2-A: Preseason Top-5 Poll

#5: Murray Tigers

District: 1

2012 record: 10-3

The Murray Tigers, our number five team, actually defeated our number four team in last year's playoffs.

With quarterback Dylan Boone and running back Jaleel Lee returning they will compete in a very tough district against Caldwell County.

#4: Owensboro Catholic Aces

District: 2

2012 record: 11-1

Our number four team, Owensboro Catholic, had only one loss on the season in 2012 and it was the one that sent them home.

It was a very close call between the Aces and our number three team before they were eventually moved to number four. Owensboro Catholic will go as far as senior quarterback Houston Hartz will take them.

#3: Somerset Briar Jumpers

District: 7

2012 record: 11-3

With the most interesting nickname, the Somerset Briar Jumpers come in at number 3 in our preseason rankings.

A loss to NCC in semi-state last year gives them a chip on their shoulder. Senior Kagen Skidmore is their offensive lineman with an offer from EKU and interest from Kentucky. He leads an experienced group of young men in the trenches. Fellow senior kick returning extraordinaire and wide receiver Cam Cheuvront will be a play maker for this team.

#2: Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbreds

District: 6

2012 record: 11-4

The only other team besides our number one team to receive first place votes in our poll was the Newport Central Catholic Thoroughbreds.

With a new coach they will attempt to win two straight titles in 2-A where they have been a force for years. Wide receiver turned quarterback Mac Franzen will take care of the signal-calling duties for the Thoroughbreds in his senior campaign. The sophomore back, Jacob Smith, is going to see an increased number of carries in their system. Those two will be replacing Dylan Hayes and Josh Cain from last year's squad, which will be a pretty large void.

#1: Caldwell County Tigers

District: 1

2012 record: 11-4

Coming in second place is never fun, however starting at number one the next season with a loaded roster is a nice consolation prize. Caldwell County will begin their quest to make it back to Bowling Green and leave the victors.

To help them they have notable prospect Elijah Sindelar at the quarterback position who is hearing from the likes of Kentucky, Alabama and Ohio State. He won't have to look very hard for his 6'8" wide out Eli Pepper this year that will complement a receiving corps with Demetrius Cain at the helm. This team truly runs a balanced spread and implements running back Jaylen Boyd very well.

Fort Campbell, Murray and Mayfield are some big games this year for the Tigers.

Others receiving votes: Danville

Thanks to Ryan Roberts of NKY Sports, Brian Eldridge of Scout.com and Joe Mathis of WBHN 1420 AM for their votes.