6-Man football in Nebraska is always unpredictable — high scoring, fast-paced, and filled with teams that can rise out of nowhere. Because of that, it’s one of the toughest classes to track week after week. This season, NebraskaTok is partnering with Sixman FB Guru to bring you an expanded look: instead of the usual Top 10, we’re rolling out a Top 15 preseason list.
Preseason Top 15 Rankings
- Diller Odell
- Wauneta Palisade
- Ansley Litchfield
- Potter-Dix
- Meridian
- Wallace
- Hay Springs
- Southwest
- Leyton
- SEM
- Arthur County
- Pawnee City
- Red Cloud
- Stuart
- Garden County
Breaking Down the Top 4
#4 – Pawnee City
Pawnee City loses a lot on both sides of the ball, especially on offense where last year’s seniors accounted for 2,162 of 2,842 total yards. Still, they return their entire line on both sides, led by standout linebacker Dawson Wilkinson, one of the best players in D6. The offense will need to lean on less-experienced athletes, but the defense could be strong enough to win six games by itself.
#3 – Red Cloud
Few teams are set up better than Red Cloud. They return all six starters, giving them continuity and experience across the board. Key names to watch include Gage Ely at back and Hunter Englehart at halfback/linebacker. Their offensive line, working as a unit, provides a strong foundation. This team’s ceiling is sky high, and they’re not far from making a case for the #2 spot.
#2 – Stuart
Stuart brings back three of six starters on defense and four of six on offense. Their roster is loaded with star talent: Kayde Ramm (arguably a Top 3 player in D6), Owen Litua and Drew Schmaderer (two top 10 backs), and center Cameron Kaup, a difference-maker in the trenches. Offensively, Stuart still deserves the nod, but some adjusting will be needed as they rebuild pieces of their line.
#1 – Garden County
Garden County edges Stuart for the preseason #1 spot. They return five of six starters, led by quarterback Kole Fornander, who is among the best signal callers in 6-Man. In the backfield, Wilsie Lobner and Kyan Kramer provide balance and explosiveness, while linemen Javis Underwood and Jase Roberson are among the elite in D6. Defensively, Garden County appears stronger than Stuart, and their fundamental approach makes them the most complete team entering the season.
Garden County vs. Stuart: Why the Nod Goes to the Eagles
Both teams boast three-headed monsters in the backfield, but their styles differ. Stuart relied more heavily on power running and the consistency of their offensive line, which lost key starters. Garden County, meanwhile, leaned more on outside runs and athleticism, making them less dependent on line depth. On defense, Garden County also appears superior, holding their own against SEM better than Stuart did last season.
Final Thoughts
The gap between the top 3–4 teams and the rest of the field is significant — these programs look like championship-caliber squads. However, don’t count out Leyton, Southwest, or Arthur County. With the speed, athleticism, and unpredictability of 6-Man football, any of these teams could climb the rankings and crash the party.
This season promises to be another thrilling ride for Class D6, and NebraskaTok will be here all year to cover the action.
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