6A Preseason Rankings

We are less than a month away from high school football. That means it's time for Sota HS Sports Preseason 6A rankings:

1. Maple Grove 
In 2022, the Crimson took home the 6A state title with one of the most impressive rosters I've seen. I think that this team is similar but even better. On offense is 2-star North Dakota State commit WR Dylan Vokal. Committed to North Dakota are 3-star Michael Wagner, as well as a pair of 2-stars, Charles Langama and Nathan Hromadka. On defense is Cornell commit LB Bo Draheim. Also headed to NDSU to play linebacker is 2-star Jacob Wrbanek. Combine this with one of the most underrated QBs in the state, Kaden Harney, and I'm confident we're looking at our 2024 state champions. My only drawback is the sudden changes within the coaching staff, including a new head coach, Adam Spurrell. We'll have to see if this plays a factor.

2. Shakopee
I know what you are thinking. Why is a team that went 6-4 in 2023 even in the rankings, let alone this high? What you need to know is that this team is legit. Coming into the season with multiple Division 1 committed seniors, including 3-star Trey Boyd, 2-star Brody Miller, and 2-star Max Coles. Along with them return a starting quarterback, leading rusher, leading receiver, and familiar faces on defense. Oh, and did I mention the #2 RB in the 2026 class transferred in this year? Yeah, this team is nothing short of talent, and I expect to see them in late November.

3. Eden Prairie
Once again, Eden Prairie falls short of their state championship aspirations in 2023. Sometimes, however, a close loss is the exact motivation a team needs to get the job done. With arguably the greatest high school coach in Minnesota's history, Mike Grant, the Eagles aim to finish the job this year. They return some great athletes, none greater than the #1 RB in the state, Elijah Rumph.

4. Lakeville South
Lakeville South has been one of the most dominant programs in recent history. I believe this team has everything it takes to continue this trend. With an athletic QB, Gaven Dean, as well as some solid backs, the offense will shine. Combine that with the studs on defense, such as Division 1-offered Bo Bokman, and South is a good squad.

5. Lakeville North
The Panthers are led by 3-year starting QB and UMD commit, Riley Grossman. That's not the only experience coming back on this team, however. The top three receivers also reinstall themselves, including South Dakota State commit, Sebastyen Fries. While I do think very highly of this offense, I'm still not sold on the defense. Nonetheless, North will be a dangerous team.

6. Edina
Last year, Edina was one of the most exciting teams to watch. Lucky for us, they bring back three of the best football players in the state. These include #2 2026 QB Mason West, #1 receiver in the state and Cal commit Meyer Swinney, and 3-star South Dakota State commit Trillion Sorrell. No defense is safe when facing this Hornets offense.

7. Minnetonka
The Skippers have been so close to being elite for so long. This team follows suit, in my opinion. It's the defense that stands out on paper. Anchored by South Dakota LB commit Dylan Hudgens and St. Thomas DB commit Malachi Boadi, this team has a chance to make a run.

8. Anoka
I believe this could be one of the best Anoka teams we have seen in a long time. Peyton Podany, the #2 QB in his class, looks to bring some wins to his school. Assisted by 2-star Afy Ibekwe and some young RBs, this could be one of the best teams in the north metro. The Tornados' defense is led by All-Metro Zach Welch.

9. Stillwater
If you couldn't see the trend, there are some amazing QBs on this list. The Stillwater Ponies will be relying on theirs, Nick Kinsey. Kinsey is the #1 2026 QB and holds six Division 1 offers. I imagine his top target this year will be transfer receiver Owen Egge, who holds an FBS offer. The rest of this team is very solid overall. I don't see many weaknesses nor exceeding strengths, so I'm curious to watch.

10. Cenntenial
Rounding out the top 10 I have the defending state champs. This team looks significantly different than the previous year. With that being said, the coaching staff proved they can put together a team and win big games. Expect just that.

Preseason 6A rankings
1. Maple Grove
2. Shakopee
3. Eden Prairie
4. Lakeville South
5. Lakeville North
6. Edina
7. Minnetonka
8. Anoka
9. Stillwater
10. Cenntenial

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