MC Preps Football 2014 by Shaw Media

Through their eyes

THE TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE PAGES 4-8

2014 prep football preview

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

IN THIS SECTION 3

Views: Sports editor Jon Styf is learning how to watch football.

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TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE Vintage football: Prairie Ridge and Cary-Grove run the triple-option offense, which isn’t exactly modern, but it is effective. Inside the triple option: An in-depth look at the offensive scheme. What the QB sees: The quarterback’s reads are the key. Defending the option: The right defense can make all the difference.

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The spread: Wide-open offenses are becoming more popular. Take 2: Joe Stevenson and Lester Johnson can’t wait for Week 1.

CONFERENCE AND TEAM PREVIEWS 11 Fox Valley Conference Valley Division Crystal Lake South (p. 12), McHenry (p. 12), Jacobs (p. 14), Dundee-Crown (p. 14), Huntley (p. 15), Cary-Grove (p. 17) 24 Fox Valley Conference Fox Division Crystal Lake Central (p. 25), Prairie Ridge (p. 25), Woodstock (p. 26), Woodstock North (p. 26), Hampshire (p. 28), Grayslake Central (p. 28), Grayslake North (28) 29 Big Northern Conference East Division Johnsburg (p. 29), Harvard (p. 30), Marengo (p. 31), Richmond Burton (p. 31) 32 East Suburban Catholic Conference/Marian Central 33 Alden-Hebron 16-22 5 to watch: Some of the top players are featured. 23 Staff predictions/Preseason All-Area team 17/20 Journals: Four players write about what football means to them. 34-35 Rosters: For all of the local teams

STAY CONNECTED Webcast schedule Watch Friday night football games live at McHenryCountySports.com: Week 1 – Aug. 29 CL South at Marian Central Week 3 – Sept. 12 CL Central at Prairie Ridge

Week 7 – Oct. 10 Cary-Grove at Jacobs Week 9 – Oct. 24 Cary-Grove at CL South

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Text the keyword NWHPREPS to 74574 for high school sports text alerts from the Northwest Herald. Message and data rates apply.

Marengo’s Drake Stavroplos catches a pass during practice July 30 at Marengo High School. Read about the Indians on page 31. Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Can’t make it to the game? We’ll deliver the score to you. iPhone users can download the free McHenryCountyScores app from the online App Store.

Follow us on Twitter Sports editor Jon Styf – @JonStyf Assistant sports editor Tom Clegg – @TripleTClegg Sports staff Joe Stevenson – @NWH_JoePrepZone Mike DeFabo – @MikeDeFabo Joey Kaufman – @JoeyRKaufman Chris Casey – @ChrisCaseyNWH Alex Kantecki – @akantecki Kevin Meyer – @kevmeyer18 Lester Johnson – @moreorlesj @McHenryCoSports

COVER PHOTO

Hampshire’s Jake Manning warms up with his teammates during practice Aug. 12 at Hampshire High School. Michael Smart – For Shaw Media

SECTION DESIGN Tom Clegg Assistant sports editor

PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Jacobs running back Josh Walker carries the ball during practice Aug. 11 in Algonquin. Michael Smart – For Shaw Media

How to watch football: It’s a learning process into all that goes into planning and playing each position in high school football. In early August, we ran a series on each position’s responsibilities, along I’ll admit it. When I watch with some great explainer football, I usually watch the videos online from Johnsball. burg coach Mike Maloney, At high school games, I Huntley’s John Hart and have to. With NFL games, I Matt Zimolzak and Marian hardly know how not to. Central’s Dirk Stanger and Try as I might to underBilly Bahl. stand what’s going on or why Those guys know the in the trenches, it’s always intricacies of the game way somehow eluded me. better than I do, better than I never played the game. I we do, so why not let them just know people who did. explain it to you better than That’s why this year, for we could? people like me, we’re trying If you want to see those, to give readers more insight it’s easy to find them at

VIEWS Jon Styf

More online The Northwest Herald recently ran an eight-part “Football 101” series. Find all the stories, along with our “Football 101” video series with coaches from Huntley, Marian Central and Johnsburg at shawurl. com/football101. shawurl.com/football101. Our goal this season, like

it is every season, is to take you inside the huddle with all of our local high school football teams. This year, we’re just doing it with a lot more detail. So maybe people like me will leave this season with a better understanding of the difference between an X and Y receiver, knowing better what gap responsibilities are for linemen and know when a receiver is actually going out to catch a pass or just trying to run a defensive back out of a run play. I try to understand the game beyond where the ball is. Heck, I was the guy who was adamant about voting

for Prairie Ridge offensive and defensive lineman Shane Evans as our Player of the Year last season. No offense to Jacobs’ Bret Mooney, he was outstanding and provided some of the best moments the season had to offer. I just thought Evans altered the game, on both sides of the ball, more than any other player I watched. After this fall, hopefully I can become a little better at taking my eyes off the ball. • Northwest Herald sports editor Jon Styf can be reached at jstyf@nwherald. com or on Twitter @JonStyf.

TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

Cary-Grove quarterback Jason Gregoire (left) pitches the ball during practice Aug. 13, as the Trojans work on their triple-option offense.

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

An OLDIE but a GOODIE Tricky triple-option offense isn’t new, but it’s still effective By JOE STEVENSON joestevenson@shawmedia.com

“

For me, personally, the

ary-Grove quarterback [opponent] can have my Quinn Baker took the snap playbook if they want it. That and stepped to his right, would help me, but that’s me. sticking the ball in the belly of fullback Kyle Norberg, then Bill Mack yanking it back. Triple-option guru and former Crystal Lake Baker tossed quickly to runCentral football coach ning back Ryan Mahoney, who raced around running back Kaene Connington’s block on the right end, untouched, for 6A football playoff semifinal a 63-yard touchdown against game. Lake Forest in their 2012 Class It was only one play to tie the score

”

in the first quarter, but it seemed like much more. It marked the start of a long and frustrating afternoon for Lake Forest’s defense, which had no answer for the Trojans’ triple-option offense. When C-G was done, it had 512 total yards, a 42-21 victory and a third trip to the state championship game. Mahoney, Norberg and Baker all rushed for more than 100 yards. That game serves as a prime example why opponents rank facing a proficient option offense, like those at C-G and Prairie Ridge, high on their list of things they least like to do. Particularly in the postseason. “Once you get into the playoffs and those teams haven’t seen an option

team, we like to think that’s a huge advantage,” C-G coach Brad Seaburg said. Prairie Ridge coach Chris Schremp concurred. “I hate when more people run [option],” Schremp said. “That’s one of the reasons we’ve been so successful in the playoffs. A good family friend of mine had a son on Fenwick’s team [in 2010] and they thought they were going to kick our butts. After the game, he said, ‘That option of yours … we never knew who had the ball.’ ” In an era when spread offenses, often using some option elements, have become the norm, C-G and Prairie Ridge are thriving with an offense more than 70 years old.

TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE

Brad Seaburg Cary-Grove football coach

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Bill Mack, the head football coach at Crystal Lake Central from 1968-87 (122-57) and at Cary-Grove from 1964-67 (14-9) has influenced many current and former coaches with his teaching of the option offense. Mack is a member of the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He was head coach at North

BRUCE KAY Head coach at Cary-Grove from 19892011 (168-68). … Two state championship appearances, one state title (Class 6A, 2009). … Member of Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. … His last seven C-G teams were 77-10.

Central College, offensive coordinator at Wheaton College and offensive assistant at numerous high schools. He is a recipient of the American Football Coaches Association Randy Walker “Doing Great” Award for his influence on other coaches. Some of those he influenced are:

CHRIS SCHREMP • Head coach at Prairie Ridge from 2002 to present (89-44 in 12 seasons). … Won Class 6 A state championship in 2011. … Teams in 2009, 2010 and 2011 made playoff semifinals, becoming the only Fox Valley Conference school to accomplish that. … The Wolves are 17-7 in the playoffs since 2005 and made quarterfinals last four trips.

Bill Mack

BRAD SEABURG • Head coach at Cary-Grove from 2011 to present (28-8). … Team was Class 6A state runner-up in 2012. … Coached 10 years in C-G program, eight as head sophomore coach, before taking over when Kay retired in 2011.

– Joe Stevenson ington, with its backup quarterback John Solan running the option. “There’s a lot of offenses, and they’re all good – somebody’s winning with it somewhere,” Mack said. “I don’t think option demands a skill in terms of grading at any position. Nobody can win with poor personnel, but there are more things you can do in the option. You don’t really need big linemen. Timing and blocking and space are much more important than flat-out speed.” Mack’s sagelike advice helped former C-G coach Bruce Kay win the state title in 2009. Like Mack at Central, Kay had used option earlier in his career, but later went all-in with the offense. The first year the Trojans went triple-option, quarterback Brian Mitz led them to the Class 7A state championship game. “You’re not asking a lineman to block another lineman who’s bigger,” Kay said. “They’re going to release and let that guy go, and the quarterback has to read him. Who do you want to tackle, the fullback or the quarterback? In essence, if the quarterback makes the correct read, we’ve now taken one of their best players out of their defense because he’s tackling a guy without the ball.” The idea of option is that the quarterback will read two players, neither of whom are blocked, creating a numerical advantage for the offense. The father of the option, former Missouri coach Don Faurot, got the idea from watching fast breaks in

basketball. Faurot reasoned that one defender cannot stop two players if the ball is handled correctly, and he adapted that to football. “The key to the offense is it gives you a chance to metamorphose during the game, play by play by play,” Mack said. “It’s really not what they’re doing, it’s how well you do what you do and how quickly you recognize what’s going on on the field and take advantage of it. For me, personally, the [opponent] can have my playbook if they want it. That would help me, but that’s me.” ••• In 2002, Schremp was still new as the Wolves’ head coach and utilized a wide-open offense with 6-foot-6 quarterback Todd Babington slinging the ball over the field. It was productive, but Schremp saw smaller linemen coming up in the program and worried about protecting his quarterbacks. He had played option at Westchester St. Joseph, but was not well-versed in the offense. He called Mack. “It was two days a week, 3 to 6 o’clock, I’d sit at his kitchen table and I’d leave with the worst headache,” Schremp said. “I’d come home and Sherry would say, ‘Why do you go to those meetings? They kill you.’ ” Schremp was cramming for the test that next season. Seaburg had an easier transition to option. He coached 10 years at

C-G, eight as head sophomore coach, which allowed him to learn the option well under Kay and Mack. Both coaches run the same drills for backs and linemen, drills they have picked up from some of the nation’s top college coaches. Schremp spent his spring break with offensive coordinator Joe Terhaar at Georgia Tech, picking the brain of Yellow Jackets coach Paul Johnson. Seaburg had spoken with Johnson years before, when Johnson was at Navy. Seaburg and Kay also are close with coaches at The Citadel, a D-I school in Charleston, S.C. Those coaches rode the option at Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) to a D-II runner-up finish last season before landing new jobs. “Option coaches are kind of like a cult,” Seaburg said. “We’re definitely a minority, and we all kind of stick together.” Hard-core option fanatics are sold on its versatility. Schremp says teams occasionally “make stuff up” on defense to contend with the option. “They’ve practiced it two days, now go run it on Friday,” he said. “It rarely works.” The option may seem like dial-up in a digital world to some, but not to the option cult. “People ask me lots of times, ‘Why don’t you go to the spread? Everybody’s doing the spread,” Schremp said. “That’s why I don’t go to the spread.”

