The favorites are well known and spend the season with a bullseye on their backs. The grapplers on this list are hidden gems, and while talented wrestlers they are often ranked just outside the top 5. However make no mistake, each and everyone of them are capable of making a deep run in March.

125- Osmany Diversent-

Osmany is a freshman at Iowa State and enters the United States out of Cuba.Although just a freshman, he has a wealth of experience, representing Cuba in numerous international tournaments. He is a 3x Caban national champion, a Central American Gold Medalist, as well as a Pan Am Champion. On top of all that, he has a victory over 2024 NCAA Champions Richard Figueroa. Of course his accomplishments are in freestyle wrestling, and he will have some adjustments to make to get used to folkstyle.

133-Drake Ayala-

Drake had a tremendous 23-24 season , as he finished as NCAA runner up. However his weight cut to make 125 was really taking its toll on Drake, 133 is a much more natural fit, for the Hawkeye. At 133 he hasn’t had to worry as much about cutting weight and has instead spent his time perfecting his craft. In early season practice, Drake has looked much improved wrestling with Spencer Lee and Austin DeSanto.

141-Sergio Lemley-

We saw flashes of brilliance from Sergio during his freshman season which saw him put together a 19-9 season while going 1-2 at the NCAA tournament. Prior to his disappointing tournament, he was able to score quality wins over 3rd place finisher Brock Hardy, and former NCAA finalist Real Woods. This kids top game is absolutely sick.

149-Kannon Webster-

Kannon Webster had a tremendous redshirt season last year, wrestling unattached for the University of Illinois. As a true freshman he managed to put together an impressive 19-1 record. Defeating talented wrestlers Caleb Rathjen, Jesse Vasquez, and #5 Dylan D’Emillio. His only loss on the year came against NCAA 4th place finisher Ty Waters of West Virginia, a close 4-2 decision. With another year of wrestling under his belt, the sky’s the limit with this kid.

157-Paniro Johnson-

Paniro burst onto the scene during the 22/23 season, he quickly put together an impressive freshman campaign. During that season he became the first 149 Big 12 Champion in program history. During that season he racked up wins over all-americans Brock Mauller, Max Murin, and NCAA finalist Austin Gomez. He also pushed Yianni D. to the limits, before losing in overtime to the 4X NCAA Champion. At the 23 NCAA Tournament he kind of just fell apart, and severely underperformed. He missed last season due to a bogus gambling suspension. If Paniro has continued to improve and can overcome his NCAA jitters, he is more than capable of reaching the NCAA finals.

165-Terrell Barraclough-

Bear Claw was a 4X Utah state champion before arriving at Penn State, where he has spent his career serving the team in the backup roll. Last season at Penn State he finished the year 12-2. Losing 3-2 against Former NCAA Champion Shane Griffith and 2-1 against NCAA Champion Levi Haines. While hanging with those two studs says a lot about his ability. Carter Starocci is also on record saying Terrell is one of the best in the country. WHile I really can’t see Bear Claw winning the weight class, I could see him making the finals.

184 -Gabe Arnold-

Gabe burst onto the scene last season for the Hawkeyes, Helping them secure a huge dual meet victory over Iowa State when he bumped up in weight and defeated #6 ranked Will Feldkamp. He also captured championship victories at the Soldier Salute and Luther Open. He went 12-1 on the season. Prior to college he was a 2x National Prep Champion as well as an Iowa State champion. Gabe was also a 2023 US Open champion. Gabe has a unique blend of speed and strength that makes him tough to beat. It will be exciting to watch him the next few years.

174-Nelson Brands-

To start its hard to say what kind of shape Nelson is in after missing all of last season. However if he has continued training and honing his skills he could be a frontrunner is a very top heavy weight class. Make no mistake 174 is absolutely loaded. Nelson did place 5th 2 years ago at the weight class so we know he is capable of making the podium. He also has a close 2-1 lose to Carter Starocci, so we know he can hang with the best of the best. With his deep gas tank, and a deadly combination of speed and strength he is very dangerous in a tournament setting. He has quality wins over All-Americans Taylor Venz, Sam Colbray, Zach Braunagel, and Edmond Ruth.

