2013 Pigskin Preview by Bugle, Sentinel & Enterprise Newspapers

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

SPC PREVIEW In what has typically been a balanced conference since its inception in 2006, the Southwest P r a i r i e Conference has been dominated by Oswego the past two years. The Panthers have gone undefeated in conference play the past two years and last year the only single digit game was against Plainfield North in the playoffs. Oswego has a sophomore quarterback in Steven Frank who played some last year and has high expectations. Plainfield North has been a fairly consistent competitor in recent years and this year may be no different. While the Tigers are losing a great deal of talent, especially quarterback Kurt Palandech, they seem to reload every year with talented athletes and strong line play. Plainfield Central is in a similar boat to its district rival to the north. The Wildcats have to replace several key players, but the good news is that Mike Smiley returns at quarterback as the Wildcats hope to improve on their four conference wins of a year ago. Minooka was over .500 last year in the conference despite losing both of its nonconference games. With Morris and Providence again on the nonconference slate, another 4-3 SPC season might not be good enough for the playoffs. Plainfield South returns one of the state’s top recruits in linebacker Clifton Garrett. He won’t be alone on the defensive end and it will likely be that side of the ball that will have to lead the team early with a relatively new quarterback and skill players. The Cougars have won at least three conference games since the

SPC’s inception and have a good chance to do so again. Oswego East has been a team that has underachieved in recent years.The Wolves are still looking for their first playoff appearance, despite facing a weak nonconference schedule. They will again have a good chance to go 2-0 in their nonconference schedule, but will need to win three, probably four SPC games to make the playoffs. Plainfield East is also looking for its first playoff berth. The Bengals have had some solid skill position players, but have struggled at times on the line of scrimmage. Romeoville will have one of, if not the most experienced teams in the conference this year. However, the Spartans have a lot of ground to make up after a winless season last year.

Taylor’s Take 1. Oswego: After a dominating performance last year, it is hard to pick anyone else here, although I’d like to see one of our Voyager Media teams do so. The Panthers have some holes to fill, but so do all the teams at the top of the conference from last year. 2. Plainfield South: The Cougars aren’t as explosive offensively as they have been in recent years, but the defense should be improved and they have as good a chance as anyone to land in this spot. 3. Plainfield North: The Tigers have a tough SPC schedule with four road games, including trips to Minooka and Plainfield South. However, they are becoming a team that reloads, and even though they lose a bunch of talent, they should remain competitive. 4. Minooka: The Indians and Tigers could go either way at this spot. Actually, I feel 2-4 is very much up for grab between these

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Plainfield South’s Clifton Garrett (3) is one of the top recruits in the state.

three teams. If the Indians can find more consistency on offense, they could be dangerous. 5. Romeoville: I’m going to go gutsy on this pick. After being winless last year, I think the Spartans are a much-improved team with the best skill players among any of the bottom four teams, which is why I have them here. 6. Plainfield Central: It won’t be easy this year for the Wildcats. They have capabilities to surprise me, but will need a lot of players to step up. 7. Plainfield East: The Bengals seem to be getting more competitive in conference, but

2012 Standings TEAM Oswego Plainfield N. Plainfield C. Minooka Plainfield S. Plainfield E. Oswego E. Romeoville

Conference

WON LOST 7 6 4 4 3 2 2 0

0 1 3 3 4 5 5 7

until they make a move up the standings I will keep them here. 8. Oswego East: Every year is supposed to be the year the Wolves break through. Maybe

Overall

WON 9 7 6 4 4 2 4 2

LOST 2 3 4 5 5 7 5 7

Points

FOR

420 307 245 191 179 123 231 108

AGAINST 187 189 222 168 244 235 269 362

if they get better tested in the nonconference season, they would be better prepared for the SPC. staylor@enterprisepublications.com

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

MINOOKA INDIANS OFFENSE

In his second year at the helm, Minooka coach Paul Forsyth will look to take his aerial attack back to the Southwest Prairie Conference. The Indians tried to be a pass-first team a year ago, but were forced back into a run-orientated team at the end of the year to salvage a 4-5 season. They lose multi-sport athletes Joe Carnagio, quarterback, and wide receiver/running back Max Brozovich. They will return other multisport athletes such as wrestler and running back Nathan Gunn, who is coming off a season where he rushed for more than 500 yards a year ago. Senior Shane Briscoe figures to be at the helm at quarterback after having some success in starts last year, although he is in a battle with classmate Jake Czerniakowski

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Morris, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 14-6) Sept. 6 – Providence, 7 p.m. (Lost 28-10) Sept. 13 – @ Oswego, 7 p.m. (Lost 42-0) Sept. 20 – @ Plainfield C., 7 p.m. (Won 45-14) Sept. 27 – Plainfield East, 7 p.m. (Won 29-6) Oct. 4 – Plainfield South, 7 p.m. (Lost 14-10) Oct. 11 – @ Oswego East, 7 p.m. (Won 31-7) Oct. 18 – Plainfield North, 7 p.m. (Lost 28-20) Oct. 25 – Romeoville, 7 p.m. (Won 40-15)

for the job. If not throwing passes,

Czerniakowski will be catching them at a receiver position. The Indians also lost offensive lineman Blake King from last season to Northwestern University, but they do return another topranked lineman in 6-foot-4-inch, 295 pound tackle Paul Stawarz. Stawarz broke a bone in his foot in the spring, but has been cleared to play and should not miss any time.

DEFENSE Minooka returns its defensive MVP from a year ago in senior inside linebacker Mitch Vogrin. Vogrin was not only a leader by example on the Minooka defense, but a vocal leader as well. He will be joined by 6-6, 220 pound senior defensive end Mark Geers. In the defensive backfield, the Indians will rely on experienced safety Nate Kijowski.

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Nate Gunn is back to lead the Minooka run game.

OVERALL Again this season, the Indians did not make anything easy on themselves,as they open the season with a pair of state powerhouses. Minooka will host longtime rival Morris in week one and travel to Providence Catholic in week two. As if that was not difficult enough, the Indians open league play in

week three with Oswego, the champions of the SPC a year ago and the team projected by many to repeat its title. That schedule will help have the Indians ready for the playoffs if they can get there. They are just hoping that a tough schedule early won’t keep them out like it did a year ago. -Compiled by Mark Gregory

PLAINFIELD CENTRAL WILDCATS OFFENSE

Mike Smiles took over at quarterback during the season last year and helped the Wildcats make the playoffs. He will be expected to carry a bigger load this year as a senior with his top three running backs and top receiver gone from last year. Gregory Cybulski (6-feet-8inches, 320-pounds) is expected to lead the offensive line. The Wildcats typically use multiple formations on offense as coach John Jackson uses both the double wing and spread.

DEFENSE

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Plainfield Central’s Mike Smiles is back to lead the Wildcat offense.

It is hard to have a bigger loss from last year than Central has in Bryce Douglas. Douglas was hard to move from his nose tackle position, giving an experienced linebacking core more space to make tackles. Those linebackers are gone

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Marmion, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – @ St. Charles North, 7 p.m. (Won 14-7) Sept. 13 – @ Romeoville, 7 p.m. (Won 42-0) Sept. 20 – Minooka, 7 p.m. (Lost 45-14) Sept. 27 – @ Plainfield North, 7 p.m. (Lost 28-7) Oct. 4 – Oswego East, 7 p.m. (Won 42-40) Oct. 11 – @ Plainfield South, 7 p.m. (Won 21-6) Oct. 18 – Plainfield East, 7 p.m. (Won 28-0) Oct. 25 – Oswego, 7 p.m. (Lost 42-13)

as well giving the Wildcats an inexperienced front seven

overall. A pair of junior defensive backs (Roger Thigpen and Akwasi Aikins) are expected to lead the defense.

OVERALL Teams lose key players every year, but not many teams lost as much overall as the Wildcats did. However, they do have their quarterback back, which is always a big plus. The Wildcats are coming off of back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 2007-2008 and are looking for their first back-toback playoff appearances since then. Both of their nonconference games are on the road this year as the travel to Marmion and St. Charles North. They started the season 3-0 last year before finishing 6-4 and may need another fast start to make another playoff trip this year. -Compiled by Scott Taylor

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

PLAINFIELD EAST BENGALS OFFENSE

Plainfield East will be breaking in a new quarterback with a familiar name this year as junior Cole Kotopka will be replacing his brother Jake. Cullen Rompa (450 total yards) returns in the backfield for his senior year and will be joined by junior Jake Mayon. Mozell Hargrays (19 catches, 256 yards) and Shederick Majors are a pair of senior receivers with some varsity experience. The offensive line will have to replace Northwestern recruit Tyler Lancaster. East coach Mike Romeli feels that the Bengals will have to utilize their speed and get the ball on the outside.

DEFENSE The defensive line will have to replace Lancaster as well and will be led by junior Daniel Jackson. Rompa (74 tackles, 4 sacks) and fellow senior Jovani Urbieta will lead the linebacker

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Metea Valley, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 24-22) Sept. 6 – @ West Aurora, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – @ Oswego East, 7 p.m. (Won 33-6) Sept. 20 – Plainfield North, 7 p.m. (Lost 28-14) Sept. 27 – @ Minooka, 7 p.m. (Lost 29-6) Oct. 4 – @ Oswego, 7 p.m. (Lost 42-7) Oct. 11 – Romeoville, 7 p.m. (Won 27-14) Oct. 18 – @ Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. (Lost 28-0) Oct. 25 – Plainfield South, 7 p.m. (Lost 34-0)

corps and Jordan Dobyne will anchor the secondary from the free safety position. “We are an undersized group that will look to utilize our speed

to cause turnovers,” Romeli stated.

