but how the hell do I leave Mason off this list! Mason is a dual threat back that racked up close to 800 yards on the ground and another 300 receiving while finding the end-zone 19 times. With that said screw it, I’m having 4 backs on my list.
Receivers:
Mosley (Jr Fort Dodge) One of the top receivers in the State, has the speed to get to the end-zone ( 7 times with a long of 78 yards) . Top tier receiver in both catches 1st in 4A and total yards 4th in 4A while averaging 11.7 yards a reception He’s a young man I didn’t get to see however his stats are very impressive and had to be on this list.
Flemister ( SR. SC East) Did someone say SPEED! This kid has jets and can torch you running the ball or catching it as a receiver, if he gets a step he’s gone you won’t catch him. Has 1269 yds between running back and receiver ranking him 6th in total offense. Like Hill ( Ankeny) a dual threat player.
Jefferson ( Jr. DSM Hoover) Nice open field speed, good route runner. 6th in the state in receiving yards (689) with a staggering 18+ yards per catch. Another performer that can take it to the house with every touch.
Linemen: Sorry you all look good to me and it’s hard to see from the stands what’s happening in the trenches. It would be a dis-service to even try and pick the best of the best. I can tell you you’re critical to your teams success and you hardly ever get any love, doesn’t seem fair! Remember at the end of the day “the girls love the linemen and that’s really all the matters”. Each player on this list should thank you for helping them make the list.
Defense
My selections include a host of Juniors which include the “Top Tackler” in 4A Football, & the “Leading Sacker” in 4A Football along with a player attracting D-1 attention. Beyond those feats throw in a group of players that are blessed with Power & Speed and high football IQ … With all that you get my “Top Performers Defense"
Morrison ( Jr. Waukee 6-3 195 DE) Good pass rusher despite being on the lighter side, finds a way to get to the QB with 6.5 sacks on the year and 11.5 Tackles for Loss. Can also catch the ball on the offensive side when needed. Expect big things from him next year as he puts on more size.
Wiggins ( Sr. Waukee 6-3 240 DT ) Dowling had 2 players make the Offensive Backfield I guess Waukee can have two on the D-Line. Team Leading tackler on a Quality Defense, has a great frame for a HS Tackle. Excellent at penetrating the backfield, top 10 statewide in Tackles for Loss and throw in 5 QB sacks. Easy to see how Wiggins made the list.
Theobald ( Jr. CBLC 6-2 230 DE) 4A’s State Leader in QB Sacker (11.5) and 3rd in Tackles for Loss ( 21.5) Like Duggan these stats are in 8 games SC EAST shows cancelled. Watched CBLC play 2 games ( Ankeny & Urbandale) Theobald had 9 Tackles for loss & 6 Sacks in just those games along, that a season for most! Combines Speed/Strength/Size with a high motor.
Waggoner (Jr. Dowling 6-5 225 DE) Long arms, speed to the edge and great leverage. Does an excellent job of staying home and letting the play come to him then makes the tackle. Will continue to get better as his body fills out and he gets stronger. Like the others on the list Waggoner found a way to get to the QB with 6 sacks and 10.5 Tackles for Loss. Yet another Junior I get to watch again next year. From what I understand has attracted D-1 attention and rightfully so.
Baugher ( Jr. Ankeny 5-11 190 OLB) 4A’s Sate Leader in Tackles (101) Yes folks another Jr. and this one wakes up wanting to tackle! I had an opportunity to see Baugher play on two separate occasions, not sure he missed a single tackle either night BTW he also gets into the backfield recording 10 TOL and throw in 2 sacks as well.
Coleman ( Sr. Ames 6-0 190 OLB) One of the state leaders ( 5th) in overall tackles (85), not afraid to come up and fill the hole ( 5.5 TFL and 4.5 sacks)) , has the speed and size to stop ball carries from getting the extra yards. Also a good cover guy recording 2 picks on the season. Very athletic. Was also used on specials Kick-Return.
Naba ( Sr. Valley 6-0 255 DT) Naba is all about power, penetrates the backfield recorded 18 tackles for loss and Bull Rushes you on the pass 4.5 sacks. Team leader with 30+ tackles, if you want to be competitive with Valley it starts by controlling Naba
O’Hara ( Sr. Dowling 6-1 225 MLB) Tough Willie is the kind of guy you want playing the inside on your team. Great flow to the ball, his size and speed separates Willie from others I watched play this year. He’s one of those guys that gets off the bus and you just know he’s the real deal. Over 50 tackles on the year with 8.5 happening in the backfield then throw in 3sacks and you have one heck of a good D-Player.