197-Zach Glazier-

Zach had an impressive 25-4 season last year, the highlight was majoring former Big 10 champion Silas Allred of Nebraska. He also knocked off #4th ranked Jaxon Smith of Maryland. He was also the only wrestler to hold Aaron Brooks to a decision  during the regular season. He also has a win over 2021 NCAA Champion AJ Ferrari. With Brooks out of the picture, this could be the year for Glazier.

HWT-Yonger Bastida-

The Cuban import, brought with him a wealth of experience as he migrated to Ames Iowa in early 2020. However his experience came in freestyle wrestling and he had to learn the ropes of Americas rugged folkstyle.  After going 4-4 during his freshman campaign, we have seen steady improvement from Mr. Bastida, and this year as a senior he is an NCAA title contender. He has quality wins over all-americans Nick Feldman, Jacob Warner and Wyatt Hendrickson.

Located at 601 Bear Town Rd, in Renick, West Virginia, Beartown State Park is a stunning natural wonder nestled in the heart of West Virginia. This 107-acre park boasts unique rock formations, scenic vistas and diverse wildlife. For more information, click here.

These beautiful pictures were taken by the talented Heather Glenn

Natural Wonders and Amenities Beartown State Park features an impressive boardwalk trail winding through a picturesque forest, showcasing massive boulders, overhanging rocks and tranquil streams. Visitors can explore the park’s unique geology and spot rare plant species. Amenities include picnic areas, grills, restrooms and a playground for kids.

These beautiful pictures were taken by the talented Heather Glenn

Points of Interest Points of interest within the park include: – The Boardwalk Trail: A 1/2-mile loop through stunning rock formations – The Overlook: Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside – The Stream: Explore shallow waters and unique rock formations.

These beautiful pictures were taken by the talented Heather Glenn

Enjoy various activities: – Hiking and nature walks – Birdwatching and wildlife spotting – Picnicking and grilling – Photography and geocaching – Seasonal events and nature programs.

These beautiful pictures were taken by the talented Heather Glenn

Plan Your Visit Beartown State Park is open year-round, offering seasonal attractions like spring wildflowers and fall foliage. Visit today and discover West Virginia’s natural beauty!

These beautiful pictures were taken by the talented Heather Glenn

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

Laurel River Lake, nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest (1433 Laurel Boat Dock Rd, London, KY 40741), boasts an idyllic beach perfect for warm-weather escapades. For more information, click here.

Mike Gealy

The Beach and Activities Laurel River Lake’s pristine beach offers a tranquil oasis, inviting sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike. With its crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy shoreline, this hidden gem is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and relaxation.

Mike Gealy

Water Activities Beyond the beach, Laurel River Lake offers an array of exciting water activities. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking or paddleboarding through the lake’s calm waters, exploring its many coves and inlets. For thrill-seekers, jet skiing and power boating provide an adrenaline-packed experience.

Mike Gealy

Land-Based Delights When taking a break from water activities, the surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest offers hiking trails, picnic areas and scenic overlooks. Nature lovers can spot wildlife, including deer, turkey and eagles, amidst the lush forest.

Mike Gealy

Year-Round Fun Laurel River Lake transforms into a winter wonderland during colder months, perfect for skiing, ice fishing and cozy cabin retreats. As spring blooms, vibrant wildflowers and greenery surround the lake, creating a serene atmosphere. Whether seeking summer adventure or autumn foliage, Laurel River Lake promises unforgettable experiences.

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

Google/Lysandra Neal

The Heavyweight division has been particularity interesting in the last 10 years. We have seen tremendous talent, from Kyle Snyder, to Gable Steveson to Mason Parris it has been very exciting to see these titans of the mat do battle. This years heavyweight division is equally intriguing . With two former world champions, a Cuban import and a wealth of up and comers. all looking to claim that top spot.

1 Greg Kerkvliet

The Penn State wrestler is the reining and defending NCAA Champion, and there’s no reason to think that will change this year. (Although his recent back flare up does have us concerned.) He has a career record of 79-10 and is already a 4x all-american. He was also a 2017 cadet all-american.

2 Wyatt Hendrickson

Wyatt Brings a 101-12 record into his senior season after leading the nation in pins for the last 3 years. While wretling for the Air Force he is a 3x all-american and has finished 3rd the last two seasons. NOw at Oklahoma State under coach David Taylor, it will be interesting to see what he can do.