OVERALL Plainfield East is coming off a 2-7 season, with a 2-5 mark in the Southwest Prairie Conference. The Bengals are still looking for their first playoff appearance. That goal seems to be more in reach this year as in week two they replace Batavia (9-1 last year) with West Aurora (3-6). They will again open the season with Metea Valley, which they lost to 24-22 last year on the road. They are 1-2 against the Mustangs. “We need our senior group to rise to the top,” Romeli said. “We have a group of kids who are hungry and willing to work hard and do what is necessary to achieve success. We have a few kids with varsity experience and a group of juniors who experienced winning on the lower levels.” -Compiled by Scott Taylor

PLAINFIELD NORTH TIGERS OFFENSE

The Tigers will have to replace quarterback Kurt Palandech, running back Jay Roberts and several members of their offensive line from last year. Sophomore J.D. Ekowa has the edge in the quarterback battle over Ben Tegtmeyer and Jared Samms. Junior Quintin Hoosman and senior Robert Baker will look to replace Roberts in the backfield. Chris Mack, Jack O’Connor, Kendall Battle and Samms are competing for wide receiver spots. Peter Krusiewicz got some playing time last year on the offensive line. Jack Kramer and Brian Smith are also competing for offensive line spots, among others. The Tigers are again expected to use multiple formations. “We have to utilize our talent and the guys we have out there,” North coach Tim Kane said. Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

The Plainfield North defense hopes to be strong again in 2013.

DEFENSE The defense also lost some

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Plainfield East will have to replace Northwestern’s Tyler Lancaster on the line of scrimmage this year.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Ridgewood, 7 p.m. (Won 28-16) Sept. 7 – @ Niles North, 1 p.m. (Won 50-0) Sept. 12 – @ Maine East, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 20 – Glenbrook North, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 28 – Evanston, 1 p.m. (Lost 49-0) Oct. 5 – @ Waukegan, 1:30 p.m. (Lost 56-13) Oct. 11 – Maine South, 7 p.m. (Lost 51-14) Oct. 18 – @ New Trier, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 48-6) Oct. 25 – @ Glenbrook South, 7:30 p.m. (Won 13-7)

key members, but is more experienced than the offense heading into the season. Deshawn Tandy, Kramer, Smith, Chris Bruns and Alejandro Robles all got playing time on the defensive side of the ball last year. O’Connor, Collin

Cassady and Martin Mcgrail are also back. Several will be in different positions this year.

OVERALL Plainfield North has made the playoffs three of its past four years, but is still looking for that first playoff win. “Each year the senior class wants to do something it hasn’t done before,” Kane said. “We haven’t won a playoff game, so it would be nice for us to get into the playoffs and take that step. We are going to be pretty young, especially on the offensive side of the ball, so we’re going to have to take care of the ball.” A nonconference loss in each of the Tigers’ last two playoff appearances may have been the difference between a home and road playoff game. This year they play a pair of new foes in Westinghouse and Pekin. “We have to play well in those non-conference games and be ready to go when we go into conference,” Kane stated. -Compiled by Scott Taylor

PLAINFIELD SOUTH COUGARS OFFENSE

Senior Kody Voda (10-28, 86 yards) moves from wide receiver to quarterback this year in the Cougars’ spread offense. He will be replacing Ricky Luna. Voda will be joined in the backfield by seniors Josh Harris (45-391, 3 TDs, who was battling injury last year, and Anthony Woods. Chris Keske and Brandon Johnson are senior wideouts and Richie Kelly will anchor the offensive line. South coach Ken Bublitz expects more consistency with the senior-led group.

DEFENSE

Scott Taylor/Enterprise Staff

Kody Voda has moved to the quarterback position this year for Plainfield South.

The Cougars are led by ESPN’s No. 59 ranked recruit the country, linebacker Clifton Garrett, who had 107 tackles last year, 10.5 for loss. He is being recruited by Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi and LSU, among others. He will be joined by linebackers Mason Matesevic (41 tackles) and Danny Saracco. Seniors Zack Tuzak and Joe Ruske will man

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Lemont, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – St. Francis, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – Plainfield North, 7 p.m. (Lost 35-19 ) Sept. 20 – @ Oswego East, 7 p.m. (Lost 32-27) Sept. 27 – Romeoville, 7 p.m. (Won 35-34) Oct. 4 – @ Minooka, 7 p.m. (Won 14-10) Oct. 11 – Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. (Lost 21-6) Oct. 18 – @ Oswego, 7 p.m. (Lost 52-7) Oct. 25 – @ Plainfield East, 7 p.m. (Won 34-0)

the defensive backfield, while J.C. Godin is on the defensive line. Bublitz expects to have better production and more turnovers from a defense that allowed 244 points last year.

OVERALL Plainfield South made backto-back playoff appearances in 2010 and 2011 after it moved to the spread offense. However, it finished 4-5 last year, including 3-4 in the Southwest Prairie Conference. There will be a lot of eyes on the Cougars this year with Garrett, who is the highest-ranked recruit in Plainfield football history. The good news with the schedule is they lose Bolingbrook, but the bad news is that the Raiders were replaced by another perennial playoff team in Lemont. The Cougars also get Wheaton St. Francis in the nonconference slate, an upgrade from Joliet West in recent years. With a balanced SPC race, it will be good for the Cougars to pick up at least one win in those two games. “The conference could be a wide-open affair,” Bublitz said. “The teams that have their playmakers make plays and is able to stay healthy will be successful.” -Compiled by Scott Taylor

ROMEOVILLE SPARTANS OFFENSE

Injuries to the varsity quarterbacks last season may have had an impact on Romeoville’s 0-9 season a year ago and while that was disappointin, those injuries also forced then-sophomore Kelvin Jones to get varsity experience. That will help him as he takes over the reigns of the Spartans this season. Senior running back Miguel Ford will carry the ball a lot for Romeoville, as will power back Gil Whitaker. When the Spartans go to the air, Jones will have a huge target to look for in 6-foot, 4-inch, 230 pound tight end Mickey Crnkovich. Kuna calls him a prototypical tight end, saying he is as good of a blocker as a receiver. The Spartans will have five solid receiver options, led by Chuck Hunter, who when not catching passes, he will defend them as defensive back.

DEFENSE The defense all starts up front with Division-I recruit Anthony

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Hinsdale South, 7 p.m. (Lost 39-0) Sept. 6 – @ Bolingbrook, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 46-10) Sept. 13 – Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. (Lost 42-0) Sept. 20 – Oswego, 7 p.m. (Lost 41-0) Sept. 27 – @ Plainfield South, 7 p.m. (Lost 35-34) Oct. 4 – Plainfield North, 7 p.m. (Lost 55-23) Oct. 11 – @ Plainfield East, 7 p.m. (Lost 27-14) Oct. 18 – Oswego East, 7 p.m. (Lost 37-12) Oct. 25 – Minooka, 7 p.m. (Lost 40-15)

Love at defensive end. The senior has turned heads and earned offers in the offseason, now it is his turn to shine. Love will be joined on the line by Caleb Purham, a converted linebacker. At the linebacker position, Whitaker will lead the pack.

The defensive backfield will also be littered with two-way players, as Ford, Hunter and receiver/backup quarterback Mark Hammond as well as DLante Dawson.

OVERALL While it may look like it is a long way from an 0-9 season to the playoffs, that is not so much the case in the Southwest Prairie Conference. With the usual parity in the SPC, it looks like every team in the league will be fighting for the No. 2 spot behind Oswego. “We knew we were going to have a lot of guys back from last season to this season,” Kuna said. It was a matter of how they got themselves ready for this season and how they prepared and they did that. “They worked at it and got bigger and faster and stronger and put themselves in a good position. Now we have to go out and face another team and see how we compete in someone wearing a jersey other than blue and orange and white.” - Compiled by Mark Gregory

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Miguel Ford and the Spartans will look to turn around an 0-9 season.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

SWSC BLUE PREVIEW It appears every season as if the S o u t h We s t Suburban C o n fe re n c e Blue Division is claimed by either Bolingbrook or LincolnWay East and that looks to be the case again this year. Both teams will look different on offense, each losing a star quarterback to one Land of Lincoln Big Ten school, as Bolingbrook’s Aaron Bailey is at Illinois and the Griffins’ Tommy Fuessel to Northwestern. Lincoln-Way East will again reload as it always does and be a contender for the SWSC Blue crown and another deep run in the post season. Bolingbrook knows a little something about reloading itself and is ready to do just that. With Bailey being plagued by injury a year ago, Quincy Woods got time at the quarterback position and while he may not resemble Bailey in size and stature, Woods proved he can get the job done on the field. He will be joined by senior running back Jaden Huff, who is primed for a big season. Defensively the Raiders are as good as always and feature defensive end Micah DewTredway, linebacker Tuf Borland

and the best player in the league, defensive back Parrker Westphal. After the top two teams, the next few are a crap shoot. Homewood-Floosmoor has crept closer to the top two in the league over the last few years, but has a tough run to start the season, with Simeon and Stevenson before getting into conference play. Seniors Bobby Krop (running back) and Seen Leland (quarterback) return at skill positions for Sandburg, but will they be enough to compete with the big dogs? Joliet West is a team that every year has people waiting for a breakout season that has yet to arrive. Senior quarterback Anthony DiNardo is back after an injury last season, but will he be able to stay healthy again and if he can, is that enough to earn the Tigers’ first winning season under coach Jason Aubrey. Lockport is a team searching for an identity, as the one-time state power fell on hard times as of late, posting a 1-8 record a season ago. The Porters return several key offensive pieces in hopes to take steps back to their winning ways. Unlike Lockport, Joliet Central has an identity, but it is one it is desperate to shake, as the Steelmen have yet to win a game since the Joliet split in

2012 Standings TEAM

Conference

WON LOST

Lincoln-Way E. 7 Bolingbrook 5 Homewood-F 5 Sandburg 5 Lincoln-Way C. 3 Joliet West 2 Lockport 1 Joliet Central 0

0 2 2 2 4 5 6 7

Overall

WON

LOST

13 8 7 7 4 3 1 0

1 3 3 3 5 6 8 9

Points

FOR

474 393 342 241 154 161 69 49

AGAINST 148 185 191 150 166 231 277 314

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Jacob Huff and Bolingbrook seek revenge on Lincoln-Way East this year.

