Football 2012: Area 3A preview

The following is a preseason football glance for area Class 3A districts:

3A DISTRICT 5

Overview -- There will be a new champion in 3A this year (2011 champ Union is down to 2A now), and

Decorah is among the most likely teams to assume the throne. Last year's runner-up returns one of the state's best two-way performers in Josie Jewell (1,475 yards, 144 tackles).

West Delaware has some rebuilding to do after reaching the quarterfinals, but the Hawks always put a quality outfit on the field.

Western Dubuque brings back its No. 1 tackler (Mason Simon-Ressler), and

Vinton-Shellsburg has some nice pieces awaiting new coach Jim Womochil, the former coach at Cedar Rapids Jefferson.

How they'll finish (*playoff qualifier) -- 1. Decorah*, 2. West Delaware*, 3. Western Dubuque*, 4. Vinton-Shellsburg*, 5. Crestwood, 6. Oelwein, 7. Independence.

3A DISTRICT 6

Overview -- This will be interesting: Mike Miller left Lone Tree to take the job at

DeWitt Central, and the Sabers appear to be the top challenger for

Solon and Mike Miller's older brother, Kevin. A non-qualifier for the playoffs last year, Central has a lot of room to grow -- the Sabers return their top passer, top rusher and top receiver. Solon has some holes to fill, but will be well-fortified at receiver.

Maquoketa enjoyed a breakthrough season last year, and should battle

Marion for the third spot. The Indians bring back most of a big line, and will be hungry after an uncharacteristic 4-5 season in 2011.

How they'll finish (*playoff qualifier) -- 1. Solon*, 2. DeWitt Central*, 3. Maquoketa*, 4. Marion*, 5. Clear Creek Amana, 6. Benton Community, 7. Anamosa.

3A DISTRICT 7

Overview -- With another Vandenberg (now it's Gabe) slinging the ball,

Keokuk figures to advance far beyond the first round of the playoffs, which is where the Chiefs ended in 2011. Three other teams from this district --

Williamsburg, Washington and

Fairfield also reached the postseason and were one-and-out. Defense appears to be the strength of all of them. Williamsburg brings back three of its top four tacklers, including team leader Bryan MacDonald.

How they'll finish (*playoff qualifier) -- 1. Keokuk*, 2. Williamsburg*, 3. Washington*, 4. Fairfield*, 5. Mount Pleasant, 6. Fort Madison, 7. Centerville.