You have an interesting definition of a "Dark Horse." Merriam Webster says:
1a : a usually little known contender (such as a racehorse) that makes an unexpectedly good showing
b : an entrant in a contest that is judged unlikely to succeed
I hardly think a defending state champion, Prairie Ridge, who went 14-0 would meet the definition of a dark horse. CLS perhaps.
Some schools may not want to participate in the Prep Bowl Playoffs.
Ignatius has made the state playoffs for the last 3 years but lost the first game each year. In 2017 they chose to play in Prep Bowl Playoffs. Ignatius won 3 games and lost 1. In 2016 they played in 1 Prep Bowl playoff game and in 2015 they played in 2 Prep Bowl playoff games. 7 Prep Bowl games and 3 State Playoff games over the last three years has given many players an extra season of play. And more film for college coaches to view.
St Iggy would need to make an "unexpectedly good showing", they haven't shown any reason to think they would or could. How about this, win A playoff game, then ask about their "Dark Horse" status.
Why PR's status a a possible "Dark Horse", everyone who's seen them play know they are due a major drop off due to losing Superman and his supporting cast. They have a JR qb and Jr halfback replacing Evans and Gilbranson, their best lineman is no longer Jenkin, but another junior. They will have more underclassmen starting than seniors...I'd say they
fit the unlikely to succeed., but could still surprise....hence...possible dark horse.
making the state playoffs 3 years in a row is quite an accomplishment. But, good programs don't just have goals just to make it.
And, please, don't tell me the Prep Bowl playoffs are anything other than post season exhibitions. I know Providence, Rice, Montini all have declined participation and I've seen CCL teams with 2-3 wins play in the "prep playoffs". It's good to get the extra practice in, but leave it at that.
For proof, I'll bet you Rice goes farther in the state playoffs this year in 8A after not playing in prep bowl last year than iggy does this year with their prep bowl experience.