2010. Central has been getting better every season thus far and a win or two seems to be right around the corner. While it has been a while since Stagg has been in the big school side of the conference, first year head coach Michael Fahey was the defensive coordinator when they last were and is familiar with the teams. Unfortunately, that means he knows how hard his job will be to rebuild a team that posted three wins total the last two years.

MARK’S PICKS 1. Bolingbrook: The Raiders defense is just too much for a

rebuilding Lincoln-Way East to contend with this season. 2. Lincoln-Way East: Finishing second is no slouch in this league, as it usually comes with only one conference loss. 3. Homewood-Flossmoor: The Vikings have slowly pulled away from Sandburg as the No. 3 team in the SWSC Blue, but have yet to reach the level of the top two teams. 4. Sandburg: They are ahead of the bottom half of the league at least for now. Only time will tell if the Eagles move close to H-F or get caught by the teams below them. 5. Lockport: This spot is a toss-up between the Porters and Joliet West, but pride and tradition are on the side of

Lockport. 6. Joliet West: The have the talent to be in the top five, or even four, but I drank the Kool-Aid the last few years and was let down. While I won’t be surprised with a winning season, the Tigers have to earn me back. 7. Joliet Central: The Steelmen will get at least one win this season and I’m going to go on a limb and say two. While I’m looking at Stagg for one win, I think the Steelmen will pull off one other upset. 8. Stagg: Welcome to the Jungle Chargers. This side of the SWSC is a little different than you are used to. mark@buglenewspapers.com

BOLINGBROOK RAIDERS

OFFENSE

For the first time in three seasons, the Raiders will go to battle without Aaron Bailey at quarterback. Sure, junior Quincy Woods may not look like Bailey under center, but he will still be a productive weapon under center. Woods was able to get reps last season when Bailey was out with injury and got better every game. Woods has a productive arm and can run the football.As far as running the ball, Bolingbrook will return senior tailback Jaden Huff. The senior is being recruited by several schools, including Northern Illinois, Western Michigan and Western Illinois. Bolingbrook also returns the bulk of an offensive line in front of Woods and Huff that were able to gain experience on the varsity level a year ago.

DEFENSE

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Quincy Woods is taking over for Aaron Bailey at quarterback for Bolingbrook.

The defense is usually the anchor of the Bolingbrook team, and that looks to be the case again. The Raiders return All-State caliber senior defensive back Parrker Westphal. Westphal has offers on

JOLIET CENTRAL STEELMEN OFFENSE

The Steelmen lost the likes of Carlos Curry and Malik Neal, players that had been around the program since it resplit with Joliet West in 2010.They will have to replace those familiar faces as they look to grab their elusive first win. It will all start up front for Brett Boyter’s team with Danny McGee and Max Fischer anchoring the line and also acting as team leaders. Wingback Austin Adams, who Boyter says is one of the toughest players he has ever coached, will carry the football for Central, as will Sylvester Bellamy, and the other wing Tre Neal, who will play both sides of the ball. Landriel Hart returns to play quarterback and is ready to go despite tearing an ACL against Joliet West last season. “He will be the wild card,” Boyter said.“He was ready to go in April or May, but the doctors didn’t clear him until a few weeks ago. He was not on that Derrick Rose rehab circuit. He is everything

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Rich Central, 7 p.m. (Lost 24-14) Sept. 7 – Reavis, 1 p.m. (Lost 7-6) Sept. 13 – @ Bolingbrook, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 54-6) Sept. 21 – H-F, 1 p.m. (Lost 49-0) Sept. 27 – @ Sandburg, 7:15 p.m. (Lost 51-6) Oct. 5 – Stagg, 1 p.m. (Did not play) Oct. 12 – Lockport, 1 p.m. (Lost 22-14) Oct. 19 – @ Joliet West, 1 p.m. (Lost 21-3) Oct. 26 – Lincoln-Way East, 1 p.m. (Lost 49-0)

you want in a quarterback. He has good speed, he is patient with his reads and throws a good ball.” When the Steelmen do go to the air, senior Luiz Zepeda will bring a veteran presence to the receivers.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Hinsdale C., 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – Romeoville, 7:30 p.m. (Won 46-10) Sept. 13 – Joliet Central, 7:30 p.m. (Won 54-6 ) Sept. 20 – @ Stagg 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 27 – Joliet West, 7:30 p.m. (Won 44-12) Oct. 4 – Lockport, 7:30 p.m. (Won 34-10) Oct. 11 – @ H-F, 7:30 p.m. (Won 45-28) Oct. 18 – Lincoln-Way East, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 42-19) Oct. 25 – @ Sandburg, 7:15 p.m. (Lost 13-6; won 39-7 in playoffs)

the table from nearly two dozen college teams, including most of the Big Ten, Florida and Notre Dame. He will be joined by junior defensive end Micah Dew-Tredway and sophomore linebacker Tuf Borland, who started as a freshman last year.Also returning with varsity experience are junior twins Julian and Jacob Huff. Julian is a returning

linebacker, while Jacob will be at defensive back.

OVERALL In looking at the Raiders this season, they will again compete with Lincoln-Way East for a SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue Division crown. While that is a good step in the right direction, Bolingbrook wants to erase last year’s second-round loss to Neuqua Valley. It was the Raiders’ third second-round exit in six seasons, sandwiched around their Class 8A state title in 2011. Bolingbrook will again face Valley View School District rival Romeoville in week 2. That game starts a string of five straight games against opponents with losing records from a year ago, before ending the campaign with last season’s winning programs Homewood-Flossmoor, LincolnWay East and Sandburg. “Our first goal is always to get our five wins and qualify for the playoffs,” Bolingbrook coach John Ivlow said. “The way the schedule works is great, we can get our five and qualify for the playoffs before those three and then they won’t matter as much.” - Compiled by Mark Gregory

DEFENSE

Like most defenses do, Joliet Central’s defense will start with middle linebacker Deontae Brown. He will be joined there by Joliet West transfer Travionte Gooch and junior Matt Key. Boyter said one of the most improved players since last year is cornerback Vincent Lee.

OVERALL Boyter and the Steelmen are ready to win. They know they have taken steps in the right direction over the past couple of seasons, but are now ready for the payout. “They believe they can win and it is now time to get those wins,” Boyter said. “This is that time of season when everyone believes we can do something and we have to go out and get a good start to the season.” Central again has Rich Central and Reavis on its non-conference schedule, both teams which the competed with a year ago. -Compiled by Mark Gregory

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Sylvester Bellamy is back to as Joliet Central will look to get their first win since the resplit this season.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

JOLIET WEST TIGERS OFFENSE

From the start the Joliet West offense should be improved with the return of Anthony DiNardo at quarterback.The senior dislocated his throwing shoulder last year in the third week of the season and missed the entire year. DiNardo’s skill set of excelling at the mid-range passing game suits coach Jason Aubrey’s spread offense. The Tigers have wide receivers Ronald Banner and Ethan Bohanek back as well as multi-dimensional running back Jordan Brown. The senior saw significant playing time a year ago, carrying the ball 71 times for nearly 520 yards and six touchdowns. He also caught 11 passes for more than 230 yards and a pair of scores. Returning offensive lineman Niko Messino and Scott Blankenship will anchor a line that will focus on making room for Brown and keeping DiNardo upright and uninjured.

DEFENSE The Tigers return only three defenders from a team that

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Thornridge, 7:30 p.m. (Won 48-0) Sept. 7 – King, 1 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – @ H-F, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 49-8) Sept. 21 – Sandburg, 12 p.m. (Lost 30-3) Sept. 27 – @ Bolingbrook, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 44-12) Oct. 5 – Lincoln-Way East, 1 p.m. (Lost 42-6) Oct. 11 – @ Stagg, 7:15 p.m. (Did not play) Oct. 19 – Joliet Central, 1 p.m. (Won 21-3) Oct. 26 – Lockport, 1 p.m. (Won 28-7)

allowed 26 points per game a year ago. Anchoring that defense will be a pair of defensive ends in Dominic Galvin and Billy Myers. The defense, like all defenses in the SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue Division, will

have its work cut out for it with the likes of Bolingbrook, Lincoln-Way East and Homewood-Flossmoor on the schedule.

OVERALL The Tigers went 3-6 a year ago, which was their best record since resplitting with Central. Of those three wins, however, the teams West beat combined for only one total victory. Aubrey said the goal for the Tigers is to reach the IHSA state playoffs, a place Joliet football has not been in a long time. To do so, the Tigers would need a minimum of five, if not six wins. The Tigers replace a pair of losses from last season, as they remove Plainfield South from the schedule and add Chicago King, who was 6-3 a year ago out of the Chicago Public League Land of Lincoln Division. West also eliminated Lincoln-Way Central, a team who also defeated the Tigers last year. The Knights swapped divisions within the SWSC with Stagg, who was 2-6 a year ago and has posted only three combined wins in the past two seasons. -Compiled by Mark Gregory

LOCKPORT PORTERS

OFFENSE

After a season when the Porters found it difficult to get in the end zone, they will look to young, but big offensive line to help protect returning quarterback Ryan Dalton. Dalton beat out Jeremy Quade, who will start at safety, and Billy Krawczyk, both of whom could see some action at quarterback. Whoever is under center will most likely be targeting 6-2, 175 pound senior receiver Brendan Reed. “Brendan has really stepped it up for us,” said Lockport coach Don McKillip. “He wants to play at the next level and you can see that in him.” Up front will be Marco Saric and Jack Bak along with Matt Baran,who shifts from tight end to offensive guard. The Porters are looking for success from sophomore right tackle Matt Chmielewski.

DEFENSE Mark Gregory/Bugle staff

Lockport is looking for a bounce-back season.