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

C-G won the Class 6A state championship in 2009 and was runner-up in 2012. The Trojans have the longest current playoff string of any area team (10 years) and are 24-9 with seven quarterfinal appearances in that span. Prairie Ridge accomplished something no other Fox Valley Conference team has done, reaching three consecutive playoff semifinals, the last culminated with the 2011 Class 6A state title. The Wolves are 17-7 in the playoffs since 2005 and have made the quarterfinals five of their last six trips. Woodstock North coach Jeff Schroeder also runs a triple-option attack, but one that looks a bit different in formations than C-G’s and Prairie Ridge’s. The Thunder went 14-7 with two Class 5A playoff appearances in the program’s second and third years but missed the playoffs last season. Seaburg and Schremp say an option offense offers many advantages with its speed, the ability to have smaller offensive linemen and versatility. With the headaches teams like Lake Forest suffered in 2012, opponents would agree. “If you take away something, you give something else up,” Lake Forest coach Chuck Spagnoli said after that game. “You’re not able to practice against it the way they run it.” ••• Any talk about option football locally starts with former Crystal Lake Central coach Bill Mack, who ran some option with the Tigers but jumped into the offense totally after retiring from high school coaching and teaching. Wheaton College coach J.R. Bishop, a good friend of Mack’s, asked him to be offensive coordinator. In order to do that and run option, Mack and Bishop went to NCAA Division II powerhouse Georgia Southern and spoke with coach Erk Russell, one of the best option minds in the country. Mack later ran option as head coach at North Central College and helped numerous high school teams – C-G, Prairie Ridge and Carmel – install option offenses. Carmel ran it so well it won the 2003 Class 6A state championship, 54-26, over Bloom-

Bill Mack option-coaching family tree

PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

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Option coaches are kind of like a cult. We’re definitely a minority, and we all kind of stick together.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE What is the triple option?

MIDLINE

The triple option was devised more than 70 years ago and remains an effective, though less-utilized system today. That suits option coaches fine. They tell you the less defenses see option teams, the tougher it is for them to stop their own option. The option relies on precise execution and timing, along with the quarterback’s quick thinking. On triple option plays, the quarterback can hand off to the fullback, keep the ball himself and run, or keep the ball and then pitch to another running back. His decisions are contingent on what the defense is doing. There are three basic plays with the option (see graphics at right), midline (up the middle), inside veer (off the guard’s hip) and outside veer (off the tackle’s hip). Players have tracks, like railroad tracks for their paths according to Prairie Ridge football coach Chris Schremp, based on how the defense lines up. The option was born when former Missouri coach Don Faurot was watching a fast break in basketball. Faurot saw that in two-on-one situations, the defender had no chance if the ball was handled properly. Faurot set out to create this on the football field; the Split-T option was what he developed. Teams run option out of different formations, with local teams Cary-Grove and Prairie Ridge usually running out of Wing-T. The quarterback keys on two players, No. 1 is often a defensive tackle or end, while No. 2 may be a linebacker or safety. These players will not be blocked as it will be the quarterback’s responsibility to read where they are going and act accordingly. He determines the direction and play (midline, inside or outside), then reads whether to hand to the fullback or keep. If the quarterback thinks the unblocked end will take the fullback, he will pull the ball back out and take off. If he thinks the end is coming upfield, he will hand off. If he keeps, he then reads No. 2, which determines whether he keeps and runs or pitches to the other back. If the quarterback reads the defenders properly, the defense is outnumbered and linemen and receivers have moved downfield to block and produce a bigger play. KEYS TO THE TRIPLE OPTION • Cary-Grove football coach Brad Seaburg and Prairie Ridge coach Chris Schremp believe one of the biggest advantages of running the option is because smaller offensive linemen can thrive. That’s because of blocking angles and sometimes defensive linemen are released so the offensive linemen go look for linebackers to block. • It goes for most offenses or defenses, but Seaburg and Schremp both constantly talk about having their linemen play low and fast. • As the season progresses, the biggest adjustment option teams make is by just getting faster. The repetitions through the season can eventually make option offenses look completely different at playoff time. • The sleight-of-hand with option offenses can be frustrating for defenses. Fullbacks often get tackled when they don’t have the ball. Quarterbacks take hits on well-timed pitches to running backs that often go for big gains. • Defensive coordinators normally want their players swarming to the ball, but that is not always advisable while defending the option. Defenses are better served to remain disciplined and stay in their lanes. • No one really knows who is getting the ball until the quarterback hands off or pitches or keeps. If even the quarterback doesn’t know, imagine how tough it can be for defenders.

– Joe Stevenson

The first key the offense reads is this tackle (1). If he pinches in to stop the fullback (FB), the offense takes the ball outside. The second key the offense reads is the end (E). If he crashes on the QB, the QB pitches it to the RB. If not, the QB runs with it.

INSIDE VEER

The end (1) is the first player the offense targets. It won’t block the end, instead reading where he goes. If he pinches in toward the RB, the QB will keep it and go outside. If the end plays the QB to run, he’ll hand it off to the RB, who runs off the guard. The safety (2) is the second player the offense targets. If the safety crashes on the QB, the QB will pitch it to a back. If not, the QB will take off and run.

OUTSIDE VEER

2 1

The strong-side linebacker (1) is the first key for the offense. If he pinches in, the QB and second RB go outside for an option. If he doesn’t, the first RB runs off the tackle. The strong safety (2) is the second key. If he goes inside, the QB and second RB go outside for an option play.

TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE

By JOE STEVENSON joestevenson@shawmedia.com

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

n option quarterback’s job seems less complicated than those in spread offenses because the option basically is a run offense. Yet while spread quarterbacks look over the field for their passing reads, option quarterbacks must make split-second decisions regarding handoffs and pitches. Regarding calling plays, option quarterbacks actually wield more command than many of their counterparts. “There’s a lot of power to the quarterback in the triple option,” said Cary-Grove quarterback Jason Gregoire, who starts his second year as starter. “It’s making the right decision every time. In the triple option, there’s a lot of moving parts and a lot of things you have to read at the same time.” C-G coach Brad Seaburg said the plays that are called in the huddle for Gregoire are more of “suggestions” than actually what he has to run. Option coaches trust that through the repetitions and watching video, their quarterbacks will recognize where defenses are susceptible before the snap and adjust accordingly. “A lot of times, that’s the play we run, but he always has the ability to change the plays,” Seaburg said. “We give a menu, especially with a guy like Jason, who’s really smart. It’s ‘Run a play you think looks good here.’ ” C-G and Prairie Ridge are two of the area’s triple-option teams. Woodstock North also runs that offense, although the Thunder’s sets differ from C-G’s and Prairie Ridge’s. C-G won the Class 6A state championship in 2009 and was runner-up in 2012, while Prairie Ridge won in 2011. Even if the option quarterback runs the play called, he still has three crucial decisions to make after the snap: to hand off to the fullback, to keep the ball, then to keep or pitch to another running back.

Prairie Ridge quarterback Brett Covalt hands off to fullback Zack Greenberg during a Class 6A playoff game last season against Boylan in Rockford. Shaw Media file photo

“Even on handoff plays, [the quarterback] will have a check,” Schremp said. “He’s reading this guy here, and now he’s reading this guy here. He knows that one guy to look for on every play.” The option quarterback wants to survey the entire field as he approaches the line of scrimmage. Once he determines if they will run in the direction called or switch sides, he looks for two defenders referred to as No. 1 and No. 2. They will not be blocked, as the quarterback’s ballhandling decisions are supposed to take them out of the play. “You have to read linebackers, you have to read linemen, a lot of things going on,” Gregoire said. “If you

don’t make the right read or right play, it can result in a turnover or a negative play. Making the right reads is really crucial to what you’re doing.” Reading how No. 1 and No. 2 will react determine whether the quarterback hands off, keeps or pitches the ball. No. 1 is usually a tackle or end, depending on the path chosen, while No. 2 could be a linebacker of safety. No. 2 is the player closest to No. 1. Linemen often loop over No. 1 and look for a linebacker to block. Backs or ends likewise will ignore No. 2 and look for another linebacker or defensive back to block. The quarterback then reads No. 1, either handing off to the fullback or keeping, then No.

PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

HEAVY READING for option QBs

2, either keeping and cutting inside that player or pitching to a running back. Both C-G and Prairie Ridge use ride-and-decide with the quarterback and fullback, which gives the quarterback a split-second when he and the fullback are both touching the ball, to keep or pull it back. “My first read is a lineman. If I know he’s going to get kicked out, I move on to the linebacker, my second read,” said Prairie Ridge quarterback Brett Covalt, who helped the Wolves to the Class 6A quarterfinals last season. “And if I see the lineman blitzing, I know I’m going to pull the ball and pitch it right away.” Deception with play fakes adds to the option’s effective-

ness. “[The defense] not knowing exactly where the ball is makes it tough,” Covalt said. “If we execute what we’ve been practicing, it’s difficult to stop.” The best option plays may result in a fullback being tackled without the ball by multiple defenders or the quarterback taking a hit a split-second after a perfectly timed pitch for a big gain to a running back. “In theory, it should work every time,” Gregoire said. “You can be disciplined [on defense] the whole game, but have one bad play and that’s going to cost you. You have to stay disciplined the whole game and that’s really hard at the high school level.”

