West Des Moines Valley Claims Top Spot in Class 5A Rankings

West Des Moines, Iowa – After a thrilling start to the high school football season, West Des Moines Valley has ascended to the No. 1 position in the Class 5A rankings. This marks the fourth consecutive week that a new team has occupied the top spot, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the competition. Valley returned to prominence following a narrow victory over rival West Des Moines Dowling, winning by just a single point in poll points, despite Dowling receiving more first-place votes.

Valley earned 56 poll points from the panel compared to Dowling’s 55. The shift in rankings was further influenced by the upset of former No. 1 Ankeny Centennial by Southeast Polk and Valley’s win against then-No. 2 Waukee.

For fans tracking the year’s drama: Ankeny began the season as the top seed, then got dethroned by Valley in Week 1, followed by Dowling, and then Centennial. Looking ahead, both Valley and Dowling are favorites heading into this week’s match, along with Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley, who are third and fourth, respectively.

Meanwhile, Class A has also seen a change at the top after an unexpected loss by the former leaders, Woodbury Central. Thanks to a close 22-21 upset by Le Mars Gehlen, Guthrie Center ACGC has claimed the number one position in Class A.

The Chargers continued their good form by defeating South Central Calhoun last week with a score of 28-14. Despite the loss, West Hancock remains competitive, having secured their 15th consecutive victory with a dominating 46-7 win over North Union.

In the Class 4A rankings, reigning champions Lewis Central held on to their top spot after overcoming Bondurant-Farrar 24-14, marking their 13th straight win. Pella and North Polk also maintained strong positions, sitting at second and third, respectively.

The season’s unpredictability has made it more exciting for players and fans alike, as rankings shift week to week. This week promises more action as teams compete for pride and position in the standings.