The Porters have four defenders back that saw significant time a year ago. Defensive end Justin Krzeczski

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Ronald Banner is back at receiver for Joliet West.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Downers North, 7 p.m. (Lost 27-7) Sept. 6 – @ Lake Park, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – Sandburg, 7 p.m. (Lost 34-14 ) Sept. 20 – @ Lincoln-Way East 7:30 p.m. (Lost 35-0) Sept. 27 – Stagg, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Oct. 4 – @ Bolingbrook, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 34-10) Oct. 12 – @ Joliet Central, 1 p.m. (Won 22-14) Oct. 18 – H-F, 7 p.m. (Lost 49-7) Oct. 26 – @ Joliet West, 1 p.m. (Lost 28-7)

will lead the way, both on the field and in the weight room. He will be joined by safety Quade, along with linebacker Tommy Bochenek. Sophomore Mohammad Atiq will see time at linebacker.

Tyler Johnson, who was a fullback a year ago, will see time at linebacker this season. Sophomore Deiondre Taylor will start at cornerback and will see time as a running back as well.

OVERALL A year ago, the Porters went 1-8, their worst record in nearly a decade. “It is a new year and we have a lot of respect to earn back from some people and that is our goal – to win back the respect this program deserves,” McKillip said. That will start when the Porters face Downers Grove North, who after suffering their own lean years win-wise broke out a year ago. Lockport will then face Lake Park, a new opponent on the Porters’ schedule and a new team to the vaunted DuPage Valley Conference. The Porters then open SWSC season with Sandburg. “I look at those first three games to be big games,” McKillip said.“We have nice, strong opponents and we look to compete with them.” -Compiled by Mark Gregory

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

ESCC PREVIEW Last season, six teams from the East S u b u r b a n C a t h o l i c Conference made the post season and with the returning talent, that trend looks to continue. Gone are some of the big names, but other players are looking to replace them with breakout seasons of their own. A year ago, the story in the ESCC was Benet Academy, who went from 1-8 in 2011 to 10-2 in last season. A majority of that had to do with the emergence of 6-6, 180 pound quarterback Jack Beneventi. A junior now, Beneventi returns with running back Porter Ontko. If the Redwings can replace the loss of their 2012 senior-dominated receiving corp, they can be in the hunt again.

2012 Standings TEAM

Conference

WON LOST

Benet 5 Marist 5 St. Patrick 4 Joliet Catholic 3 Notre Dame 3 Carmel 3 St. Viator 2 Nazareth 2 Marian 0

1 1 2 3 3 3 4 4 6

Second in the ESCC a year ago was Marist, who returns senior quarterback Jack Donegan and receivers Nic Weishar, who is verbally committed to the University of Notre Dame, and junior Flynn Nagel. Senior running back Peter Andreotti also returns. St. Patrick came up and grabbed third a year ago and return junior QB Zach Fuller with a year of varsity experience under his belt this season. Like it always does, Joliet Catholic Academy will again

Overall

WON

LOST

11 8 7 8 7 3 5 5 1

2 2 4 5 5 6 5 4 8

Points

FOR

420 305 306 451 321 148 271 249 133

AGAINST 173 227 307 337 255 185 245 180 272

be in the mix for an ESCC, if not a state, title. The Hillmen lose Ty Isaac (USC) from last year’s team, but also lose the hoopla surrounding one of the nation’s top recruits. JCA is looking to get back to work and they have blue collar horses to do it in the form of players like running back Mike Ivlow, offensive lineman J.B. Butler and linebacker Zach Rezin. Niles Notre Dame was a team heavily in the mix last year and could easily be this year. With the loss of Isaac at JCA, the Dons’ senior running

back Chris James could easily take the spot as the league’s top back. Defensively, Notre Dame returns seven players, including linebackers Tom Sora and Dan Proano. Carmel looks to bounce back this year and could do it behind returning running back Jake Kane. Senior quarterback Jake Bartels and senior receiver Doug DiFusco are back to lead Nazareth this season. Brandon New is in his second year at St. Viator and will look to keep building the program. Despite being in his second year on the job, he is not the less tenured in the ESCC, as Marian Catholic brings in Jerry Verde to try and turn the program around.

MARK’S TAKE 1. Joliet Catholic: A new defensive coordinator and an offensive getting back to their lunch-pail, hard running roots will breed success. 2. Benet Academy:

Beneventi is too good not to get passes into hands of someone. As long as he stays healthy, the Redwings are a team to beat. 3. Marist: Too much fire power back not to contend for an ESCC crown 4. Notre Dame: Who can stop Chris James? Not many teams, that is why the Dons will again make the playoffs. 5. St. Patrick: A solid season last year will give the players confidence against tough opponents this year. 6. Carmel: Carmel will take a step back in the right direction. 7. Nazareth: If the ball bounces their way, the Roadrunners could find themselves challenging for a top-five spot. 8. St. Viator: Rebuilding programs take time in a conference this challenging. 9. Marian Catholic: This year will be a learning season with a new head coach. mark@buglenewspapers.com

BENET REDWINGS OFFENSE

All eyes are on Jack Beneventi, who threw for over 2,300 yards and 20 touchdowns, and completed around 60 percent of his passes in his first varsity season as a sophomore.He won’t have the graduated Jack Euritt to throw to, but the Redwings still have a stable of capable offensive weapons—tight endwideout Nick Surges, running backs Porter Ontko and Nick McTarnaghan, and wideouts Ryan Parks, Joe Weidenbach and Patrick Peterson (all seniors). The offensive line, headed by returning senior starters Jack Mitchell, Sean O’Mara and Tommy Burke should keep Beneventi well-protected. Junior Tyler Takahashi also is taking snaps with the offensive line.

DEFENSE Benet should be fine defensively, too. Mitchell and Burke will be the tackles, senior Steve Hubona is a returning starter, and Surges

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Downers South, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – South Elgin, 7:30 p.m. (Won 35-21) Sept. 13 – St. Patrick, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 17-16 ) Sept. 20 – @ Crete-Monee, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 27 – @ Marian, 7:30 p.m. (Won 44-6) Oct. 4 – St. Viator, 7:30 p.m. (Won 17-0) Oct. 12 – @ Nazareth, 1:30 p.m. (Won 49-0) Oct. 18 – @ Marist, 7:30 p.m. (Won 34-24) Oct. 25 – JCA, 7:30 p.m. (Won 31-21)

will see action as an end. Junior Sean O’Connor and sophomore Trent Kramer also are being worked into the D-line mix. The secondary features Parks and Dave Donnantuono at the corners, and Ontko and

Weidenbach at the safety positions (all are seniors). Leading the way at linebacker are seniors Sean Byrne and Jason Blohm.

OVERALL Following a Week 3 loss, the Redwings (11-2) went on their memorable run, rattling off nine straight victories before falling in the Class 6A semifinals. Now that Benet is a formidable team, head coach Pat New isn’t concerned about complacency setting in, but it’s something he’s aware of. “When you are playing well and have had some success, you’ve got to fight complacency,” he said. “I don’t think these guys are complacent. I always challenge them a lot.” Needless to say, Beneventi is already getting looks from major college programs. “He’s improved a tremendous amount from last year,” New said. “I expect even more improvement going into his senior year.” --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Benet’s Porter Ontko will be one of the key players on both sides of the ball.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

JOLIET CATHOLIC HILLTOPPERS OFFENSE

While the Joliet Catholic Academy team may miss the star power they had the last few years in running backs Josh Ferguson (Illinois), Malin Jones (Northwestern) and most recently Ty Isaac (USC), but the Hilltoppers don’t miss the hoopla that surrounds having those blue chippers. “We don’t miss the TV cameras and cable shows and everything,” said JCA coach Dan Sharp. “It is all really good for high school football and we were glad to have those kids, but it is a distraction.” The JCA offense will be back to the blue collar, grind it out offense that made them so successful prior to the run of top recruits. They will be led in the backfield by senior Mike Ivlow, who is shifting from fullback to wingback. Ben Hart will take over at fullback, while Nick Morrison, a true double threat, will be under center. The success for the Hillmen will be that defenses must look to stop all facets of the JCA offense and can no longer key in on one guy.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Providence, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 40-34) Sept. 7 – @ St. Thomas (Minn), 1 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – St. Viator, 7:30 p.m. (Won 33-20) Sept. 21 – @ Nazareth, 1:30 p.m. (Won 34-33) Sept. 27 – Marist, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-24) Oct. 4 – St. Patrick, 7:30 p.m. (Won 49-13) Oct. 11 – @ Carmel, 7:30 p.m. (Won 31-24) Oct. 18 – Notre Dame, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 42-33) Oct. 25 – @ Benet, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 31-21)

Where JCA will win games will come in the trenches, as their offensive line will be anchored by senior JB Butler (6-2, 280 pounds). He will be joined by seniors Jalen Hansel (6-2, 306 pounds) and Justin Hunter (61, 305 pounds), junior DeAndre Ford (6-foot-4, 320 pounds) and

sophomore Tyler Witt (6-foot-2, 275 pounds).

DEFENSE New defensive coordinator Jake Jaworski will also share some of the offensive linemen up front on the defensive line as well. The Hilltoppers return senior linebackers Zach Rezin and Kevin Jensen to lead the way behind the skilled line. Sophomore linebacker Connor Krisch will join the mix, while Sharp said he looks for defensive back Danny Weis and safeties Brandon Bolek and Jackson Shanklin to help sure up the defensive backfield.

OVERALL The Hilltoppers have the ability this season to just play football and they have a lot of hard-nosed football players to do so. While the five-star recruits may not be on the roster, players like Ivlow, Butler, Hansel and Rezin are getting looks and will play at the next level. The schedule is not a friend of JCA this season, as it opens with rival Providence before traveling to Minnesota to face the Gopher

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Mike Ivlow will move from fullback to running back this season.

State’s No. 8-ranked team. After that, they will compete in one of the Illinois’ most difficult conferences, the East Suburban

Catholic Conference, which featured six teams that made the playoffs last year. - Compiled by Mark Gregory

NOTRE DAME DONS OFFENSE

Chris James, who rushed for over 2,000 yards last year, not only is the premier running back in the East Suburban Catholic Conference, but he’s one of the top backs in the state. However, the Dons are going to need contributions from others in order to lessen the load on James. Two seniors, Ryan Greene and Matt Harrity, are vying for the starting quarterback spot. Senior Tony Gonzalez will be a slot receiver; sophomores Billy Byrne and Matt Curley also figure into the mix at wideout. Senior Mike Mulcrone is the lone holdover from last season’s offensive line. He’ll be joined by junior center Frank Pavlik, a transfer from Arlington Heights, and seniors Jonah Nilson, Mike Dabrowski and Nick Heine.