TRIPLE-OPTION OFFENSE

STOPPING the triple option

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

Crystal Lake South’s defense stops Prairie Ridge running back Brent Anderson last season at South. Shaw Media file photo

By MIKE DeFABO mdefabo@shawmedia.com

RYSTAL LAKE – Crystal Lake South football coach Chuck Ahsmann noticed a trend after recent postseason games against Carmel, Cary-Grove and Prairie Ridge. All three ran the triple-option offense. All three games ended in losses for the Gators. But instead of pouring over game tape, dissecting the intricacies of each offense, he looked toward the other side of the ball: defense. What he found was the 3-3-5 alignment. “All three of those teams run this defense,” Ahsmann said. “We said there must be something to it.” Developed by Joe Lee Dunn in the 1990s and made famous by Charlie Strong when he was a defensive coordinator at South Carolina in the early 2000s, the 3-3-5

defense gets its name from its three down linemen, three linebackers and five defensive backs. Three of the defensive backs are in the traditional mold – small, quick defenders. The other two are “hybrid” type athletes who could play strong safety or outside linebacker. (Think Steelers safety Troy Polamalu). Their athleticism allows them to cover the flats, blitz, provide run support or help in coverage. The strength of the 3-3-5 defense is that it gets more fast, good-tackling defenders on the field at the same time – something that becomes even more important with the uncertainty of the triple option. By stacking the linebackers directly behind the three down linemen, blockers have a harder time reaching the linebackers, which makes it more difficult for quarter-

“If [the defensive players] all do their assignment, then we should hold our own pretty well. If they make a mistake, it could be a big play.” Rob Fontana Crystal Lake South defensive coordinator backs to read defenders and make decisions about what to do with the football. The Gators switched to the 3-3-5 about five years ago. The new tactic is a start, but it is by no means a fix-all when it comes to stopping the option. Part of the challenge is that defenses don’t see it that often and it’s hard for a scout team to replicate it.

“What you’re familiar with in practice every day helps,” Chris Schremp, coach of triple-option team Prairie Ridge, said. “It helps the game planning for the coaches, too. You can kind of figure out pretty easily what your own defense can stop.” No matter what defensive alignment a team runs, most coaches agree that stopping the triple option comes down to assignment-based football. For example, the inside defenders may be responsible for the fullback, no matter whether he has the football or not. The outside linebackers take care of the quarterback. And the perimeter defenders cover the pitch man. “If they all do their assignment, then we should hold our own pretty well,” South defensive coordinator Rob Fontana said. “If they make a mistake, it could be a big

play.” Even when every defensive player executes his assignment, the offense can rattle off a big gain by adjusting its plays slightly. For example, let’s assume the strong safety is responsible for the pitch man during one particular game plan. An option team can recognize this and borrow a blocker from another part of the field to take him out of the play. Suddenly, what was a 2-yard loss a play ago becomes a 25 yard gain. “It’s kind of a chess match,” Ahsmann said. Oh, and then there’s the pass. Don’t forget about play action. “You get disciplined and you’re focused on stopping the run,” Ahsmann said. “The safety is flying up to stop the pitch man, and all of the sudden the tight end is streaking up the field.”

“When we play bigger teams, we just can’t run the ball through them, so I figured, well, maybe we can go over ’em.” Crystal Lake Central quarterback Matt DeCoste drops back to pass during practice Aug. 14 at Central. The Tigers run a spread offense. Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Option isn’t answer for everyone C

9 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

– Matt Fralick, CL Central football coach

By JOEY KAUFMAN jkaufman@shawmedia.com ary-Grove coach Brad Seaburg considers his offense a throwback. Relying on an option-style running attack, the Trojans pound the ball behind big burly linemen. Last season, they amassed 2,611 rushing yards and plenty of clouds of dust. Because of their success, they stick with it year after year. But increasingly, CaryGrove is an outlier in the Fox Valley Conference and across McHenry County, which has seen a rise in the number of teams trading in the Wing-T for the shotgun. Call the spread in vogue, if you will.

Everyone is searching for an edge. Crystal Lake Central coach Matt Fralick made the switch toward the end of the 2012 season, before fully implementing the spread last season. The impetus, he said, was to better utilize skill position talent like then-quarterback Kyle Lavand and all-area first-team wide receiver Jack Ortner, who ended up catching 79 passes for 1,360 yards in the new-look offense. “We don’t get enormous linemen like some of the other programs,” Fralick said. “When we play bigger teams, we just can’t run the ball through them, so I figured, well, maybe we can go over ’em.”

For the Tigers, another reason was to avoid the sort of grind-it-out style. By installing no-huddle packages, they can play more up-tempo, and more than anything, get the ball to playmakers like Ortner Matt Fralick and running back Ryan Williams, a returning 1,000yard rusher, in space. “The skill kids fit the system well,” Fralick added. “That’s why we went to it. Basically, that’s what our strengths were from a talent standpoint.”

Most teams that shy away from the option for either prostyle offenses or the spread seem to view the switch as a way to better utilize their top talent. “Over there, they’re all going to run the option regardless if they have a great quarterback or a great (running) back,” Jacobs coach Bill Mitz said of Cary-Grove. “They’re not going to change, for whatever reason. But I’ll change to what I think our personnel is.” Mitz, who spent nearly three decades at Stevenson in Lincolnshire, says he has trotted out different systems over the years and likes to tailor his system toward his

team’s personnel. This year, it’s running back Josh Walker, who ran for more than 1,000 yards as a junior last season. “I’m not going to try to make Walker an option guy,” said Mitz, who enters his fifth season with the Golden Eagles. “I think he can be a jitterbug, where we want to get him the ball in the flat or in the open field to try to create mismatches in space versus just pounding it in there all the time.” Prairie Ridge coach Chris Schremp, who hasn’t turned in his playbook, shrugs at the new wave of offenses. “It’s popular,” he said. “College teams are doing it. It’s what they see on TV. That’s the thing to do.”

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

Prairie Ridge’s David Faccone carries the ball during practice Aug. 13 in Crystal Lake. Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

he prep football season begins Friday, but we’ve been in the classroom all fall. Reporters Joe Stevenson and Lester Johnson discuss:

Stevenson: I thought I knew football fairly well,

but I’m learning a lot this summer with our Football 101 series and working on this preview section. I really picked up a lot more about the triple option from former area coaches Bill Mack and Bruce Kay, as well as current coaches Chris Schremp and Brad Seaburg. Even those teams who don’t run triple option have some bits of that offense with them, like spread option teams that run out of the pistol with the quarterback and one back. What are some of your favorite offenses to watch in the area? Johnson: I really like to watch Marian Central’s offense because they almost always put points on the scoreboard. Offensive coordinator Dirk Stanger and coach Ed Brucker are good at molding their offense around their teams strengths and putting players in a position to excel. I like watching the Jacobs offense as well, because they have a nice mix of run and pass. Coach Bill Mitz isn’t afraid to go for the big play when they need it and they are pretty exciting to watch. When it comes to running teams, I love watching

Take2 Joe Stevenson and

Lester Johnson

FACE OFF Cary-Grove, Prairie Ridge, Woodstock North and Richmond-Burton. It’s awesome when everybody knows what’s coming and still can’t stop it. Stevenson: The option seems old school, but our area teams like C-G, Prairie Ridge and Woodstock North run it very well. When you run it fast with all those fakes, and you see the defense tackling guys without the ball, you know it’s working. I mean, if the quarterback doesn’t know who’s getting the ball down to split-seconds during a play, what’s the defense supposed to do? And I’m with you on Marian. The Hurricanes spread things out and let it fly, and they always seem to come up with great quarterbacks. Billy Bahl’s

their fourth consecutive NCAA D-I QB. Johnson: We have seen some amazing football from that group of Hurricane QBs and I think Bahl is set up to have a big season. Marian Central has had some darn good offensive linemen up there in Woodstock as well and I think that’s another big reason for their consistency, with guys like Bryan Bulaga (playing in Green Bay now), Sean Cwynar, Cody O’Neill, Scott Taylor and Kurtis Stirneman. Now they have Karl Rude, who looks like another good one. I think this could be a good year for QBs in the area. In addition to Bahl, I like guys like Hampshire’s Nick Mohlman and McHenry’s Mike Briscoe to really lead their teams and put up some good numbers. Who do you like this season at the QB position? Stevenson: I really like Johnsburg’s Nick Brengman, a third-year starter who put up pretty good numbers. I think the Skyhawks are poised for something special this season and he looks like the type of leader to pull that off. I’m eager to see what Jacobs junior Brenden Heiss can do too. He has a big-time arm, although coach Bill Mitz says there is a battle for that job. It’s fun to watch teams throw the ball, but I love watching those option teams too. Particularly with those Friday night deadlines. Run that ball, boys!

11 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Michael Smart – For Shaw Media

FOX VALLEY CONFERENCE VALLEY DIVISION Players to watch Malik Dunner, Dundee-Crown, RB-WR-DB, sr. Dunner (5-foot-11, 190 pounds) did not get a lot of offensive touches last year, but when he did, opponents often paid. He’s one of the fastest players and committed to Ball State over the summer. He’ll play more offense this season. Josh Esikiel, Huntley, WR, sr. Esikiel (5-11, 185) caught 44 passes for 495 yards and three touchdowns last season for the Red Raiders and should be one of the area’s top receivers again this fall. Michael Gomez, Cary-Grove, sr., OL-DL Gomez (6-0, 270) likely will play on both lines Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com this season. He was an anchor on defense with his strength, and he likes guard better than tight Cary-Grove senior Michael Gomez is a twoway standout on the offensive and defenend, so he’ll be back inside on offense. sive lines. Tyler Pennington, Cary-Grove, FB-LB, so. Pennington (5-9, 190) may assume the role linemen in the state. He is a third-year starter Kyle Norberg had in 2012 by playing fullback and a player defenders dread to see coming. and linebacker. He energized the offense as a freshman with 1,006 yards rushing last season. Josh Walker, Jacobs, RB, sr. Walker was the McHenry County 100 meters Trevor Ruhland, Cary-Grove, OL, sr. champion in the spring and is one of the most Ruhland (6-4, 270) committed to Notre Dame dangerous backs around with his shiftiness and in the spring and is regarded as one of the top speed. He rushed for 1,054 yards last season

and caught 21 passes.

Third-year starters Matt Sutherland, Michael Gomez and Trevor Ruhland are integral leaders for C-G. Pivotal games Jacobs The Golden Eagles won their first FVC title Huntley at Cary-Grove since 1979 last season, led by quarterback Sept. 26 Bret Mooney, the Northwest Herald Player of You can be certain that Huntley is itching for another shot at C-G after last year’s heartbreak- the Year, who graduated. Coach Bill Mitz has taken Jacobs to the playoffs three consecutive ing 20-16 loss. C-G’s Jason Gregoire hit Larkin seasons and may have enough to challenge for Hanselmann with a 60-yard pass late to win another division title. that game. Huntley The Red Raiders’ defensive line is strong and Crystal Lake South at Dundee-Crown experienced and could help them back to the Oct. 3 South lost to D-C, 14-13, in Week 3 last season, playoffs after a frustrating 4-5 season. Huntley’s a game that set a tone for both teams. D-C won first four losses last season were by seven or fewer points. close games, while South lost close ones. Cary-Grove at Jacobs Oct. 10 Jacobs is the defending FVC Valley champion, but C-G has most of its starters returning, three of whom played on the Class 6A state runner-up two years ago.

