MaxPreps 2014 Wyoming preseason high school football Fab 5

1. Natrona County (Casper)
2013 finish: 8-4
Head coach: Steve Harshman

After winning a state title in 2012, Natrona County fell short last year with an 8-4 season. However the return of four all-state players, including multi-talented Logan Wilson, the Mustangs could emerge as the favorites to win the 4A title. Wilson made all-state at four positions last year — receiver, defensive back, punter and kicker. He's joined by fellow all-state players Stevann Brown at running back, Josh Harshman at linebacker and Austin Luers at tight end.

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2. East (Cheyenne)
2013 finish: 10-2
Head coach: Chad Goff

East captured the state championship last year after finishing in second place in the regular season standings. East has the benefit of returning all-state quarterback Tevis Bartlett, who also made the all-state team at defensive back. Bartlett, who is being recruited by Wyoming and Oregon, threw for 1,521 yards and also rushed for 1,400 yards. He is also the state's top wrestler, winning three state championships including a 46-0 record last year. All-state linebacker Ben Wisdorf returns to lead the defense.



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3. Powell
2013 finish: 12-0
Head coach: Jim Stringer

The 3A state champions have won three state titles in a row and have a 27-game win streak entering the season. Coach Stringer has just seven starters returning from last year, but he has an undefeated junior varsity team moving up. Top returning players include Ty Herd at running back, Kalei Smith at wide receiver and Riley Stringer on the offensive line. Herd rushed for 867 yards last year while Smith caught 18 passes for 475 yards and eight scores.

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4. Campbell County (Gillette)
2013 finish: 10-1
Head coach: Vic Wilkerson

The Camels saw an undefeated season come to an end with a playoff loss to Natrona County. Although a number of the team's top offensive players have graduated, including quarterback Austin Fort, the defense should be outstanding with all-conference defensive linemen Brandon Shelstad, linebackers Zach Taylor (Jr.) and Jordan Fischer and defensive back Caden Erickson all returning. Wide receiver Talon Nelson is the top returning offensive performer.

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5. Big Horn
2013 finish: 10-1
Head coach: Bobby St. John

The Eagles won the final eight games of the season to claim the Class 2A state championship. Much of the team comes back intact as all-state players Christian Mayer (WR), Mason Lube (MLB), Ryan Kobielusz (WR) and Seth Kite (WR) return.