DEFENSE Junior inside linebacker Tom Sora, a big hitter and impact player, is one of four three-year

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Prairie Ridge, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 7 – vs. Bartlett, 6 p.m. (Won 35-21) Sept. 13 – @ Normal, 7 p.m. (Lost 17-16 ) Sept. 20 – Marian, 7:30 p.m. (Won 22-9) Sept. 27 – @ St. Viator, 7:30 p.m. (Won 49-20) Oct. 5 – @ Nazareth, 1:30 p.m. (Lost 21-6) Oct. 11 – @ Marist, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 21-14) Oct. 18 – @ JCA, 7:30 p.m. (Won 42-33) Oct. 25 – Carmel, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 20-13) returning defensive starters— the others being senior outside linebacker Pat McDonough and senior defensive backs Tom Simon and Pat Cravens. Meanwhile, senior Dan Proano

will play inside linebacker. Up front, Notre Dame has seniors Matt Kuszynski and Quatre Coats at the tackles, and senior Chris Bargione at end.The Dons also will work two sophomores into the defensive line: tackle Marco Pehar and end Matt Szyska.

OVERALL Head coach Mike Hennessey is well aware that every one of Notre Dame’s 2013 opponents will try to contain James, who’s fielding offers from several Division I schools, including Tennessee and Pittsburgh. “We have to do some things a little bit different offensively and find different ways to get him the ball,” Hennessey said. “There’s no question with the ball in his hands that we are a lot better off.” The Dons are aiming for their eighth straight trip to the postseason. “Getting off to a good start is going to be very important for us,” Hennessey said. -Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Tom Sora is one of the leaders of the Notre Dame defense.

I-8 SMALL DIVISION PREVIEW This is the last season of the Interstate-8 Conference Small Division under the current format. Next year, Dwight will be replaced in the league by LaSalle-Peru and the schools will be able to schedule their own nonconference games rather than having crossovers with the I-8 Big School Division. Wilmington was the cream of the crop last season in the league and has been for a while. The Wildcats have posted a winning season each of the last six years and have not had a losing year since 1996 (5-5 in 2007). Wilmington looks to continue

2012 FOOTBALL Passing Matt Alviti, Maine South Jack Beneventi, Benet Mike Zebold, Downers South Craig Slowik, JCA Dan Nagode, Notre Dame Kurt Palandech, Plainfield North Ashton McCullough, Joliet West Mike McGivern, Niles West Jake Kotopka, Plainfield East Ricky Luna, Plainfield South Tommy Galanopoulos, Niles West Alex Corey, Maine East David Edwards, Downers North Mike Smiles, Plainfield Central Jake Bambule, Romeoville Joe Carnagio, Minooka Aaron Bailey, Bolingbrook

2,740 2,318 1,600 1,536 1,283 981 907 738 656 622 619 565 486 470 384 382 349

its 17-straight Class 3A playoff steak. Lisle will be a solid team this season, but with only 25 players on the roster, they must stay healthy. Senior Griffin Huba takes over at quarterback, with seniors Alan Kass and Eric Puccini at wide receiver. The Lions’ 3-4 defense will be the anchor of the team, with linebackers with Huba, Bailey Welch and Kevin Coppin leading the way. Seneca posted a 5-4 record a year ago, but like Lisle, missed the playoffs because it had too few points. Ted O’Boyle looks to build off that momentum for 2013. Westmont becomes an automatic threat with the hire of legendary coach Otto Zeman to

Rushing Chris James, Notre Dame 2,067 Ty Isaac, JCA 1,500 Jay Roberts, Plainfield North 1,238 Jordan Ellingwood, Plainfield Central 1,066 Omar Stover, Bolingbrook 1,012 Tyler Reitz, JCA 974 Porter Ontko, Benet 967 Michael Ivlow, JCA 898 Matt Alviti, Maine South 843 Brandon Salter, Downers North 802 Kyle Leto, Downers North 765 John Kosirog, Plainfield South 755 Aaron Bailey, Bolingbrook 742 Christian Lopez, Maine East 702 Kurt Palandech, Plainfield North 684 Gabe Corey, Maine East 678 Jaden Huff, Bolingbrook 657 David Edwards, Downers North 654 Miguel Ford, Romeoville 578

run the ship.The former RiversideBrookfield coach is an offensive juggernaut and has coached six All-State quarterbacks in his time on the sidelines. If senior Tim Doll is No. 7, Westmont will be going somewhere. Wins have been tough to come by for Dwight, who has not had a winning season since its playoff appearance in 2005, a first-round exit. One of the original nine members of the I-8, Dwight will head to the Sangamon Valley Conference next season. Reed-Custer and Dwight have traded wins the past couple years, each one beating the other for their lone victory of the season.

MARK’S PICKS 1. Wilmington: History says this is pretty much a sure bet as

Nick McTarnaghan, Benet Jordan Brown, Joliet West Anthony Underwood, Niles West Quincy Woods, Bolingbrook Korey Rogers, Joliet West Nate Gunn, Minooka Gino Giarratano, Plainﬁeld Central Mike Kuzebski, Maine East Jake Kotopka, Plainﬁeld East Max Brozovich, Minooka Javed Lukovic, Maine East

573 552 538 536 525 509 497 474 446 419 413

Receiving Jack Euritt, Benet Billy Hirsch, Notre Dame Chris Tschida, JCA Jordan Jones, JCA Jack Toner, Benet Chandler Piekarski, Bolingbrook Korey Rogers, Joliet West Brock Thoms, Plainﬁeld North

850 543 583 487 480 397 396 394

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2012 Standings

Overall

Conference

TEAM Wilmington Seneca Lisle Westmont Reed-Custer Dwight

Points

WON LOST

WON

LOST

5 4 3 2 1 0

9 5 5 2 1 0

3 4 4 7 8 9

0 1 2 3 4 5

FOR 401 198 199 100 90 24

AGAINST 121 149 153 248 342 326

the Wildcats build toward a long run in the Class 3A playoffs. 2. Lisle: If the Lions can stay healthy, its small roster size won’t play a huge part in the win-loss record. 3. Westmont: A two-win team a year ago, look for Otto Zeman to turn Tim Doll into a star and win a few games along the way. 4. Seneca: The Irish will get

passed up a bit this season, but not by the bottom two teams. 5. Dwight: It looks like it’s their turn in the win-loss rally with Reed-Custer. Besides, Dwight has to leave the I-8 with a win. 6. Reed-Custer: Hopefully for the Comets LaSalle-Peru is as beatable every year as Dwight.

Andrew Milhulet, Niles West Jeremiah Jordan, Niles West Max Brozovich, Minooka Luke Stovall, Minooka Porter Ontko, Benet Richard Olekanma, Downers North Ty Isaac, JCA Adrian Simbulan, Plainfield East Mozell Hargrays, Plainfield East Matt Welch, Plainfield North Mark Hammond, Romeoville John Solari, Maine South Jordan Brown, Joliet West Nick Surges, Benet Nick Johnson, Niles West

Jay Roberts, Plainfield North Tyler Reitz, JCA Matt Alviti, Maine South Jordan Ellingwood, Plainfield Central Aaron Bailey, Bolingbrook Omar Stover, Bolingbrook Jaden Huff, Bolingbrook Quincy Woods, Bolingbrook Jack Euritt, Benet Jordan Brown, Joliet West David Edwards, Downers North Gino Giarratano, Plainfield Central Korey Rogers, Joliet West Kyle Leto, Downers North Kurt Palandech, Plainfield North Jack Toner, Benet Billy Hirsch, Notre Dame Andrew Milhulet, Niles West Tommy Galanopoulos, Niles West Nick McTarnaghan, Benet Brandon Salter, Downers North

390 343 330 318 289 274 269 258 256 250 242 236 234 222 214

Total TD Chris James, Notre Dame Ty Isaac, JCA Porter Ontko, Benet Michael Ivlow, JCA

28 25 16 16

mark@buglenewspapers.com

15 14 14 12 12 12 10 10 10 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 6 6 6 6 6

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

LISLE LIONS OFFENSE

The Lions went to the air last season with strong-armed quarterback Nick Saul. Saul has since graduated, but the Lions possess a nice stable of running backs and should be able to churn out yardage with seniors Bailey Welch, Sam Fairly and Cliff Krause, who led the team in total yards last year. A veteran offensive line, consisting of returning senior starters ZachTrussell (right guard), Kyle Dwyer (left tackle) and Billy Loconsole (right tackle), returning junior starter Jarrad Arellano (center) and newcomer Alex Lang (sophomore), gives coach Dan Sanko reason for optimism that the Lions can run on opposing defenses. Senior Griffin Huba takes over at quarterback, with classmates Alan Kass and Eric Puccini lining up at wideout.

DEFENSE Sanko doesn’t mince words when he says defense will be the Lions’ strong suit. The only scenario that gives him pause for concern is that Huba will be playing outside linebacker in addition to running the offense.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Manteno, 7:15 p.m. (Lost 34-22) Sept. 6 – @ Herscher 7 p.m. (Won 27-17) Sept. 13 – @ Seneca, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 14-13) Sept. 20 – Reed-Custer, 7:15 p.m. (Won 38-9) Sept. 27 – Dwight, 7:15 p.m. (Won 40-0) Oct. 4 – @ Wilmington, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 24-0) Oct. 11 – Westmont, 7:15 p.m. (Won 27-6) Oct. 18 – Peotone, 7:15 p.m. (Lost 35-12) Oct. 25 – @ Sandwich, 7:30 p.m. (Won 20-14)

Lisle will utilize a 3-4 defense, as Dwyer will alternate with Arellano on the inside, flanked by Trussell and 6-6 Shane Murray, who started playing football for the first time last year. The Lions are loaded at linebacker with Huba, Welch and Kevin Coppin. Krause and Kass hold down the safety positions,

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Griffi n Huba takes over at quarterback for Lisle.

and Fairly and Puccini are at the corners.