Top contenders Cary-Grove The Trojans return the majority of their starters on both sides of the ball and have the talent to be one of the state’s best Class 6A teams.

2013 standings Jacobs Cary-Grove Dundee-Crown Prairie Ridge Huntley Crystal Lake South McHenry

Conf. Overall 6-0 7-3 5-1 7-4 3-3 6-4 3-3 7-5 2-4 4-5 2-4 4-5 0-6 2-7

– Joe Stevenson joestevenson@shawmedia.com

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Crystal Lake South will look to bounce back from a 4-5 record in 2013.

CRYSTAL LAKE SOUTH: FVC VALLEY DIVISION

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

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12 Quick hits

Chuck Ahsmann

last season and completed 6 of 6 passes, with four going for touchdowns. Coach: Chuck Ahsmann (fifth season, 31-12) 2013 record: 4-5 overall, 2-4 FVC Valley Fast fact: South had the area’s longest consecutive string of making the playoffs snapped at 12 years last season.

Drill that stands out Oklahoma: Players like it because it’s one of the first drills where they really start to hit. A running back stands behind an offensive lineman, with a defensive lineman and a linebacker on the other side. When a coach blows the whistle, the offensive lineman tries to block the defensive lineman and the running back picks a side to run. There can be a big collision or there could be a touchdown.

Scouting report • Although the Gators’ impressive playoff streak ended, they still were competitive. After losing the opener by 26 points, their other four losses were by a combined total of 19 points. • South returns five offensive and five defensive starters. Alex Gardeck was one of the Gators’ Alex Gardeck top offensive linemen last season and returns there, and also will play middle linebacker. He is a third-year starter. • WR-DB Tyler Baker gives the Gators some outside speed. DB Joey Ahsmann, DL Josh Andrae and DL Steven Anchor return on a defense that should be stout.

Schedule

Michael Smart for Shaw Media

A Crystal Lake South receiver tries to haul in a pass under heavy pressure from a defender during a Gators’ practice Aug. 13 in Crystal Lake. • RB Corey Sheehan, LB Scott Coughlin and OL Kevin Amren are three key new players who could play integral roles this season.

With RBs Chris Ivers and Eric Landis graduated, Sheehan should get a lot of carries. • QB Payton Minogue saw some time late

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 @ Marian Central 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 South Elgin 7:15 p.m. Sept. 13 @ Bloom Township noon Sept. 19 Crystal Lake Central 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 @ McHenry* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 3 @ Dundee-Crown* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 10 Huntley* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 Jacobs* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 26 Cary-Grove* 7:15 p.m. * – FVC Valley Division game – Joe Stevenson joestevenson@shawmedia.com

McHENRY: FVC VALLEY DIVISION Quick hits

Drill that stands out

Coach: Dave D’Angelo (third season, 5-13) 2013 record: 2-7 overall, 0-6 FVC Valley (seventh place) Fast fact: After making the playoffs for 20 consecDave utive seasons, McHenry D’Angelo has failed to make the playoffs the past six seasons.

In preparation for kickoffs, four lines of players line up. For the first 15 yards, they sprint to the first tackling dummy and use a quick move to get around it. After that, they advance about 10 yards where they are met by a player with a pad, on this one the player must break down, extend his arms to find the ball carrier. Upon finding him, the tackler must take the right angle and wrap up the ball carrier.

Scouting report • McHenry enters its third season under D’Angelo, who believes that his system and philosophy will begin to show itself this year. “Usually it takes three or four years to build something,” he said. “Because we have had success with the underclassmen, putting these three classes together, they mesh really well.” • McHenry returns its Mike Briscoe starting quarterback from last season, Mike Briscoe, who threw for 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. “The last 30 years, we’ve probably had three returning quarterbacks, so it’s a great plus and he’s a real good leader,” D’Angelo

Schedule

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

McHenry sophomore Giovanni Purpura carries the ball during practice Aug. 14 at McCracken Field in McHenry. said. “He’s like having a coach on the field.” • Although D’Angelo will focus mainly on the offensive side of the ball, he said there has been an increased emphasis on the defensive side this offseason. “We have to put our best athletes on defense, and that’s what we intend to do,” he said.

• D’Angelo said that this is the best group of skill players McHenry has had in 30 years. Among those skill players are Mikie Borst, Scott Marunde, Jack Machometa and Giovanni Purpura. “We’re very deep in the skill position,” D’Angelo said. “We’re going to be fast on both sides of the ball.”

Date Opponent Time Aug. 30 @ Larkin 1:30 p.m. Sept. 5 Marian Central 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 Dekalb 7:15 p.m. Sept. 19 @ Woodstock 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 Crystal Lake South* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 4 @ Cary-Grove* 1 p.m. Oct. 10 @ Dundee-Crown* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 @ Huntley* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 Jacobs* 7:15 p.m. * – FVC Valley Division game – Jacob Sheyko jsheyko@shawmedia.com

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JACOBS: FVC VALLEY DIVISION

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

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14 Quick hits

a gamebreaker at any time.” • Look for junior twins Mat and Sean Barnes to step up at linebacker and running back and receivers Kyle Copeland and Nathan Meland to emerge this season.

Coach: Bill Mitz (fifth season, 25-15) 2013 record: 7-3 overall, 6-0 FVC Valley Fast fact: Jacobs made the playoffs in each of Mitz’s first four seasons as Bill Mitz coach. Mitz, who coached for 28 years at Stevenson, has made the postseason in 29 of 30 seasons.

Drill that stands out

Scouting report • The Golden Eagles went undefeated in the Fox Valley Conference for the first time in school history last season on their way to the conference title. “It’s nice to be in the upper echelon with Cary-Grove and (Crystal Lake) South,” said Mitz, whose career coaching record stands at 222-113. “I think we’ve earned a lot of respect in the four years we’ve been here.” • Jacobs lost 18 seniors from last season’s team, most notably 2013 Northwest Herald Football Player of the Year Bret Mooney. The Class 7A all-state quarterback takes more than 2,500 all-purpose yards and 25 touchdowns (17 passing, eight rushing) with him to Colgate. Sophomore Chris Katrenick, a transfer from Marian Central, and junior

Michael Smart for Shaw Media

The Golden Eagles take conditioning seriously. To get into shape, they run “suicides” like you would see on the basketball court, only the football version is much more grueling. Players start at the goal line and run to the 5-yard line and back. Then to the 10-yard line and back. Then to the 15-yard line and back. They continue in 5-yard increments until they’ve made it all 100 yards.

Jacobs linemen practice moving the sled during football practice Aug. 11 at Jacobs High School in Algonquin.

Schedule

Brenden Heiss will battle for the starting job. • The Golden Eagles return 13 starters from last season, including three-year starters Nick Gierlak, Carson Shoemaker, Cody Ferencz, Jamal Wilson and Josh Walker. Add to that mix established senior receiver Camden McClain, who caught 32 passes for 421 yards and four touchdowns last season. “They’re a good nucleus right there,” Mitz said. • Jacobs is looking for a new playmaker to emerge with its quarterback and top receiver, Hunter Williams, gone.

Date Opponent Time Aug 29 @ Barrington 7 p.m. Sept. 5 St. Charles East 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 Whitney Young 7 p.m. Sept. 19 Grayslake Central* 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 Dundee-Crown* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 3 Huntley* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 @ Crystal Lake South* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 @ McHenry* 7:15 p.m. * – FVC Valley Division game

“It’s the next guy’s chance to step up,” Mitz said. “Is it Walker’s chance to step up? Is it McClain’s? Is it going to (Mat or Sean) Barnes? Is it going to be Katrenick? It could be Heiss. Who’s going to be that guy?” • Mitz acknowledge that the Golden Eagles could focus more on the ground game with running back Josh Walker, who accounted for more than 1,300 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns last season. “Walker is a very electric player,” Mitz said. “I’ve had a lot of really good players, but he’s

– Mike DeFabo, mdefabo@shawmedia.com

DUNDEE-CROWN: FVC VALLEY DIVISION Quick hits

four of five on the road.

Coach: Mike Steinhaus (first season) 2013 record: 6-4 overall, 3-3 FVC Valley (fifth place) Fast fact: Last fall, the Chargers made their first playoff appearance in 19 Mike years, losing in the Class Steinhaus 8A first round to Oak Park-River Forest, 35-13.

Drill that stands out Running backs need to be strong and aggressive, so Steinhaus has all backs gather for a fast-paced rushing drill. They line up and wait for their turn, while four teammates hold blocking pads. Each player holding a blocking pad receives a number. When a particular number is called out, the rusher launches himself into the pads and explodes forward. Then, the rusher retreats back to the middle before reacting to another called number, testing his reaction time and strength.

Scouting report • The Chargers were a run-heavy team in 2013, throwing only 50 passes. Steinhaus plans on utilizing senior QB Jeff Atherton’s abilities according to what is working during a game. “We’re going to do what wins us games, so if it means running the ball 45 times in a game, that’s what we’re going to do,” Jeff Atherton Steinhaus said. • Senior RB Caleb Parson returns to a Chargers backfield that collected more than 2,100 yards on the ground in 2013. Parson finished with 176 carries for 926 yards and 13 touchdowns. • Only six starters return from the 2013

Schedule Michael Smart for Shaw Media

Dundee-Crown alumnus and first-year coach Mike Steinhaus works with players on positioning during practice Aug. 12 in Carpentersville. playoff team, three from each side of the ball. “There’s a lot of turnover and we got a lot of juniors stepping up and that’s a good thing,” Steinhaus said. • Losing most of his starting core, Steinhaus feels the biggest improvement his team needs to make is picking up its intensity. “The speed and tempo are slower this year

compared to last year’s [team],” Steinhaus said. • Senior defensive backs Malik Dunner and Kiwaun Seals lead a defense that, in six wins, allowed an average of only 14 points a game. • The Chargers’ road schedule will be difficult again, as they travel to FVC Valley foes Jacobs, Cary-Grove and Huntley. DundeeCrown went 5-0 at home last year, but lost

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 @ Elgin 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 Streamwood 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 @ Morris 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 Prairie Ridge 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 @ Jacobs* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 3 Crystal Lake South* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 10 McHenry* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 @ Cary-Grove* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 @ Huntley* 7:15 p.m. * – FVC Valley Division game – Ryan Altman, sports@nwherald.com

HUNTLEY: FVC VALLEY DIVISION

John Hart

Jeremy Behnke (sr.), Zach Herbert (sr.), Chase Burkhart (sr.) and Tim McCloyn (jr.) all started last season. Dominic Swanson (jr.) started on the O-line last year and has been added to the rotation. Behind them, four linebackers – three of whom have starting experience – are competing for three positions.