Jackson (Jr. DSM Roosevelt 6-0 200 OLB) Anyone that records 85 tackles with 9 for loss and 5 QB sacks deserves a place on my list! Oh btw he also recorded 2 picks. One of 4A’s top tacklers Jackson a Junior has another year to display his talents
SPECIALS
Specials/Offense/Defense ( All around ATH can play either side effectively, these guys are a coach’s dream)
Hill (Jr Ankeny) This kid is electrifying and like Walling ( DSM East) you get out of your seat when he touches the ball. Tied for the State Lead in TD’s (10) and a staggering 19.3 yards per catch. Hill not only has front end speed he also has the moves to make you miss in open space. In addition to his offensive numbers he returns punts and kick-offs and finds the end-zone on specials. I got to see Ankeny play 2 times and he didn’t disappoint!
Rosenquest ( Sr. Newton 6-0 180 OLB) Check out these numbers, 55 tackles with 22 for a loss, now throw in 6 QB Sacks and a pick. So you want some offense how about 640 on the ground with 6 plus yards a touch and throw in 7 TD’s. This one’s a no brainer.
Koemer ( Sr Dowling) If you need a punt returned this is your guy! Over 18yds per try while taking one to the house and oh by the way he’s not bad on defense either. One of Dowling’s top tacklers and at the top in 4A in Picks (4). Kind of a Mr. Everything for the Maroon.
Milewsky ( Jr Urbandale) Another “Mr. Do Everything” excellent punt returner, led the team in tackles (68) and had a pick and if that’s not good enough he had 4 fumble recoveries. Yet another Junior.
Pinegar ( Sr. Ankeny Cent 6-3 195) Quality player on both sides of the ball, 640 yards with his feet and you better not throw his direction on the defensive side he’ll pick your pocket, State Leading (5) picks on the year
Kicker/Punter
Hahn (Sr Valley Kicker HWT & WGT does not matter he’s a kicker) Hahn is a kick-off Teams best friend, you seldom need to make a tackle. Not only does he have a thunder foot he also is accurate hitting 54% on FG with a long of over 52 yards. If I ever coach kickers I want Hahn!
Williams (Jr. SE Polk Kicker) Super accurate kicker, batted 100% on FG ( 11 for 11) with a long of 42 yards, remarkable accuracy for a HS Kicker.
Rademacher (Sr Ames Punter HWT & WGT does not matter he’s a punter) this senior kicked for a 40 + average and close to 1300 yards. Young man go ice that foot, you deserve it!
Player of the Year
Rory Walling (Sr. DSM East 6-0 207) Promise me when you’re done reading this you’ll go watch Hudl and visit Quik Stats. This guy is electrifying and one of the State’s top players on either side of the ball. Walling end the season as the top rusher in 4A Football (1,662) yards, top total offense (rushing and receiving) and scored 27 TD’s. In addition on defense he ends the season 4th in overall tackles (95) . What a talent and joy to watch, you will be missed.
Team of the Year
Ankeny Cent. I love this team! They have so many good players and do what's needed to win. I think they may have got lost in the moment in their 1 defeat... remember you heard it here first! What out for Ankeny Cent.
I will close by saying some Really Good Teams are not heavily represented even though those teams could win the State Championship! A handful of teams I seem really balanced with very good players ( a coach’s dream) but may not have the standout performer and/or the players played half the snaps due to lopsided scores which made it hard to evaluate.
With that said here is my List;
4A Football Central & NW “ Season’s Top Performers”
OFFENSE
What a group of talented weapons, needless to say this group can make a coach the happiest man alive or keep him awake at night if you have to defend against them.
Quarterbacks;
Hawkins (SR. Ankeny) What a great season leading his team into the playoffs and winning the District. Ended the season throwing for 1745 yards and 21 TD, combine that with an overall QB Rating of 184 there is no doubt Hawkins in one of the top QB’s in Iowa 4A. Like many of the Top Performers he can hurt you with both his feet and legs as Urbandale found out in their final game.
Lombardi ( SR Valley) The guy flat out wins and has over his entire career. Has a high completion percentage 61% and seldom makes bad throwing decisions ( only 2 picks in 134 attempts) . Lombardi is also blessed with a great QB’s body, has the height and strength to stand in the pocket and deliver the throw. Will be greatly missed at Valley by both fans and coaches. Great Career!