OVERALL Lisle is hungry to get to the playoffs after missing out last

WESTMONT SENTINELS

OFFENSE

New head coach Otto Zeman was the offensive coordinator at Fenton the past two years. Zeman’s philosophy, in his words, is to capitalize on “what the (opposing) defense gives us.” Senior Tim Doll returns at quarterback, with classmates Dennis Arens and Danny Logiurato, and junior Deshun Williams in the backfield. Candidates for starting jobs in the offensive line include seniors Keith Doyle and Jeshua Torrens, juniors Brandon Goers and Jeru Montinez, and sophomores Sam Soltswich and Anthony Griffiths. In the mix at wideout are seniors Greg Pietrzak, Brett Sible, Seth Torrens and Dmareyea Smith, and junior Anthony Powers.

DEFENSE Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Tim Doll returns at quarterback for Westmont.

On the line, the Sentinels will have Doyle and Montinez, and juniors Quintin Brown and Marcus Mott-Larson,

year despite having a 5-4 record. The Lions must stay away from injuries, however, since it has a 25-man roster. “I think we will be way ahead of the curve this year,” Sanko said.“We’ve got some

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Herscher, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-13) Sept. 6 – @ Plano, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 33-6) Sept. 13 – @ Wilmington, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 41-0) Sept. 20 – Seneca, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 46-13) Sept. 27 – @ Reed-Custer, 7:30 p.m. (Won 35-14) Oct. 4 – Dwight, 7:30 p.m. (Won 7-6) Oct. 11 – @ Lisle, 7:15 p.m. (Lost 27-6) Oct. 18 – Coal City, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 31-14) Oct. 25 – @ Peotone, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 23-6)

who checks in as the largest Westmont player at 260 pounds. Four players are vying for inside linebacker—Arens, Torrens, senior Trevean Johnson and junior Adam Ferrell—and three

linebackers that can run and tackle. Hopefully, I think we can put more points on the board early instead of waiting until the middle of the season.” --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

will be after starting outside linebacker posts: Logiurato, and sophomores Jackson Arias and BJ Zakem.

OVERALL Zeman will try to turn a team around that went 2-7 in 2012, but he insists the Sentinels’ talent on both sides of the ball is just as good as Fenton, a Class 6A school (Westmont is 3A). “The kids really worked hard and had a great summer,” Zeman said. “It’s a new system and new philosophy, and so far they’ve been able to adapt pretty well.” Prior to assisting at Fenton, Zeman was the head coach at Riverside-Brookfield for 28 years until 2009. There, he mentored six All-State quarterbacks, and he believes Doll is “right up there with all of them. He has the potential to be as good as any of them.” In addition to Zeman being the new coach, the entire assistant coaching staff is new. --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

CSL SOUTH PREVIEW Most high school football teams that go into a new season minus 10 AllConference players are likely looking at a rebuilding year, if not a down year. However, Maine South, as everyone knows, isn’t like most teams. The Hawks,who are pursuing their 13th consecutive CSL South championship this season and haven’t lost a conference game since 2000, are well-stocked once again in the post-Matt Alviti era. Maine South’s new quarterback, senior Alec Basso, won’t have to do as much on his own like Alviti did because Basso will have more offensive weapons at his disposal to take some of the pressure off. The Hawks are deep at running back and wide receiver, and while graduation took four-fifths of the offensive line, 6-6 Vanderbilt-bound senior Brendan Brosnan is the mainstay of a line that will be able to get the job done. Plenty of seasoned veterans can be found on the defensive side of the ball, too. Though the Hawks won yet another title last season, the rest of the clubs in the division showed their mettle, too. Four of the five teams—New Trier, Glenbrook South, Evanston and Niles West—earned spots in the postseason. The Trevians and Titans could very well be nipping at Maine South’s heels all season as each team welcomes back a number of returning starters. New Trier QB Frank Nicholas will be looking for wideouts Mark Snyder and Spencer Cotton, both of whom started

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

last year. Meanwhile, Michael Sternus is a returning allconference defensive lineman. Glenbrook South is deciding on a new quarterback, but whoever wins the job can count on All-CSL South picks Cody Carroll (wideout) and running back Brett Laurie to make big plays. Evanston has been plugging in new talent over the summer after graduating a plethora of seniors, yet they can still give foes fits with strong-arm quarterback Chris Little, AllConference linebacker Zach Smith and jack-of-all-trades Maalik Todd, another All-CSL South selection.

MIKE’S TAKE 1. Maine South: The Hawks are still the team to beat. They’re seeking to avenge what, for them, has been two earlier-than-expected exits from the playoffs. 2. Glenbrook South: Among the Titans’ returning starters are eight on defense. There also may not be a better defensive backfield in the division than Glenbrook South’s. 3. New Trier: The Trevians have the same number of starters returning on offense as the Titans have on defense, including four veteran offensive linemen. 4. Evanston: Coach Mike Burzawa always gets the best out of his players, who’ll be challenged right out of the gate by 2012 Class 8A playoff qualifier Proviso West and Crete-Monee, the defending Class 6A state champion. 5. Niles West: Junior QB Tommy Galanopoulos takes the reigns after sharing snaps as a sophomore, and Andrew Milhuet is a capable playmaker, but the Wolves could be fighting an uphill battle to grab a second straight playoff berth.

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Junior George Sargeant gives Maine South a big receiver option at 6-5.

6. Waukegan: Quarterback Melvin Bobo almost singlehandedly led Waukegan to a near upset of New Trier last season, running for two long TDs and throwing for three more. Bobo, though, may be the Bulldogs’ lone offensive weapon. mike@buglenewspapers.com

2012 Standings Conference TEAM

Maine South New Trier Glenbrook S. Evanston Niles West Waukegan

WON LOST 5 4 3 2 1 0

0 1 2 3 4 5

Overall

WON 11 6 5 5 5 2

LOST 1 4 5 5 5 7

Points

FOR

425 207 302 210 257 124

AGAINST 166 209 240 173 271 219

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

MAINE SOUTH HAWKS

OFFENSE

The Hawks’ most glaring graduation loss, of course, is Matt Alviti, who is among the IHSA’s all-time leaders in a handful of passing categories. Senior Alec Basso and sophomore Brian Collis have been sharing snaps throughout the summer and training camp, but Basso has emerged as the front-runner. Brendan Brosnan, a 6-6, 275-pound senior Vanderbilt recruit, leads a retooled offensive line that includes seniors Greg Ebacher, Marty Balow, Tyler Bolger and Gus Post. The Hawks also have a nice stable of skill players, with running backs Clay Burdelik (senior) and Justin Fahey (junior), and senior wideouts George Sajenko and Tony Buenrostro, along with junior Vinny Labus.

DEFENSE Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Alec Basso won the starting quarterback job for Maine South.

The Hawks possess solid experience at key positions, particularly linebacker, as

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Montini, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – WWS, 7 p.m. (Won 19-13) Sept. 12 – @ Glenbrook North, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 20 – Maine East, 7 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 27 – Glenbrook South, 7 p.m. (Won 35-14) Oct. 4 – @ New Trier, 7:30 p.m. (Won 45-14) Oct. 11 – @ Niles West, 7 p.m. (Won 51-14) Oct. 18 – Evanston 7 p.m. (Won 31-21) Oct. 25 – @ Waukegan, 7:30 p.m. (Won 44-20)

Labus, Phil Uhlig and Jack Perez return. Seniors John Hader, a state qualifying track sprinter, and Tim Pierce are the starting cornerbacks. The defensive line has Ebacher, Bulger and senior

Luke Durbin. Buenrostro will be one of the Hawks’ starting safeties.

OVERALL Opposing teams (particularly those in the CSL South) which may be under the impression that they can exact some revenge on the Hawks now that Alviti and other standouts from 2012 have graduated had better push the reset button on that mindset. “I kind of chuckle (when I hear that) because every year we’ve lost a lot of guys,” head coach David Inserra said. “I think we have some depth in the backfield on both sides. I like our depth at running back and receiver so that takes a little bit of a load off of them (Basso and Collis).” The Hawks are on a mission this season to end a two-year cycle in which they’ve mowed through the regular season undefeated, only to suffer their lone loss of the year in the playoffs. --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

NILES WEST WOLVES OFFENSE

Junior quarterback Tommy Galanopoulos shared snaps last season, but he’s the man this year. Galanopoulos is mobile, and has improved his passing skills over the summer while also spending a lot of time in the weight room. Senior wideout Andrew Mihulet proved to be a valuable playmaker for Niles West in 2012, and running back Nick Johnson is back for his third varsity campaign. Johnson will be joined in the backfield by juniors Jeremy Pignato and Brandon Constantino. The offensive line is led by senior returnee Louis Reinemann, senior Denis Gargovic (a defensive lineman in 2012), and juniors George Tripkos, Dan Studer and Tahir Meeks.

DEFENSE The Reinemann and Pignato brothers will be front and center on the defensive side of the ball for Niles West. Adam Pignato, Jeremy’s twin brother,

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

saw action at linebacker in 2012, and Jeremy was a starting defensive back. Adam will join a linebacking group consisting of senior Isaac Reinemann, a senior outside linebacker, and Meeks, who also will see

playing time at linebacker. The defensive backfield has Johnson, the aforementioned Jeremy Pignato, senior returning starter Garrett Iverson (safety) and junior Chris Cervantes in the mix.

OVERALL The Wolves (5-5) graduated a number of seniors who were instrumental in them qualifying for the playoffs for the first time since 2004, but Niles West is not void of returning talent. “We had success, and our seniors were definitely the leaders on the team,” head coach Scott Baum said. “But we played a lot of young kids (too).” Prior to the start of this season, Baum said the Wolves are going to go as far as Galanopoulos takes them. “He was thrown into the fire last year, but now things have slowed down and he has a feel for things,” Baum said.“We’re so far ahead of the curve because of that.” --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Andrew Milhulet will be a go-to receiver for Niles West.