Coach: John Hart (third season, 10-9) 2013 record: 4-5, 2-4 FVC Valley Fast fact: The Red Raiders lost four games by a touchdown or less last season.

Drill that stands out

Scouting report • After losing four games by a touchdown or less last season, the Red Raiders have adopted the acronym “FIST” – fast, intense, strong and tough. “We were four plays from not making the playoffs to maybe being the No. 2 seed,” Hart said. “I’ve never had that in 30 years to be that drastic.” • The Red Raiders graduated 28 seniors from last season’s team. They will be looking to replace the 1,181 yards and 12 touchdowns that running backs Mitchell Kawell and Jake Scalise produced on the ground, as well as the 1,320 yards and 15 touchdowns that quarterback Blake Jacobs passed for through the air. • Although the Red Raiders lose their quarterback, they return their top three receivers in Josh Esikiel (44 rec., 495 yds., 3 TDs in 2013), Kyle Kesul (22 rec., 195 yds., 2 TDs) and Brandon Altergott.

Gator ball: The Red Raiders form a big circle around the field. Two players go to the middle and line up in a 3-point stance. On a whistle, they fire out and try to pancake each other. The goal is to teach athletes to be aggressive, tough and fundamentally sound in their hitting.

Schedule

H. Rick Bamman – hbamman@shawmedia.com

Huntley defensive tackle Tyler Hart jumps off the line while participating in a drill during summer workouts July 7 in Huntley. “We feel like we’re pretty good there,” Hart said. • Who will throw to those receivers still is to be determined. Three QBs are competing for the job, with junior Anthony Binetti taking the first-team snaps. He sat out the second

half of last season with a broken elbow, but said it “feels stronger than ever now.” • Last season Huntley’s defense ranked near the top of the conference, allowing 18.9 points a game. The core of that squad returns this season. On the defensive line,

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 @ Bartlett 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 Elgin 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 Gary West (Ind.) 8 p.m. Sept. 19 Hampshire 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 @ Cary-Grove* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 3 @ Jacobs* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 10 @ Crystal Lake South* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 McHenry* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 Dundee-Crown* 7:15 p.m. * – FVC Valley Division game – Mike DeFabo, mdefabo@shawmedia.com

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Ruhland (6-4, 270) was one of the most sought-after linemen in Illinois before he committed to Notre Dame in the spring. He is a two-time Northwest Herald All-Area first-team selection and a devastating blocker in the Trojans’ triple-option offense.

Trevor Ruhland, Cary-Grove, Sr., OT

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PLAYER JOURNAL: BY SCOTT TOPOLE / CARY-GROVE OFFENSIVE LINEMAN

H. Rick Bamman file photo – hbamman@shawmedia.com

Cary-Grove offensive lineman Scott Topole (77) stands with teammates during last year’s season opener against Wheaton North. Topole returns for his senior season. and our tempo. Having this responsibility, we must keep the enthusiasm and always look to improve our practice tempo. We have to work harder and have a higher intensity level each and every day.

There is a quote in our weight room that says “There is no status quo, you either get better or worse.” – Unknown Author. That quote sums up exactly the mindset we must have when going to every practice – to be better

CARY-GROVE: FVC VALLEY DIVISION Quick hits

Hanselmann are DBs who may get some carries as well. Also coming back on defense are DL Ray DiMatteo, LB Travis Myerson and DBs George and Willie Hartke.

Coach: Brad Seaburg (fourth season, 28-8). 2013 record: 7-4 overall, 5-1 FVC Valley. Fast fact: C-G has the longest current playoff appearance streak in the Brad Seaburg area at 10 consecutive seasons. The Trojans are 24-9 in that stretch with seven quarterfinal appearances.

Drill that stands out Bama – It is a high-tempo drill geared for the offense where the players run through midline, inside veer and outside veer for the triple-option. Defensive players holds pads and work as the scout team, while offensive players are constantly moving. The drill often sets a tone for practice.

Scouting report • The Trojans return 17 starters from last year’s team, led by third-year starters Trevor Ruhland, Michael Gomez and Matt Sutherland, along with QB Jason Gregoire, who started last year and three games as a sophomore. • Ruhland (6-4, 270) is headed to Notre Dame. Ruhland and Gomez are both two-time Northwest Herald All-Area first-team selections. Gomez (6-0, 270) will play on both lines this season, Ruhland will play mostly offense, but will be used in some short-yardage situations on defense. C Scott Topole (6-5, 265) gives C-G another huge linemen. • FB Tyler Pennington rushed for 1,006 yards as a freshman and didn’t start until the fourth game. He sparked the offense in a big way and is bigger (5-11, 190) this season. Seaburg doesn’t want to use Pennington both ways,

Schedule Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Cary-Grove coach Brad Seaburg watches practice last month in Cary. The Trojans return 17 starters from last season’s team that went 7-4 overall, 5-1 in the FVC Valley. but the sophomore may play linebacker too. “We’re having a hard time finding linebackers,” Seaburg said. “I hope he doesn’t go both ways, we moved him around so much last year. He has real good instincts.” • Seaburg is the same way with Gomez, whose college position likely is on defense because of his height. He is one of the strongest players in the area and played some

tight end last year on offense. Gomez told Seaburg he liked offense better as a guard, so that’s where he will be. “He just buries kids,” Seaburg said. • Along with the three big linemen, WR Jimmy Freskos, RB Kevin Hughes and RB Zach McQuade are returning offensive starters. Freskos will move to TE. OL P.J. Bardgett saw some time last season. Sutherland and Larkin

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 Wheaton North 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 @ Lake Zurich 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 @ Grayslake North 7:15 p.m. Sept. 19 Woodstock North 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 Huntley* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 4 McHenry* 1 p.m. Oct. 10 @ Jacobs* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 Dundee-Crown* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 26 @ Crystal Lake South* 7:15 p.m. *–FVC Valley Division games

– Joe Stevenson, joestevenson@shawmedia.com

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

knows that working harder than our opponent every day is the only way we will achieve our goals this year. The offensive line sets the tone for the team’s work ethic each and every day. The team feeds off of our energy

than we were yesterday. When that attitude is ingrained in any organization, nothing can stop it from being successful. Having this maturity and focus in the way we practice is sometimes difficult to maintain, which is why we are extremely fortunate to have coaches who care so much that they will not let us give anything other than our very best. Nothing compares to the bond that our offensive line has developed. We succeed and fail based on our ability to execute as a unit. Being accountable to the rest of the line is what determines if we can perform as a unit instead of just being a guard, a center or a tackle. It has been an incredible experience being a part of this program and playing on the line. Playing football at Cary-Grove has taught me that in order to achieve your goals, nothing replaces real hard work. That is why I am proud to be a part of this program.

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laying the offensive line at Cary-Grove is unlike anything else I have ever been a part of. The amount of guidance and support we have from our coaches and our community gives us confidence and direction that we will carry on with us long after we are done Scott Topole playing football. Every day, I have the opportunity to run drills with and against some of the most talented and hardest-working linemen around. Going into my senior year at CaryGrove, I have seen that the coaching staff does not just settle with a talented player. The coaches will make sure each player works as hard as they possibly can so they develop all of their talents and abilities. Hard work is the center of our program and the root of our success. Everyone in our program

Kyle Grillot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; kgrillot@shawmedia.com

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Bahl (6-4, 210) completed 160 of 279 passes last season for an area-best 2,510 yards, with 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He will be a second-year starter for the Hurricanes and had a busy offseason, throwing for college coaches several times in the spring. He committed to NCAA Division I Miami (Ohio) in June.

Billy Bahl, Marian Central, Sr. QB

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PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

5 TO WATCH

Josh Walker, Jacobs, Sr., RB

Walker (5-6, 160) ran for 1,054 yards and 13 touchdowns for the Golden Eagles, who won the Fox Valley Conference Valley Division title. He is one of the area’s fastest players, with a 10.95 100-meter time in the track season, and was a Northwest Herald All-Area first-team selection.

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

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PLAYER JOURNAL: BY JOSH ESIKIEL / HUNTLEY WIDE RECEIVER

eing able to play the game of football is a blessing. Not everybody has the opportunity to play. And I feel like I play the best position in the game, wide receiver. Being a wideout isn’t easy. If you’re not mentally tough as a wide receiver, being able to show off your talents every Josh Esikiel game can be hard. There are times when you are tired and in your mind you think you can’t run another route, but you’ve got to fight through it. You must be able to run your routes hard every play to be able to get open and help your team. Being a wideout, you must have a certain swagger. You have to find your game. Whether it’s your speed, height or strength, you have to know what your strengths are and use those to your advantage. It might be route-running, play-making ability, being able to turn a 5-yard hitch into a 20-

see the things you did that were both good or bad. Another thing coach Naymola taught me is that everything you do as a wideout you have to do it with purpose, because what would be the point of doing it if you’re not giving it your all? Another thing we take pride in is how we look on the field. Like what kind of gloves and cleats you have this year. Some wear arm sleeves and all different kinds of stuff, because if you look good, you feel good. Some guys don’t care as much about their appearance and just focus on getting the job done. I personally like to look good, but try not to overdo it, as long as it doesn’t affect my play. That stuff doesn’t matter if you don’t work your tail off in the offseason. It takes commitment. You have to learn how Shaw Media file photo to get past your comfort zone Huntley wide receiver Josh Esikiel runs for extra yardage as he slips past Bartlett linebacker Jeff Mitchell and keep pushing. When you’re after catching a pass last season at Huntley. tired, you have to keep running your route as hard as possible the game. If your team needs 7 technique. Assistant coach yard gain. yards on third down, you got to or you’re not going to get the Mike Naymola always tells us Then, you have to have push that route to 8 yards to get ball. to take care of the little things quick feet and strength to be the first down. Watching film and big plays will come. able to get off the line, espeFriday nights are right is also a very important step Another thing receivers cially going against a physical around the corner and I feel in being a receiver, so you can must know is the situation of cornerback. You have to use like I’m ready.

