Central listed in preseason football magazines

Central College

PELLA — Central College is No. 15 in Lindy’s preseason Division III top 25 football rankings while another football preview magazine, Sporting News College Football, calls the Dutch a team to watch.

In a predictable prediction, defending champion Wis.-Whitewater and powerhouse Mount Union (Ohio) hold the top two spots in both magazine rankings. Those two squads have met in the past six Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl contests.

Lindy’s has Iowa Conference rival Wartburg ahead of Central at No. 8. In the Sporting News rankings, Wartburg is No. 12 and Coe is No. 23.

The Sporting News preview highlights the Dutch: “At Central, the key will be the play of the offensive and defensive lines, as quarterback Nate Snead can hurt defenses and running back Ross Doehrmann is solid. On defense, safety Jake Petersen should be a playmaker.”

Snead (senior, Altoona, Southeast Polk HS), a two-time first-team all-conference honoree, has passed for 2,793 yards in his Central career, while rushing for 1,548. Last year he completed 96 of 179 passes for 1,510 yards with seven interceptions and 12 touchdowns. He rushed for 642 yards on 142 carries with 15 scores.

Doehrmann (junior, Williamsburg) gained 522 yards on 109 carries with two touchdowns.

Petersen (senior, Gladbrook, Gladbrook-Reinbeck HS), a first-team all-league pick, made 43 tackles last season, including 32 solo stops. He intercepted three passes, broke up two and blocked a kick.

Central, 8-2 last year, returns 11 starters. The Dutch, who have not endured a losing season since 1960, have won or shared 30 conference championships and made 20 NCAA playoff appearances. Coach Jeff McMartin heads into his eighth year with a 61-15 (.802) record.

Central opens the 2011 campaign at Wis.-Oshkosh Sept. 3.