The only unbeaten remaining in Class 5A heading into Week 8, Southeast Polk has hung its hat on defense and running the football. The latter is where Cooper comes in. The senior ball carrier has been a handful for opponents with a combination of power, wiggle and vision. The traits have paved the way to rushing for 1,163 yards (8.1 YPC) and 17 touchdowns, both of which lead the classification heading into Week 8 of the campaign. Cooper can take a hit and keep plowing forward, often dishing out more punishment than the would-be tackler. There’s burst through the line and another gear in the open field. He also remains available along the recruiting trail and would be an asset to a lot of programs on the next level.

Cooper would be the first to credit his offensive line for his performance in Friday’s rewarding win against defending state champion Dowling Catholic. While the guys up front deserve their flowers, Cooper is worthy of his own bouquet. The senior running back rumbled 29 times for 196 yards and three touchdowns in helping end the Maroons’ 15-game winning streak. I watched Cooper in Week 2 at Liberty. He flashed a power game that you don’t often see at this level. His ability to drive through would-be tacklers and keep pushing forward wears down a defense. What impressed me as much as the strength was how agile and nimble he carries the size. Cooper can make guys miss and hit the gas when reaching an opening. That he’s still not receiving more interest on the recruiting trail is surprising.

Although Southeast Polk took a noticeable step back in their performance in 2025, the offense still benefitted greatly from the breakout of standout Stanley Cooper Stanley Cooper 6'0" | 225 lbs | RB Southeast Polk | 2027 State IA in the run game. While splitting carries with senior Drew Thompson, Cooper was able to generate far more production, rushing for 1311 yards (8.5 YPC) and 17 TDs. Even though he didn’t carry a full workload, Cooper was so effective with the reps he did receive, showcasing a perfect mix of power, speed, and a low center of gravity to consistently run over defenders while also utilizing his 4.5 40 yard speed to dash past defenders, making him the ultimate weapon in the backfield. Cooper shall remain to be the centerpiece of the Rams’ offense as they look to reclaim their throne in the 5A conference.