PLAYER JOURNAL: BY NICK BRENGMAN / JOHNSBURG QUARTERBACK

laying quarterback, in my opinion, is one of the best positions on the football field. It is exciting to play a position where you get the ball on almost every play, nothing is more fun for a competitor than having the ball. There is a lot of responsibility in the position and therefore you have to be prepared both physically and mentally. On the physical side, I spend much of the offseason participating in speed and agility programs, 7-on-7 competition and quarterback camps to prepare for the next season. Also, for

me anyway, the weightroom is a special place. That is where the physical preparation begins, and if you want to be a successful athlete you need to spend a lot of time and put in a lot of effort here. I have always enjoyed weight training and, once you are in a game, you will Nick Brengman see how it pays off. The mental preparation comes from watching a lot of film on future opponents and studying the different

defenses we may face. A large part of playing quarterback is understanding the coach’s game plan for each opponent. The ability to run the offense according to plan and communicate with your coach during the game in order to execute and make changes on the run is critical to the success of the team in every game. Another important part of quarterbacking is team-building and preparation. We try, as a team, to make everyone comfortable with the playbook and knowing what each player’s responsibility is in order to

have a winning team. One of the ways we have done this is by getting together on our own time in the summer, at my home, where we run routes and go over plays to prepare for August workouts. This is a confidence-builder as well as we head into football season. Being a quarterback is the best position for me. I enjoy the pressure of the position and reading and reacting to the different defenses. Hopefully, if I make the right call, we will gain the yardage, score and then win. Our team feels confident going into the 2014 season.

PLAYER JOURNAL: BY JORDAN PLUMMER / WOODSTOCK NORTH FULLBACK

s a fullback in a triple-option offense, I have multiple responsibilities – carrying the ball, blocking for other backs, selling fake handoffs and occasionally catching a pass or two. Yards never come easy when you’re a fullback. Most of my runs are north and south, which means I have to go straight through all the big boys on the field. Since I don’t have much room to dance around defensive players, I have to be very aware of what my blockers are doing at all times and know where the holes in the line of scrimmage will be. Once I make it past the first wave

of defenders, it is my responsibility to break one tackle. If I do break the tackle, it usually results in a big play. Playing fullback in the triple-option means I get a lot of opportunities to carry the ball. On the downside, it also means I get Jordan tackled almost every Plummer single play because the defense doesn’t always know which of the three players have the ball. Because of the amount of carries, along with the number of hits I

take, I have to stay healthy and keep my body in the best shape I can. I have taken multiple strength and conditioning classes in school, as well as speed and agility training during the offseason. In addition to physical training, I also train mentally by spending hours watching film and trying to understand our opponent’s defense and figuring out what I do wrong on bad plays. I find changes I can make to turn 3-yard gains into touchdowns. Faking handoffs and blocking for our other running backs are probably my most important responsibilities.

Sometimes a good fake will freeze up a linebacker or free safety long enough to make it impossible for them to reach the running back. Ninety percent of my run plays are options and it is sort of hard for me to fake a handoff if I don’t know whether I will get the ball or not. As a solution, quarterback Jimmy Krenger and I have repped our quarterback-fullback mesh to the point where it is second nature to both of us. That helps because it gives him more time to make a good read and it gives me time to also look at the read and get a good idea of if it will be a give or a pull.

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5 TO WATCH

Malik Dunner, Dundee-Crown, Sr., RB-WR-DB

Dunner (5-11, 190) was a big-play man for the Chargers last season at running back, wide receiver, defensive back and on returns. Dunner had five touchdowns between offense and returns last season. He ran 10.97 in the 100 meters in track and committed to D-I Ball State this summer.

Kyle Grillot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; kgrillot@shawmedia.com

Ortner (6-0, 180) caught 79 passes for 1,360 yards, both area-bests, and 11 touchdowns last season. His 19-reception game against Huntley ties for third with four other players on the IHSA career record list. Two players are tied with 20. He was a Northwest Herald All-Area first-team pick.

Jack Ortner, CL Central, Sr., WR

5 TO WATCH

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

Preseason Northwest Herald All-Area team

PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Quarterback Billy Bahl, senior, Marian Central

Marian Central quarterback Billy Bahl is the consensus pick to be the area’s Offensive Player of the Year. Sarah Nader file photo - snader@shawmedia.com

Running back Josh Walker, senior, Jacobs Ryan Williams, senior, Crystal Lake Central Tyler Pennington, sophomore, Cary-Grove Wide receiver Jack Ortner, senior, Crystal Lake Central Josh Esikiel, senior, Huntley Offensive line Trevor Ruhland, senior, Cary-Grove Carson Shoemaker, senior, Jacobs Karl Rude, senior, Marian Central Chris Dolleton, senior, Prairie Ridge John Conroy, junior, Johnsburg Defensive line Michael Gomez, senior, Cary-Grove Alec Baron, senior, Crystal Lake Central Gavin Dineen, junior, Marian Central Josh Andrae, junior, Crystal Lake South

Defensive back Matt Sutherland, senior, Cary-Grove Malik Dunner, senior, Dundee-Crown Cody Ferencz, senior, Jacobs Brad Garber, senior, Crystal Lake Central Kicker Peyton Schneider, senior, Harvard – Compiled by Jon Styf jstyf@shawmedia.com

Sarah Nader file photo – snader@shawmedia.com

Cary-Grove running back Tyler Pennington is on the Preseason Northwest Herald All-Area team.

CONSENSUS PLAYER OF THE YEAR PICKS

Offensive Player of Year: Billy Bahl, Marian Central

Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Gomez, Cary-Grove

JON STYF Sports Editor FVC Valley champ: Cary-Grove FVC Valley MVP: Tyler Pennington, Cary-Grove FVC Fox champ: Prairie Ridge FVC Fox MVP: Titus Booker, Grayslake North BNC East champ: Genoa-Kingston BNC East MVP: Johnsburg’s Nick Brengman Longest playoff run: Cary-Grove Offensive Player of the Year: Tyler Pennington, Cary-Grove Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Gomez, Cary-Grove

CHRIS CASEY Sports writer FVC Valley champ: Jacobs FVC Valley MVP: Josh Walker, Jacobs FVC Fox champ: Prairie Ridge FVC Fox MVP: Titus Booker, Grayslake North BNC East champ: Harvard BNC East MVP: Peyton Schneider, Harvard Longest playoff run: Marian Central Offensive Player of the Year: Billy Bahl, Marian Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Gomez, Cary-Grove

MIKE DeFABO Sports writer FVC Valley champ: Cary-Grove FVC Valley MVP: Josh Walker, Jacobs FVC Fox champ: Crystal Lake Central FVC Fox MVP: Titus Booker, Grayslake North BNC East champ: Burlington Central BNC East MVP: Harvard’s Christian Kramer Longest playoff run: Cary-Grove Offensive Player of the Year: Billy Bahl, Marian Central Defensive Player of the Year: Malik Dunner, D-C

JOE STEVENSON Senior sports writer FVC Valley champ: Cary-Grove FVC Valley MVP: Trevor Ruhland, Cary-Grove FVC Fox champ: Prairie Ridge FVC Fox MVP: Ryan Williams, CL Central BNC East champ: Johnsburg BNC East MVP: Johnsburg’s Nick Brengman Longest playoff run: Cary-Grove Offensive Player of the Year: Billy Bahl, Marian Central Defensive Player of the Year: Malik Dunner, Dundee-Crown

JOEY KAUFMAN Sports writer FVC Valley champ: Cary-Grove FVC Valley MVP: Josh Walker, Jacobs FVC Fox champ: Grayslake North FVC Fox MVP: Titus Booker, Grayslake North BNC East champ: Genoa-Kingston BNC East MVP: Christian Kramer, Harvard Longest playoff run: Cary-Grove Offensive Player of the Year: Billy Bahl, Marian Central Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Gomez, Cary-Grove

LESTER JOHNSON MCS FVC Valley champ: Cary-Grove FVC Valley MVP: Josh Walker, Jacobs FVC Fox champ: Crystal Lake Central FVC Fox MVP: Titus Booker, Grayslake North BNC East champ: Genoa-Kingston BNC East MVP: Genoa-Kingston’s Griffin McNeal Longest playoff run: Cary-Grove Offensive Player of the Year: Trevor Ruhland, Cary-Grove Defensive Player of the Year: Zach Herbert, Huntley

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Linebacker Michael Hartlieb, senior, Marian Central Alex Gardeck, senior, Crystal Lake South Travis Myerson, junior, Cary-Grove

STAFF PREDICTIONS

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

Prairie Ridge’s Derreck Pearson (foreground, left) and Chris Dolleton take part in an offensive line drill during practice Aug. 13 in Crystal Lake. Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

FOX VALLEY CONFERENCE FOX DIVISION Players to watch Titus Booker, Grayslake North, RB, sr. Booker, an Indiana commit, might be the fastest player in the Fox Valley Conference, if not all of Illinois. At last spring’s Class 3A state meet, the speedy 6-foot, 182-pound back finished runner-up in the 100 meters at 10.64 seconds. He is expected to play in the secondary for the Hoosiers, but for now, he’s especially a threat on offense after rushing for 1,027 yards and 12 touchdowns last season.

Nick Mohlman, Hampshire, QB, sr. Mohlman (6-0, 180) stood among the area’s more efficient quarterbacks last fall, tossing 12 touchdowns to only three interceptions. He also proved instrumental in leading the Whip-Purs to the 5A state playoffs for the first time since 2008. His steady presence could lead them to their second consecutive postseason appearance, which would be a first since the mid-2000s.

The Wolves host the defending FVC Fox champion Tigers in early September in a matchup that could give either of the two division favorites an early leg up. It also marks their first meeting since the 2012 season.

Prairie Ridge, but they boast the return of nine starters, including some key skill position players and big linemen up front. Grayslake North The Knights have built their reputation on a dynamic offense after averaging almost 40 points per game last season and going over the 50-point mark twice. But they’ll need to shore up their defense after giving up an average of 27 points a game in conference play, including 56 and 35 in blowout losses to Prairie Ridge and Crystal Lake Central.

