MaxPreps 2012 Kentucky preseason football Fab 5

By Stephen Spiewak Aug 13, 2012, 5:00am

Trinity is the top team in the Bluegrass State, but don't forget Highlands, St. Xavier, Scott County and Lexington Catholic.

Trinity has reloaded after a spectacular season last year, falling just short of a national title. The Shamrocks are our easy pick as the best team in Kentucky this season.
Trinity has reloaded after a spectacular season last year, falling just short of a national title. The Shamrocks are our easy pick as the best team in Kentucky this season.
Photo by Wayne Litmer

MaxPreps 2012 Kentucky Preseason Fab 5 presented by the Army National Guard

1. Trinity (Louisville)
2011 finish: 14-0
Head coach: Bob Beatty
Team Preview
The team that finished No. 2 nationally last season will once again be in contention for a mythical national championship, as it is ranked No. 12 in the Preseason Xcellent 25. Coming off the greatest season in Kentucky state history, it may be hard to be as good as the 2011 Shamrocks, but this year's squad will show very little drop-off. The offense, with Travis Wright, James Quick and Dalyn Dawkins, will be just fine. Jason Hatcher and Ryan White will power the defense. The team's offensive line needs to come together, but that is nitpicking an otherwise outstanding team. Trinity heads the list of Kentucky's Top 10 most consistent football programs and also will have to replace two players found on the list of Kentucky Class of 2012 Division 1 signees.

2. Highlands (Fort Thomas)
2011 finish: 15-0
Head coach: Dale Mueller
Team Preview
Highlands has proven to be the top public school program in Kentucky. Under Dale Mueller's leadership, Highlands has won five consecutive state titles. It will need to replace quarterback Patrick Towles, but early returns on replacements have been positive. With Drew Houliston, Beau Hoge (son of NFL analyst Merril Hoge) and Donovan McCoy in the mix, there could be several quarterbacks vying for the starting spot. Luckily, there is great depth at running back and receiver, including Jac Collinsworth, son of Cris Collinsworth. Highlands will look to get back to winning state titles, as you can see the school listed often on the list of Kentucky state football champions for the past 10 years.

3. St. Xavier (Louisville)

2011 finish: 8-5
Head coach: Mike Glaser
Team Preview
An 8-5 record last year was definitely an outlier on head coach Mike Glaser's resume at St. Xavier. In 2012, the Tigers look to rebound and again compete for a Class 6A state title. Running back Brandon Moore will likely be the focal point of the team's offense while defensive lineman Karl Roesler and linebacker Deonte Clyburn will lead the defense. While Trinity seems to be on top of the Class 6A scene, never count out St. Xavier. In the rivalry between the teams, anything can happen. St. Xavier ranked No. 2 in our June, 2011 list of the Top 10 Kentucky football dynasties.

4. Scott County (Georgetown)
2011 finish: 14-1
Head coach: Jim McKee
Team Preview
It may be hard for Scott County to repeat its magical 14-1 season of a year ago. However, there is some returning talent that should keep the Cardinals among the state's elite. Running back Dierrieus Dumphord rushed for 1,148 yards and 19 touchdowns and is back for his senior season. Sophomore quarterback Clay McKee may slide into the starting job. Linebacker Damon Gray will lead a young defense that will have its share of new faces. Search for Scott County players on the list of 2011 Kentucky All-District football teams.

5. Lexington Catholic
2011 finish: 11-3
Head coach: Bill Letton
Team Preview
Lexington Catholic looks to build on an 11-3 season that came to an end with a blowout loss to Highlands in the state playoffs. Quarterback Kyle Bolin will be one of the area's premier quarterbacks. He should enjoy a highly productive senior season. Receiver Sam Letton could emerge as a top target as only a freshman.



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