Duggan ( Soph CBLC) I got to see this young talent twice this season, left Urbandale game thinking WOW he’s got 2 more years! Accurate passer 180 QB Rating with a lot of zip on the ball, dangerous with his feet as his arm. This young QB throws the deep ball with pinpoint accuracy. When looking at his stats I learned CBLC only played 8 games due to a cancellation ( when comparing stats to others)
Backs;
Baker ( Soph CBTJ) Size, Speed & Strength is how one coach described this talented running back. Ends the regular season in 3rd place in rushing 1255 with over 9 yards per touch. Unfortunately I never got the opportunity to see Baker play this year but look forward to seeing him next year. Like Duggan another player we get to enjoy for 2 more years.
Zachary ( SR Dowling) over 900 rushing yards with 9 yards a touch. People may say he has the best line in HS to run behind, I say “SO WHAT” you try and stop him! He’s a headache waiting to happen at 6-1 225 and when teamed up with the next guy on the list they form one of the best 1-2 punches in the state.
Deskin (SR Dowling) I will catch hell for having 2 Dowling players on the list, but it’s my list. Power and Speed is how I describe Deskin. Over 9 yards a carry and 910 rushing yards with a long of 80 yards. Easy to see why Dowling is still the team to beat.
Mason ( Jr Valley) Ok my plan was only 3 backs but how the hell do I leave Mason off this list! Mason is a dual threat back that racked up close to 800 yards on the ground and another 300 receiving while finding the end-zone 19 times. With that said screw it, I’m having 4 backs on my list.
Receivers:
Mosley (Jr Fort Dodge) One of the top receivers in the State, has the speed to get to the end-zone ( 7 times with a long of 78 yards) . Top tier receiver in both catches 1st in 4A and total yards 4th in 4A while averaging 11.7 yards a reception He’s a young man I didn’t get to see however his stats are very impressive and had to be on this list.
Flemister ( SR. SC East) Did someone say SPEED! This kid has jets and can torch you running the ball or catching it as a receiver, if he gets a step he’s gone you won’t catch him. Has 1269 yds between running back and receiver ranking him 6th in total offense. Like Hill ( Ankeny) a dual threat player.
Jefferson ( Jr. DSM Hoover) Nice open field speed, good route runner. 6th in the state in receiving yards (689) with a staggering 18+ yards per catch. Another performer that can take it to the house with every touch.
Linemen: Sorry you all look good to me and it’s hard to see from the stands what’s happening in the trenches. It would be a dis-service to even try and pick the best of the best. I can tell you you’re critical to your teams success and you hardly ever get any love, doesn’t seem fair! Remember at the end of the day “the girls love the linemen and that’s really all the matters”. Each player on this list should thank you for helping them make the list.
Defense
My selections include a host of Juniors which include the “Top Tackler” in 4A Football, & the “Leading Sacker” in 4A Football along with a player attracting D-1 attention. Beyond those feats throw in a group of players that are blessed with Power & Speed and high football IQ … With all that you get my “Top Performers Defense"
Morrison ( Jr. Waukee 6-3 195 DE) Good pass rusher despite being on the lighter side, finds a way to get to the QB with 6.5 sacks on the year and 11.5 Tackles for Loss. Can also catch the ball on the offensive side when needed. Expect big things from him next year as he puts on more size.
Wiggins ( Sr. Waukee 6-3 240 DT ) Dowling had 2 players make the Offensive Backfield I guess Waukee can have two on the D-Line. Team Leading tackler on a Quality Defense, has a great frame for a HS Tackle. Excellent at penetrating the backfield, top 10 statewide in Tackles for Loss and throw in 5 QB sacks. Easy to see how Wiggins made the list.
Theobald ( Jr. CBLC 6-2 230 DE) 4A’s State Leader in QB Sacker (11.5) and 3rd in Tackles for Loss ( 21.5) Like Duggan these stats are in 8 games SC EAST shows cancelled. Watched CBLC play 2 games ( Ankeny & Urbandale) Theobald had 9 Tackles for loss & 6 Sacks in just those games along, that a season for most! Combines Speed/Strength/Size with a high motor.
Waggoner (Jr. Dowling 6-5 225 DE) Long arms, speed to the edge and great leverage. Does an excellent job of staying home and letting the play come to him then makes the tackle. Will continue to get better as his body fills out and he gets stronger. Like the others on the list Waggoner found a way to get to the QB with 6 sacks and 10.5 Tackles for Loss. Yet another Junior I get to watch again next year. From what I understand has attracted D-1 attention and rightfully so.