Woodstock at Woodstock North 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 The Woodstock schools begin Year 1 of their two-year farewell tour before leaving for the new Kishwaukee River Conference in Chris Dolleton, Prairie Ridge, OL-DL, sr. 2016. Although the two rivals combined for Granted, the senior lineman isn’t overly imjust three conference wins in 2013, a victory posing at 5-foot-8 and 220 pounds, but Dolleton could provide some early-season momenRyan Williams, Crystal Lake Central, RB, sr. Prairie Ridge has built a reputation as one of the area’s best tum to make the division race all the more Williams was among the top running backs in After three seasons in the FVC Valley, bodies up front. Last season, he paved a number competitive. the area last season, going for 1,045 yards and the Wolves slide over to the Fox, replacing of holes for the run-heavy Wolves, as leading 16 touchdowns on the ground. The 5-foot-11, Johnsburg, which left for the Big Northern rushers Brett Covalt, Brent Anderson and Zack Crystal Lake Central at Grayslake North 205-pounder is expected to shoulder the load Conference. Greenberg ran for 2,304 yards. 7:15 p.m. Oct. 5 again this season for the Tigers, who are reLast year’s Fox Division crown was decided, placing quarterback Kyle Lavand and his steady 2013 standings Jake Varys, Woodstock North, C, jr. more or less, in early October when the dose of production. A Northwest Herald all-area honorable menTigers blew past the Knights, 35-6, handing Conf. Overall tion selection last season, Varys started seven them their only division loss. This time, the Jack Ortner, Crystal Lake Central, WR, sr. Crystal Lake Central 6-0 8-2 games for the Thunder and should play an even game will be played in Lake County, where Last fall, Ortner (6-4, 180) led the area in reGrayslake North 5-1 7-3 bigger role this season, including snaps on the Grayslake North hopes a change of scenery ceptions with 79 and receiving yards with 1,360. Hampshire 4-2 6-4 defensive line. The 270-pounder is also one of can do the trick. The next closest in either category was Marian Grayslake Central 2-4 4-5 Central’s Brett Olson, who had 47 receptions for the larger players in the area. Woodstock 2-4 2-7 948 yards. His biggest game last season was in Top contenders Johnsburg 1-5 1-8 a seven-point win at Huntley, where he caught Pivotal games Woodstock North 1-5 1-8 19 passes, second most in a single game, acCrystal Lake Central cording to the IHSA. He was a Northwest Herald Crystal Lake Central at Prairie Ridge The Tigers’ defense of their Fox Division – Joey Kaufman All-Area first-team selection. 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 title gets a bit tougher with the addition of jkaufman@shawmedia.com

CRYSTAL LAKE CENTRAL: FVC FOX DIVISION

Matt Fralick

Coach: Matt Fralick (fifth season, 29-12) 2013 record: 8-2 overall, 6-0 FVC Fox (first place) Fast fact: The Tigers have reached the postseason each season since Fralick took over.

Drill that stands out The Tigers want to play fast – up-tempo, no-huddle, run as many plays as possible. So, to condition themselves before the season, Fralick has his offense gather on the 15-yard line against one defense. After running a play, they sprint toward the other side of the field in six to eight seconds to face another defense. Then, the process repeats itself. The goal is to get off as many plays as possible in a 10-minute span, somewhere between 40 and 50. Eventually, over the course of training camp, they build up to 15 or 16 minutes.

Scouting report

Schedule Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

Crystal Lake Central players run sprints at the end of practice Aug. 14 at the high school. will rely heavily on returning running back Ryan Williams, who rushed for 1,045 and 16 touchdowns as a junior last fall. At 5-foot-11 and 205 pounds, he has pretty good size. Paving the way for him will be an offensive line led by right tackle Spencer Hobson, who has added 50 pounds since last season and is now 6-foot-3, 280. • 6-foot-1 defensive end Alec Baron anchors the defense, which also returns

athletic junior outside linebacker Shawn Kyska. Baron has also added 15-20 pounds this offseason. “We’re as fast and as strong as we’ve ever been,” Fralick said of his defense. Also bolstering the defensive side are linebacker Romeo McKnight and cornerback Marcus Rios, who will provide experience. • September will mark a challenging stretch for the Tigers. After hosting Grant in their season opener, they’ll go on the road for four con-

– Joey Kaufman, jkaufman@shawmedia.com

PRAIRIE RIDGE: FVC FOX DIVISION Quick hits

which routed them, 44-21, in the opener last season. “We’re going to know how good we are right away,” Schremp said. “We’re going to know what our strengths and weaknesses are. The good thing about playing a solid team like that, first game of the year, is you’ll know what you got.”

Coach: Chris Schremp (12th season, 87-44) 2013 record: 7-5 overall, 3-3 (tied for third in the FVC Valley) Fast fact: The last time the Wolves competed in Chris Schremp the Fox Division was 2010 when they went 6-0, finishing one game ahead of Crystal Lake Central.

Drill that stands out For a team that uses the Wing-T option offense, handoffs are especially important. Covalt and Annen often stay late after practice to work on technique. Depending on the play, the signal caller takes the snap, and hands off to a running back on a dive up the middle, or veers off toward the sideline.

Scouting report • Senior Brett Covalt is back under center, but whether he remains the starting quarterback remains to be seen, as junior Luke Annen pushes to take over the reins. Covalt was the team’s leading rusher last fall, totaling 924 yards on the ground to go along with 16 rushing touchdowns. He only threw the ball 82 times. • Also returning to the backfield is wingback Brent Anderson, who rushed 715 yards and four touchdowns on 95 carries last season. He is joined by the speedy 5-foot-8 Nathan Griffin, who may be the team’s best overall back. • Chris Dolleton will become a rare two-way starter for Prairie Ridge, both at guard and on the defensive line. He’s one of just a handful of

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 Grant 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 @ Woodstock 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 @ Prairie Ridge 7:15 p.m. Sept. 19 @ Crystal Lake South 7:15 p.m. Sept. 26 @ Woodstock North 7:15p.m. Oct. 2 Grayslake North 7:15 p.m. Oct. 10 @ Champaign Centennial 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 Hampshire 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 Grayslake Central 7:15 p.m.

Schedule Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

Prairie Ridge’s Chris Eschweiler prepares to catch a pass during practice Aug. 13 at the high school in Crystal Lake. guys to do so under Schremp’s watch. “He’s probably our best all-around football player,” Schremp said. “Unbelievable technique. He’s probably the best offensive lineman I’ve ever had as far as technique.” And he’s only 5-foot-9, 220 pounds. “If he was 6-3, he’d be a Division I lineman,” Schremp added. • The secondary should be stout. Junior

free safety Jon Tiemen is back, relied upon to play deep in pass coverage and yet athletic enough to come up in order stop the run. Cornerback Jacob Reed started most of games last year, and is expected to line up opposite the team’s top receiver. • The Wolves kick off their season with a stiff test against Class 8A Niles Notre Dame,

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Niles Notre Dame Sept. 5 @ Grayslake Central Sept. 12 Crystal Lake Central Sept. 19 @ Dundee-Crown Sept. 26 @ Grayslake North Oct. 3 Woodstock Oct. 10 @ Hampshire Oct. 17 Woodstock North Oct. 24 @ Crete-Monee

Time 7:30 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

– Joey Kaufman

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

• Senior quarterback Matt DeCoste will be counted upon to replace Kyle Lavand, who threw for 2,311 yards and 21 touchdowns last season, second most in the area in each category behind Marian Central quarterback Billy Bahl. DeCoste is small at 5-foot-9 and 165 pounds, but he served as Lavand’s backup last season and provides experience. • Wide receiver Jack Ortner is coming off one of the best statistical seasons in area history. A Northwest Herald all-area first-team selection, he caught 79 passes for 1,360 yards and 11 touchdowns a year ago. “He runs great routes,” Fralick said. “He can change direction all in one motion. He doesn’t need to slow down. He has great hands to track the ball in the air. He’s a special receiver.” • With a new quarterback, the Tigers

25 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Quick hits

secutive Fox Valley Conference road games before their next home date in October.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

WOODSTOCK: FVC FOX DIVISION Quick hits

of seniors in John Kruse (49 receptions, 593 yards, three TDs), Shannon and Jack Fischbach, as well as sophomore newcomer Jacob Sumner. Mason Sutter and Justin Eisenmenger will play tight end. • Even with a 2-4 record in the FVC Fox last season, Beard expects his team to compete for a conference championship as they attempt to return to the postseason for the first time since 2009.

Coach: Steve Beard (12th season, 50-60) 2013 record: 2-7 overall, 2-4 FVC Fox (tied for 4th place) Fast fact: The Blue Streaks have missed the Steve Beard playoffs in four consecutive seasons for the first time since missing four in a row from 1992-95.

Drill that stands out

Scouting report • Beard said the strength of his team will come on the defensive side of the ball, but they need to improve heavily on blocking and tackling to be a top competitor in the FVC Fox. Five of Woodstock’s seven losses last season were by 10 points or more. • Despite losing one of their starting quarterbacks and top running back to graduation, the Blue Streaks return playmakers at the skills position, Beard said, including senior QB Jace Pohlman (73 for 131, 919 yards, eight TDs) and senior RB Alex Shannon (75 rushes, 398 yards, four TDs). One of the team’s top newcomers is junior QB Zach Cullum. • Woodstock figures to be tough up front and returns three offensive linemen, including junior Langdon Scott and seniors Devin Waryck and Marty Becker. In total, Woodstock returns 12 starters, but Beard

Tilt the seven-man blocking sled. Seven offensive blockers attempt to drive block and leverage the sled up so as to tilt the sled over.

Schedule

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

Woodstock junior offensive lineman Langdon Scott, a starter on the varsity last season, practices Aug. 12 in Woodstock. said the team’s depth will be tested. LB Gus Siebert (53 tackles, four sacks, three pass break ups, four interceptions) is the Streaks’

Date Opponent Aug. 29 @ Oswego East Sept. 5 Crystal Lake Central* Sept. 12 @ Woodstock North* Sept. 19 McHenry Sept. 26 Grayslake Central* Oct. 3 @ Prairie Ridge* Oct. 10 @ Grayslake North* Oct. 17 Champaign Central Oct. 24 @ Hampshire*

Time 7:30 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

*- FVC Fox Division game

top returning tackler from a year ago. • The Streaks will replace their top two receivers from last season with a mix

– Alex Kantecki akantecki@shawmedia.com

WOODSTOCK NORTH: FVC FOX DIVISION Quick hits

It’s mental, too.” • The Thunder attempted only 66 passes as a team last season. Returning senior QB Jimmy Krenger has shown improvement in practice with both his arm strength and accuracy, Schroeder said.

Coach: Jeff Schroeder (6th season, 17-31) 2013 record: 1-8 overall, 1-5 FVC Fox (6th place) Fast fact: Fourteen of Woodstock North’s 17 wins in school history came in Jeff Schroeder 2011 and 2012.

Drill that stands out Volunteer drill. The Thunder make a series of V’s with cones spread out at 5, 10 and 15 yards out and the running back runs a gauntlet through tacklers and blockers at each level.