CSL NORTH PREVIEW Predicting who’ll win the CSL North isn’t as cut and dry as it is in the CSL South, where Maine South dominates the division. But the upper half of the CSL North hasn’t changed much in recent years. Glenbrook North, Deerfield and Highland Park duke it out for the title, while Maine East, Niles North and Maine West have been trying to reach the level of the Spartans,Warriors and Giants. Grant Rushing, who achieved All-State honors at running back for Glenbrook North last season, will be tough to replace, but the Spartans return a number of starters on both sides of the ball

from a team that went 5-0 in the division. Chief among them are All-Conference senior quarterback A.J. Spitz, who’ll be throwing to a trio of all-league wideouts: seniors Alex Zera and Nick Cox, and junior David Burnside. Deerfield exhibited resilience during 2012, ending up with a 5-4 record after starting out 1-3. Returning quarterback Ben Ethridge took over at that juncture and led the Warriors to a 4-1 divisional record. Deerfield also has an experienced backfield with running backs Sam Modro and Eric Williams. Highland Park, like Glenbrook North, has a large contingent of returning starters off its 3-6, 3-2 team of a year ago. Senior QB Tommy Sutker can call on All-CSL North receiver Grant Paley (who also doubles as a safety) while Jason

Goldsmith was All-Conference at linebacker. Leading Niles North are three All-CSL North seniors: two-way lineman James Edmond, as well as Vincent Rodriguez and Alex Tartar, both of whom play at running back and linebacker. Maine East’s returning senior All-Conference QB Alex Corey—one of three Corey brothers on the team who are the sons of head coach Gabe Corey— hit the weight room big-time after last season.

MIKE’S TAKE 1. Glenbrook North: The Spartans should be able to hold off the rest of the pack and find themselves on top of the CSL North once again. 2. Highland Park: The Giants have nice balance offensively and defensively. They also have kicker

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2012 Standings Conference TEAM

Glenbrook N. Deerfield Highland Park Niles North Maine East Maine West

WON LOST 5 4 3 2 1 0

0 1 2 3 4 5

Josh Pollack,anArizona State recruit who can be a difference-maker. 3. Deerfield: The middle portion of the schedule will make or break the Warriors this season. They face 2012 playoff qualifiers Glenbrook South and New Trier, and then play Highland Park and Glenbrook North in consecutive weeks. 4. Niles North: The Vikings have enough talent to keep them ahead of Maine East and Maine West, but

Overall

WON 8 5 3 4 3 1

LOST 2 4 6 5 6 98

Points

FOR

346 180 203 206 132 133

AGAINST 194 161 238 244 307 326

fall short against the division’s top three squads. 5. Maine East: You can’t help but root for coach Corey and the Demons because the effort is there, and they want so badly to get to the promised land of a winning season. 6. Maine West: The Warriors open against two Chicago Public League teams:United Prep Charter/ Bronzeville, and Solorio Academy. mike@buglenewspapers.com

MAINE EAST BLUE DEMONS OFFENSE

The Demons have lost one Corey brother to graduation, but three remain, and each will have important roles in this season’s offense. Senior Alex Corey returns at quarterback; he’s been a weight room warrior during the off-season and has put on 30 pounds since last year. Woody Corey, a sophomore, is back as a flanker. George, a junior, helps anchor the offensive line at guard, along with 6-4, 325-pound junior Nick Pavlovic. Senior tailback Christian Lopez, who earned AllCSL North honors in 2012, and bone-jarring 260-pound fullback Javed Lukovic, a three-year starter, return. Senior Andrew Wint played primarily on defense last season, but will see more action at split end.

DEFENSE One of the more intriguing moves head coach Gabe Corey has made heading into the season was to put 5-7, 160-pound senior John Williams at nose guard.The coach explained that going with the smaller Williams enables Maine East to get into the gap quicker. Returnees Lopez and Alex Corey will man free and strong safety, respectively. Juniors Monk Bayar and Justin Ethakattu get the nod at cornerback. Another junior, Steve Youel, may play either corner or outside linebacker. Senior Julian Bramrut started at tight end in 2012, but he’ll be moved to linebacker this fall.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

OVERALL The Demons will try once again to go where no Maine East football team has gone since 1978: to the playoffs … which means the Demons also would accomplish a feat no other Maine East squad has achieved in 35 years: a winning season. “We’re excited,” Gabe Corey said. “They know they have an opportunity. Last year we had close to 3,000 total yards.The thing is we have to finish (in the red zone).” --Compiled by Mike Sandrolini

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Alex Corey (12) and Andrew Wint return for Maine East.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

WSC GOLD PREVIEW A virtual shooin win the West Suburban Gold over the past several years, Downers South exper ienced a downer of a season last fall. The Mustangs finished in threeway tie for the Gold crown, but their 4-5 overall record turned out to be the only losing mark they endured during the 24-year tenure of John Belskis. Belskis’ retirement from teaching opened the door for Mark Molinari to take over as head coach. The 39-year-old Molinari inherits a young club, but the position the Mustangs find themselves in is really no different than what two of last season’s Gold frontrunners are experiencing going into this

year: relying on younger players to fill the gaps. Last year’s WSG champion, Leyden, has lost several key personnel to graduation. Meanwhile, Willowbrook, which finished 6-4 overall, has been decimated by the graduation of 17 starters. However, two squads— Hinsdale South and Addison Trail—return numerous starters. Addison Trail took its lumps in 2012, finishing even lower in the standings than Morton (2-7, 1-5 compared to Morton’s 3-6, 2-4). But the Blazers, led by senior two-way player Jim Wislek, could be back in the thick of things in the division. The Hornets, coming off a 6-4, 4-2 mark, are strong on either side of the ball with offensive lineman Frank Calbrea and defensive lineman Antanus Riskus, both seniors. They also have senior Arian Toney, who

romped for over 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns. David Odom, who coached Benet Academy’s defensive backs and also was the school’s sophomore coach last season, takes over as head coach at Proviso East, which didn’t win a game during 2012.

MIKE’S TAKE: 1. Hinsdale South: Coach Mike Barry has led the Hornets to two successive winning seasons following five losing campaigns since taking over in 2011.Hinsdale South should have enough to win the division. 2. Addison Trail: It will be a tossup for second place between the Blazers, Downers South and Leyden. The edge goes to the Blazers at this juncture based on their sheer number of returning starters (14). 3. Downers South: How well the Mustangs’ youngsters—

2012 Standings TEAM

Conference

WON LOST

Leyden 6 Willowbrook 4 Hinsdale South 4 Downers South 4 Morton 2 Addison Trail 1 Proviso East 0

0 2 2 2 4 5 6

including 6-7 sophomore offensive lineman Erik Swenson—develop this season will determine how far they rise in the WSG standings. 4. Leyden: The Eagles’ nonconference schedule will be tough. Buffalo Grove, Oak ParkRiver Forest and Lyons Township each qualified for the 2012 playoffs. 5. Willowbrook: The Warriors snapped a string of four consecutive losing seasons and made the playoffs all in one

Overall

WON 7 6 6 4 3 2 0

LOST 3 4 4 5 6 7 9

Points

FOR

AGAINST

194 299 326 263 158 116 85

122 331 194 236 254 275 330

season last year. But losing so many starters from that team may be too much to overcome. 6. Morton: The Mustangs haven’t posted a winning season in 27 years. Make that 28 at the end of October. 7. Proviso East: Odom left Benet, which advanced to the 7A quarterfinals last year, to become the third Pirates’ head coach in the past four years. Needless to say, he’s got quite a challenge ahead of him. mike@buglenewspapers.com

DOWNERS SOUTH MUSTANGS OFFENSE

The Mustangs will be looking for juniors Jordan Skach and Jacob Baker to lead the offense. The two have been competing for the starting quarterback position. Skach played some as a sophomore last year. Javon Turner is back among the wide receivers and big things are expected from him. Alec Arvanitakis is moving from the defensive backfield last year and will be the running back this year. On the offensive line is Division-I recruit Erik Swenson. Swenson is a 6-foot, 6-inch, 290-pound sophomore. Marcus Rutledge is moving from defense to right guard. New coach Mark Molinari is looking to run the ball and control the clock this year.

DEFENSE

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Javon Turner is expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball for Downers South.

The Mustangs surrendered 236 points last year and gave up big points in some key losses. Molinari, the defensive coordinator last year, is expecting big improvements as several sophomores saw action last year.

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – Benet, 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 6 – @ Proviso West 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – @ Addison Trail, 7:30 p.m. (Won 35-20) Sept. 20 – Morton, 7:30 p.m. (Won 48-7) Sept. 27 – @ Leyden, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-21) Oct. 4 – Downers North, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-20) Oct. 11 – @ Willowbrook, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-29) Oct. 18 – Proviso East, 7:30 p.m. (Won 34-7) Oct. 25 – Hinsdale South, 7:30 p.m. (Won 36-33)

Leading the defense this year are three-year starters Rashaun Cowan (inside linebacker) and Deandre Washington (defensive back). Junior Caleb Konney (end/ linebacker) is in his second year

on varsity and Turner will play some on the defensive side of the ball as well.

