2016 Iowa Preseason Football Fab 5, presented by the Army National Guard

Video: Rocky Lombardi Ultimate Highlights
See the Valley QB in action last season

1. Dowling (West Des Moines)
Head coach: Tom Wilson
2015 record: 13-0
Team preview

Dowling has reeled off three straight Class 4A state titles. The Maroons bring back top-level talent across the board and are eyeing a four-peat.

Dowling returns a meaty offensive line that will be anchored by Miami of Ohio commit Peter Nank. The Maroons have a steady stable of running backs as well in Jacob Zachary and Cole Deskin, who combined for 1,771 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns last season. Expect Iowa State commit Jake Hummel to head the experienced defense after posting 66 tackles and 13 for loss last season.

Sept. 9 marks a big-time showdown with Valley, a rematch of last year's Class 4A state semifinal.

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2. Valley (West Des Moines)
Head coach: Gary Swenson
2015 record: 10-3
Team preview

Valley ended last season with a nail-biting loss to Dowling in a Class 4A state semifinal. But the Tigers have one of country's best quarterbacks and are hungry for revenge.

Valley will look to senior quarterback Rocky Lombardi to get the job done. The nation's No. 13 dual-threat quarterback torched defenses for 2,258 passing yards and 21 touchdowns last season. Also watch for running back Jevon Mason to be a lethal weapon after attaining all-state honors last year.

Sept. 9 is the long-awaited date for the Tigers, as they finally square off against Dowling with redemption on their minds.

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3. Kennedy (Cedar Rapids)
Head coach: Tim Lewis
2015 record: 13-1
Team preview

Kennedy finished last season with a deflating loss to Dowling in the Class 4A state championship. But the Cougars should bounce back with veteran playmakers on both sides of the ball and are primed for payback.

Senior Linebacker Johnson Mator should spearhead the defense after earning an all-state distinction last season. Also look for veteran Jackson Coker to make a huge impact as a two-way stud.

Sept. 2 marks a huge test against Washington, a rematch of last year's Class 4A state quarterfinal.

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4. Pella
Head coach: Jay McKinstrey
2015 record: 14-0
Team preview Pella is riding a 31-game winning streak and has claimed two consecutive Class 3A state titles. The Dutch return a big bulk of the roster and are poised for a three-peat.

Oct. 7 marks colossal clash with Norwalk, a rematch of last year's Class 3A state championship.

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5. Spirit Lake
Head coach: Josh Bolluyt
2015 record: 14-0
Team preview

Spirit Lake polished off last year's unbeaten season by capturing a Class 2A state championship. The Indians own an impressive 26-1 record over the past two years and are ready to repeat.

The Indians kick off the season with a duel against Lincoln Central, a playoff foe from last year.