3 Nick Feldman

NIck was the number 1 pound for pound wrestler coming out of high school, and so far into his college career he has not disappointed. So far he has a 32-8 college career, however his trajectory seems to be heading straight to the top. In his first year at Ohio State he was a Big 10 runner up, while finishing 5th at the NCAA Tournament. Nick has quality wins over NCAA finalists, Cohlton Schultz and Lucas Davison. Nick is a serious contender for an NCAA title this season.

4 Yonger Bastida

The Cuban import, brought with him a wealth of experience as he migrated to Ames Iowa in early 2020. However his experience came in freestyle wrestling and he had to learn the ropes of Americas rugged folkstyle.  After going 4-4 during his freshman campaign, we have seen steady improvement from Mr. Bastida, and this year as a senior he is an NCAA title contender. He has quality wins over all-americans Nick Feldman, Jacob Warner and Wyatt Hendrickson.

5 Cohlton Schultz

A 2017 Cadet World Champion, Cohlton joined the college ranks with a ton of hype and he quickly delivered the results, Arizona State coaches were looking for. Already a 4x all-american and 4x Pac 12 Champion. Also a 4x US Open Champion and a 10x world team member. However he seems to have hitten a wall in recent years. Placing 2nd as a sophomore at the NCAA tournament, he has dropped to 7th and 6th the last two years. With his final year of eligibility, we are hoping to see him climb back to the top of the podium.

6 Ben Kueter

Ben enters the college world with a ton of hype. Possibly the best Iowa athlete ever, I know that’s quite a statement, but this kid won state in Track and Field as well as wrestling and is also a highly touted football player. On the mat he was a perfect 111-0 with 4 state titles, with 74 career pins. In addition to that he was a Junior freestyle world champion and a 2022 U20 world champion. The only knock against Ben is that he is fairly small for a heavyweight. They sky is the limit for this kid.

7 Yaraslau Slavikouski

The 3x NCAA Qualifier and 2024 all-american is back as a super senior with one last shot at glory. Finished last season on the #7 podium spot at the national tournament, with a career record of 86-23. His biggest win of last season was over an injured Yonger Bastida at nationals. I really don’t see him improving on last years performance.

8 Nathan Taylor

A Pennsylvania state champion in high school, Nathan has been a consistent wrestler for Lehigh at the college level.  Last season he went 25-5 and finished 1 match shy of reaching the podium. With a 42-17 career record, this could be the year Nate Taylor breaks through and lands himself on the podium.

Iowa opens their home dual meet season Saturday November 9th in at 1 pm Iowa City, as the #2 ranked Hawkeyes host the #12 Ranked Stanford Cardinals. The dual features 14 ranked wrestlers, and 1 match that will feature top 3 wrestlers from both programs.

Don’t Miss: Michael Caliendo  VS Hunter Garvin  at 165 should be a fantastic match, pitting two top ranked wrestlers against each other.

Keys To Victory:   For Iowa, the key to victory is easy, win the matches they are favored in and pick up bonus points where possible. For Stanford, they need to win the close matches. If they can pick up wins at 141, 149, 157, 165, and score a bonus point at 125, they do have a narrow path to victory. For this to happen, just about everything needs to go wrong for the Hawkeyes, which isn’t likely.

125 Kale Peterson or Joey Cruz VS Nico Provo #11 or forfeit

133 Drake Ayala #3 VS Tyler Knox #18

141 Ryder Block VS Jake Consiglio or  Chayse Lajoie

149 Kyle Parco #4 VS Jaden Abas #11

157 Jacori Teemer #1 or Caleb Rathjen VS Grigor Cholakyan

165 Michael Caliendo #2 VS Hunter Garvin #3

174 Nelson Brands #5  VS Lorenzo Norman #19

184  Gabe Arnold #6 VS Brook Byers or Luke Duthie

197 Steven Buchanan #1 VS Nick Stemmet #13

285 Ben Kueter #11 VS Peter Ming or Jackson Mankowski

Conclusion: While Iowa is favored in 9 of the 10 matches. There are several bouts that could go either way. I expect Stanford to show up with something to prove and wrestle Iowa real tough. Caliendo vs Garvin has the potential to be the match of the night. Interesting Fact: Stanford 165 lb Hunter Garvin is a former Iowa City West wrestler, where he was a 3X Iowa State Champion. I could see Iowa winning all 10 bouts and taking a 33-0 victory.