OVERALL Coming off a 2011 season that saw them advance to the quarterfinals, the Mustangs had high expectations again in 2012. However, they opened the season with a loss to South Elgin and could never put it all together, finishing 4-5. It was the first losing season for the Mustangs since 1980. There is a new coach this year for the first time since 1989. Downers South opens play at home against Class 7A state semifinalist Benet in an area clash. The Mustangs also have West Suburban Silver crossover games against Downers North and Proviso West. That makes three playoff foes for the Mustangs in their nonconference schedule. “We have played a lot of good first games and we are really excited to be playing Benet,” Molinari said. “It will be a good test.” -Compiled by Scott Taylor

WSC SILVER PREVIEW The West S u b u r b a n Conference Silver Division makes a strong case for being the most rugged division in Illinois high school football. It also is a frequent stop for college recruiters, particularly those from Division I programs. Defending Class 7A champion Glenbard West leads the pack, and overall, six of the seven clubs in the WSS qualified for the postseason last year. While it remains to be seen whether the Hilltoppers can repeat as 7A champs, they’ve clearly got enough weapons back to make another run at the WWS crown. Coach Chad Hetlet (595 in the past five years) returns the potent backfield tandem of tailback Scott Andrews (over

1,200 yards, 19 TDs in 2012) and fullback Devante Toney. There’s also wideout Luke Domask, returning starting linebackers Jordan Hassan and George Grenno, and Stanfordbound kicker Hayden Lekacz. The Hilltoppers’ offensive line, always one of their strong suits, features Eric Schute (6-5, 280 pounds). Downers North (7-5) rebounded in a big way last season after enduring a few down years, advancing to the 7A quarterfinals before bowing to Benet in that 26-24 thriller. The Trojans are buoyed by 14 returning starters, including 6-7 quarterback David Edwards, along with the Toledo bound duo of outside linebacker Vontae Diggs and wideout Richard Olekanma. Last year’s WSS runner-up, Hinsdale Central (7-3) boasts Michigan State recruit Brian Allen (O-line) and tight end Ian Bunting, who’s committed

to Michigan. However, the Red Devils graduated several seniors from a year ago. Oak Park-River Forest (7-4) and Lyons Township (7-5) are teams that bear watching as the Huskies return 12 starters and the Lions eight. OPRF (7-4) got a boost this month when wideout Simmie Cobbs, who left the Huskies for Montini last season, decided to return to OPRF for his senior year. LT junior running back Leonard Ross already has an offer from Illinois.

MIKE’S TAKE: 1. Glenbard West: Anything’s possible, but as good as the rest of the teams are in this division, it’s hard to imagine that the Hilltoppers will be dethroned. Glenbard West fans can expect another stellar season along Lake Ellyn. 2. Downers North: Edwards established himself as one of the premier QBs in the division

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2012 Standings TEAM

Conference

WON LOST

Glenbard West 6 Hinsdale Central 4 OPRF 3 Lyons 3 Proviso West 3 Downers North 2 York 0

0 2 3 3 3 4 6

during his first varsity season. Look for Edwards and the Trojans to build on last year’s successful campaign. 3. Oak Park-River Forest: Cobbs’ return gives the Huskies an unexpected shot in the arm, but OPRF also has quarterback Lloyd Yates. Running back Jamal Baggett is fielding offers from Division I teams. 4. Hinsdale Central: Allen and Bunting are studs, but do the Red Devils have enough upand-coming talent to overcome the loss of several graduated starters?

Overall

WON

LOST

14 7 7 7 6 7 0

0 3 4 5 4 5 9

FOR 473 268 346 362 248 277 151

AGAINST 117 210 304 284 183 252 336

5. Lyons Township: We’re picking the Lions to finish fifth, but don’t be surprised if they catch fire towards the end of the season—something they’ve had a knack of doing in recent years. 6. Proviso West: Denzel Tolliver verbally committed to NIU as a tight end, but he’ll be at quarterback for the Panthers, who are going for their fifth straight postseason appearance. 7. York: The once-formidable Dukes have fallen on hard times after going 0-9 last season. mike@buglenewspapers.com

DOWNERS NORTH TROJANS OFFENSE

Junior quarterback David Edwards is expected to return at the helm after accumulating more than 650 rushing yards and 500 passing yards. Edwards burst onto the scene last year as sophomore, leading the Trojans to the playoffs. He should be joined in the backfield by senior Kyle Leto, who was over 800 yards. Richard Olekanma led the wide receivers last year as a junior with 274 receiving yards. The Trojans put up 277 points in 12 games last year.

DEFENSE The Trojans allowed 252 points in 12 games last year and welcome back a pair of Toledo recruits in defensive end Vontae Diggs and inside linebacker Olekanma. Diggs recorded 56 tackles last year with 16 going for loss and six sacks. The Trojans have their top three tacklers back as linebacker Daniel Izewski (57 tackles) and defensive back

2013 Schedule (2012 results)

Aug. 30 – @ Lockport, 7 p.m. (Won 27-7) Sept. 6 – Hinsdale South 7:30 p.m. (Did not play) Sept. 13 – Glenbard West, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 26-0) Sept. 20 – @ OPRF, 7:30 p.m. (Won 16-14) Sept. 27 – Lyons, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 31-0) Oct. 4 – @ Downers South, 7:30 p.m. (Won 27-20) Oct. 11 – York, 7:30 p.m. (Won 38-21) Oct. 18 – @ Proviso West, 7:30 p.m. (Lost 27-41) Oct. 25 – @ Hinsdale C., 7:30 p.m. (Lost 21-20)

Sean Sandecz (40 tackles, INT) are expected back. Zachary Dutcher and Michael Dashut both had more than 30 tackles last year as junior linebackers. Junior Kendrick Schultz is

expected to be back in the defensive backfield, after making 25 tackles last year. Senior lineman Joseph Hill had 24 tackles (6 for loss) and two sacks.

OVERALL After three straight losing seasons, Downers North advanced to the quarterfinals of the Class 7A state playoffs last year before losing in heartbreaking fashion to Benet. The Trojans welcome back several key players from that team, giving them even higher hopes this season. The area they can improve most in would be in the South Suburban Silver, where they went just 2-4. They open the season against Lockport (1-8) and also face Hinsdale South and Downers South in their nonconference slate. With all of the sophomores and juniors that played last year, expectations are high in 2013 for the Trojans. -Compiled by Scott Taylor

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Junior quarterback David Edwards hopes to lead Downers North back to the playoffs.

PIGSKIN PREVIEW • AUGUST 2013

2013 Football TOP TEAM Scott: Bolingbrook Synopsis: There is something about Bolingbrook that I really like this year. With Aaron Bailey gone, many people think the Raiders aren’t a state contender this year. However, Quincy Woods gained some experience last year when Bailey was hurt and that should pay off this year. There is a lot of talent around him on offense. Meanwhile, the defense was young last year and should be much improved. Mark: JCA Synopsis: Just like Bolingbrook, everyone is looking at who the Hillmen lost (ie Ty Issac) and not what they gained. Joliet Catholic is now back to their blue collar, lunchpail mentality of pounding the football and that has proven to be successful over the years. A tough ESCC schedule might not produce the best regular season record, but the battles will play off in the post season.

The Cougars have become consistently competitive and an off season last year was still good enough for a 4-5 record. With a lot of attrition throughout the Southwest Prairie Conference, I think the Cougars could bring home six or seven wins this year. The defense looks solid and if the offense can improve a bit, South will be a tough out.

seem to matter. The highprofile Division-I recruit led our coverage area in rushing last year as a junior and it wouldn’t surprise mean to top his average per game from last year. I think there is enough balance there to take some pressure off him, and even if not, he will still produce.

Mark: Minooka Synopsis: It is well documented that the Indians have a tough task to open the season with Morris, Providence and Oswego in their first three games. Those battles, along with coach Paul Forsyth having a season under his belt, will have the Indians ready for a Southwest Prairie Conference that after Oswego is up for grabs. Minooka should challenge for that second spot in the SPC and will be battle-tested in the playoffs.

SURPRISE TEAM

TOP OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Scott: Plainfield South Synopsis: Some people may think Clifton Garrett is a oneman show for the Cougars. However, that is not the case.

Scott: Chris James, Notre Dame Synopsis: Everyone knows who is going to get the ball for the Dons, but that didn’t

motivation of playing well to keep his scholarship since he hasn’t committed yet. Mark: Parrker Westphal, Bolingbrook Synopsis: I agree completely with Scott that Garrett will be a star this season, but I think he and Westphal are pretty much No.1 and No. 1-A in the area. Ranked as the No. 17 defensive back in the nation by Rivals.com, Westphal may not generate the numbers as some of the top defenders, because as a top-notch corner back, teams don’t attack his side of the field. Bolingbrook coach John Ivlow said Westphal took a step forward from last season, comparing his growth to that of Antonio Morrison between his junior and senior seasons. That right there should scare opposing offenses.

Mark: Jack Beneventi, Benet Synopsis: Even though he lost practically his entire receiver corps from last year, Beneventi is too talented not to find someone to catch the football. Only a junior, the 6-6, 190 pound signal caller already has looks from more than a dozen schools, including Stanford, Michigan, USC, Notre Dame and Georgia.

TOP DEFENSIVE PLAYER

BREAKOUT PLAYER

Scott: Clifton Garrett, Plainfield South Synopsis: It is hard to go against the No. 59 recruit in the nation, according to ESPN. When you are being recruited by the likes of LSU, Florida and Tennessee, you are good. Garrett also got the experience of playing at “The Opening,” Nike’s summer camp. He also has the

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Scott: Anthony Love, Romeoville Synopsis: Love has spent time on varsity the past two years for the Spartans. A tight end as a sophomore, Love showcased his athleticism. He played on both sides of the ball last year and has turned into a defensive player

SURPRISE PLAYER Scott: Shane Briscoe, Minooka Synopsis: Briscoe, a coach’s son, performed well in limited action with the Indians last year. It is his team this year and I think he will make a name for himself. Minooka had a down year last year in missing the playoffs and I think he is a big reason why they get back this year. Mark: Brendan Reed, Lockport Synopsis: The 6-foot, 2-inch, 175 pound senior wide receiver will be the main target in the Porters’ passing game this season. He returns along with quarterback Ryan Dalton, who was able to get a rapport with Reed all last season.

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to watch. I expect to see a huge season from Love where he could end up with 100-plus tackles. Mark: Tim Doll, Westmont Synopsis: A talented, multisport athlete, Doll now has the legendary Otto Zeman calling the plays. Zeman coached six all-state quarterbacks in his 28 years at Riverside-Brookfield and Doll has all the talent to be No. 7.

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Will Maine S. win the CSL?

28, 2013