Baugher ( Jr. Ankeny 5-11 190 OLB) 4A’s Sate Leader in Tackles (101) Yes folks another Jr. and this one wakes up wanting to tackle! I had an opportunity to see Baugher play on two separate occasions, not sure he missed a single tackle either night BTW he also gets into the backfield recording 10 TOL and throw in 2 sacks as well.
Coleman ( Sr. Ames 6-0 190 OLB) One of the state leaders ( 5th) in overall tackles (85), not afraid to come up and fill the hole ( 5.5 TFL and 4.5 sacks)) , has the speed and size to stop ball carries from getting the extra yards. Also a good cover guy recording 2 picks on the season. Very athletic. Was also used on specials Kick-Return.
Naba ( Sr. Valley 6-0 255 DT) Naba is all about power, penetrates the backfield recorded 18 tackles for loss and Bull Rushes you on the pass 4.5 sacks. Team leader with 30+ tackles, if you want to be competitive with Valley it starts by controlling Naba
O’Hara ( Sr. Dowling 6-1 225 MLB) Tough Willie is the kind of guy you want playing the inside on your team. Great flow to the ball, his size and speed separates Willie from others I watched play this year. He’s one of those guys that gets off the bus and you just know he’s the real deal. Over 50 tackles on the year with 8.5 happening in the backfield then throw in 3sacks and you have one heck of a good D-Player.
Jackson (Jr. DSM Roosevelt 6-0 200 OLB) Anyone that records 85 tackles with 9 for loss and 5 QB sacks deserves a place on my list! Oh btw he also recorded 2 picks. One of 4A’s top tacklers Jackson a Junior has another year to display his talents
SPECIALS
Specials/Offense/Defense ( All around ATH can play either side effectively, these guys are a coach’s dream)
Hill (Jr Ankeny) This kid is electrifying and like Walling ( DSM East) you get out of your seat when he touches the ball. Tied for the State Lead in TD’s (10) and a staggering 19.3 yards per catch. Hill not only has front end speed he also has the moves to make you miss in open space. In addition to his offensive numbers he returns punts and kick-offs and finds the end-zone on specials. I got to see Ankeny play 2 times and he didn’t disappoint!
Rosenquest ( Sr. Newton 6-0 180 OLB) Check out these numbers, 55 tackles with 22 for a loss, now throw in 6 QB Sacks and a pick. So you want some offense how about 640 on the ground with 6 plus yards a touch and throw in 7 TD’s. This one’s a no brainer.
Koemer ( Sr Dowling) If you need a punt returned this is your guy! Over 18yds per try while taking one to the house and oh by the way he’s not bad on defense either. One of Dowling’s top tacklers and at the top in 4A in Picks (4). Kind of a Mr. Everything for the Maroon.
Milewsky ( Jr Urbandale) Another “Mr. Do Everything” excellent punt returner, led the team in tackles (68) and had a pick and if that’s not good enough he had 4 fumble recoveries. Yet another Junior.
Pinegar ( Sr. Ankeny Cent 6-3 195) Quality player on both sides of the ball, 640 yards with his feet and you better not throw his direction on the defensive side he’ll pick your pocket, State Leading (5) picks on the year
Kicker/Punter
Hahn (Sr Valley Kicker HWT & WGT does not matter he’s a kicker) Hahn is a kick-off Teams best friend, you seldom need to make a tackle. Not only does he have a thunder foot he also is accurate hitting 54% on FG with a long of over 52 yards. If I ever coach kickers I want Hahn!
Williams (Jr. SE Polk Kicker) Super accurate kicker, batted 100% on FG ( 11 for 11) with a long of 42 yards, remarkable accuracy for a HS Kicker.
Rademacher (Sr Ames Punter HWT & WGT does not matter he’s a punter) this senior kicked for a 40 + average and close to 1300 yards. Young man go ice that foot, you deserve it!
Player of the Year
Rory Walling (Sr. DSM East 6-0 207) Promise me when you’re done reading this you’ll go watch Hudl and visit Quik Stats. This guy is electrifying and one of the State’s top players on either side of the ball. Walling end the season as the top rusher in 4A Football (1,662) yards, top total offense (rushing and receiving) and scored 27 TD’s. In addition on defense he ends the season 4th in overall tackles (95) . What a talent and joy to watch, you will be missed.
Team of the Year
Ankeny Cent. I love this team! They have so many good players and do what's needed to win. I think they may have got lost in the moment in their 1 defeat... remember you heard it here first! What out for Ankeny Cent.