Scouting report • The Thunder will rely on the legs of senior fullback Jordan Plummer (96, 686 yards) and junior RB Travis Busch. Schroeder likes the versatility and varying styles of his running backs. • Schroeder expects the Thunder to bounce back significantly from its sixth place finish in the FVC Fox, but won’t count wins: “We don’t ever try to think about how many games we’re going to win. Our goal is to compete at the highest level possible week in and week out.” • Senior nose tackle Cody Barnes, who was the first North wrestler in school history to make state, will anchor the Thunder’s defensive line. “We should be strong up front again,” Schroeder said. “We spent a lot of time in the weight room and will be more

Schedule

Kyle Grillot – kgrillot@shawmedia.com

Woodstock North senior wide receiver Chris Callahan listens to assistant coach Chris Jackowiak during practice Aug. 14 in Woodstock. physical. We need to be.” • Schroeder said the strength of his team will be its experience, with many returning starters on both sides of the ball, including

seniors Jake Britton and Brendan Domek on the offensive line. “The seniors will need to step up and show the younger players how we prepare for Fridays. It’s not all physical.

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Wauconda Sept. 5 @ Lakes Sept. 12 Woodstock* Sept. 19 @ Cary-Grove Sept. 26 Crystal Lake Central* Oct. 3 @ Hampshire* Oct. 10 Grayslake Central* Oct. 17 @ Prairie Ridge* Oct. 24 Grayslake North*

Time 7:15 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

*- FVC Fox Division game – Alex Kantecki

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Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

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HAMPSHIRE: FVC FOX DIVISION Quick hits

whatever reason that is,” Brasile said.

Coach: Mike Brasile (First season, 0-0) 2013 record: 6-4 overall, 4-2 FVC Fox Fast fact: First-year coach Brasile is no stranger to the Fox Valley ConferMike Brasile ence. He was a two-way starter for Woodstock’s 1997 Class 5A state championship team. He graduated in 1999.

Drill that stands out Kickoff drill. Divided up into five lanes on each side of the kicker, players sprint 25 yards to the first cone. Then they must break down and chop their feet until a coach points toward a bag. Depending on which bag is pointed to, players will sprint to that bag and huddle around it while chopping their feet until the next group kicks off. This drill teaches players to break down after a full sprint, find the ball carrier, then take a proper angle to them.

Scouting report • Hampshire is set to play its first season under a new head coach. Brasile spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach at Leyden. Before that he was an assistant at Woodstock for six years. • The Whip-Purs return starting quarterback Nick Mohlman for his senior season. Last year, Mohlman threw for 1,032 yards and 12 touchdowns. He threw only three interceptions. “That’s going to be the key: If our senior leaders can step up and bring everyone together, then we’re going in the right direction,” Brasile said. • Hampshire will have to replace running back Nick Kielbasa, who graduated. Last season, Kielbasa led the Fox Valley Conference with 1,205 rushing yards and 20

Schedule

Michael Smart – For Shaw Media

First-year Hampshire coach Mike Brasile watches over players doing agility drills during practice Aug. 12 at the high school in Hampshire. touchdowns. • Hampshire expects some changes on the offensive side of the ball. Defensively, the schemes should be similar to last year. “Offensively, we had a lot of learning,” Brasile said. “We brought some things from Woodstock and some things from Leyden that I think have jelled into a pretty good

offense.” • One hundred thirty kids have come out for the Hampshire football program, which is the most in school history. “I’ve had to order more helmets and more shoulder pads, and the community is really excited about the football program, as they have in the past, but there seems to be a little more energy now, for

GRAYSLAKE CENTRAL: FVC FOX DIVISION Quick hits Coach: Jason Schaal (0-0, first season) 2013 record: 4-5 Fast fact: Making his debut as a head coach, Schaal was the offensive and defensive line coach Jason Schaal at Grayslake Central a year ago. He also is the head softball coach for the Rams, juggling two sports as he aims to turn around the program.

Scouting report • Grayslake Central is shifting its philosophy on offense. The team, which ran a veer triple option, will run a spread offense with more three- and four-wide sets. Schaal, who has been primarily responsible for the defense most of his coaching career, will be calling the plays. Because of the change in scheme, playmakers Cam Schwartz and De’Juan Ali will see more time in the slot this season. The two seniors were the primary running backs featured in the triple option. • On defense, linebacker Billy Barrett is shifting over from the Will linebacker spot to the Mike, which is responsible for communicating the plays from the sideline. • Schaal said the defensive line will rely

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Burlington Central Sept. 5 Grayslake North* Sept. 12 @ Grayslake Central* Sept. 19 @ Huntley Sept. 26 @ Urbana Oct. 3 Woodstock North* Oct. 10 Prairie Ridge* Oct. 17 @ Crystal Lake Central* Oct. 24 Woodstock*

*- FVC Fox Division game

Time 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

– Jacob Sheyko sports@nwherald.com

GRAYSLAKE NORTH: FVC FOX DIVISION

more on speed since the graduation of the bigger seniors up front. Schaal expects to rotate about four to six players on the line. Grayslake Central runs a 3-4 scheme. • Jaron Armiger will primarily play defense this year. Armiger saw time at tight end last season, but Schaal said the new offense will see less sets featuring a tight end. Armiger will play outside linebacker. • Schaal said Grayslake Central hopes to finish in the top three of the FVC Fox. He pointed to the first three home games that will help establish the team’s confidence and get used to the offense during that time.

Quick hits

• On the defense side of the ball, Grayslake North has three transfers this year and a group Coach: Steve Wood (9th composed of mostly younger players. Mason McIntosh, a transfer from Gurnee Warren, is a season, 28-46) safety who should have an immediate impact. 2013 record: 7-3, 5-2 Wood said “he’s been a real blessing to be honFVC Fox (second place) Fast fact: After making est with you. We’re not sure what we would do without him at this point.” the playoffs for the past • Wood also said the “new anchor” two seasons, Grayslake defensive line should be much improved due North’s road to the Steve Wood to having more size. He’s looking at senior postseason will be more Jordan Suchowski, 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, difficult this season. The Knights will face to be a force upfront. three eight-win teams and two seven-win • Also new to the defense is Booker. The teams from a season ago. senior will be playing cornerback, the position he’ll most likely be playing at Indiana.

Scouting report

Schedule Date Opponent Aug. 29 Fenton Sept. 5 Prairie Ridge Sept. 12 Hampshire Sept 19 @ Jacobs Sept 26 @ Woodstock Oct 4 Danville Oct 10 @ Woodstock North Oct 17 Grayslake North Oct 24 @ Crystal Lake Central

*- FVC Fox Division game

Time 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 2 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

– Matthew Paras sports@nwherald.com

• In a fast-paced offense where the objective is to run a play every 12 to 15 seconds, running back Titus Booker will again be a focal point. Booker, who has committed to Indiana, rushed for 1,295 yards and 14 touchdowns last season despite a high ankle sprain. • Grayslake North has eight of 11 players on offense who saw major playing time a year ago. With Booker healthy, Wood expects quarterback Merrick Gentile to make a jump in his second year. Gentile, a junior, threw for 1,335 yards and ran for 1,031 yards as a sophomore. Wood said the threat of both players would help with the offense’s explosiveness.

Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 Lakes 7:15 p.m. Sept. 5 @ Hampshire* 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 Cary-Grove 7:15 p.m. Sept. 19 Normal Community West 7 p.m. Sept. 26 Prairie Ridge* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 2 @ Crystal Lake Central* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 10 Woodstock* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 17 @ Grayslake Central* 7:15 p.m. Oct. 24 @ Woodstock North* 7:15 p.m.

*- FVC Fox Division game

– Matthew Paras

BIG NORTHERN CONFERENCE EAST DIVISION

Top contenders

Christian Kramer, Harvard, RB, sr. Kramer (5-foot-6, 150), a three-year starter for the Hornets, was the area’s leading rusher last season with 1,290 yards on 183 attempts, including 13 touchdowns. The Northwest Herald All-Area first team member was a big reason for Harvard’s undefeated regular season and run to the Class 4A quarterfinals.

Genoa-Kingston If there is a team that area coaches are pointing at as maybe the top contender in the BNC East this year, it’s the Cogs. G-K was one narrow defeat to conference champions Harvard away from winning the title last year. Many of the top players are back and a filled roster make G-K a major threat this year.

Brad Boelkow, Richmond-Burton, RB, LB, sr. Boelkow will likely be the No. 1 back for a Rockets team that loves to run the ball. Boelkow (6-4, 190), who also plays linebacker for R-B, has speed and durability that led to 640 yards on 90 carries, including nine touchdowns, last season.

Johnsburg The level of competition may play a large role in Johnsburg’s return to the BNC East. After, for the most part, struggling in the Fox Valley Conference Fox Division, the Skyhawks face teams with closer enrollment numbers, which could lead to more success. Johnsburg has a three-year starting QB in Brengman and may go from a 25-game losing streak to instant contention this year.

John Conroy, Johnsburg, OL, DL, jr. Conroy, a three-year starter with the Skyhawks, will be the center point of the offensive line again this season. Conroy (5-11, 250) was a Northwest Herald honorable mention last season, and could play a big role in Johnsburg’s shift back to the BNC East. Peyton Schneider, Harvard, QB, K, sr. Schneider led his team to the Class 4A quarterfinals by throwing for 1,102 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Schneider (5-10, 150) should be given the chance to throw and run the ball more as Harvard transitions to the spread option this season. He was also an all-area second team representative as a kicker.

Quick hits Coach: Mike Maloney (third season, 1-17) 2013 record: 1-8 overall, 1-5 FVC Fox (tied sixth place) Fast fact: The Skyhawks broke a 25-game losing Mike Maloney streak that spanned four seasons when they defeated Woodstock North, 22-21, last year.

Scouting report • The Skyhawks are back in the Big Northern Conference this year. In 2006, they left the red division and joined the Fox Valley Conference. In the eight years since,

Daryl Quitalig – For Shaw Media

Johnsburg coach Mike Maloney takes snaps with his team during practice Aug. 11 in Johnsburg. The Skyhawks return to the BNC East this season. Kyle Gara, Marengo, LB, jr. Gara (5-10, 185) leads an experienced group of returning linebackers for the Marengo defense. Gara was an All-Area honorable mention as a sophomore, and will try to help the Indians improve on a one-win season a year ago. Nick Brengman, Johnsburg, QB, sr. A three-year starter, Brengman should be ready to improve on his 2013 stats that saw him throw for 1,167 yards and nine touchdowns. He also threw 11 interceptions, which will have to go down, if the Northwest Herald honorable mention is to lead the Skyhawks to the playoffs.

Pivotal games Harvard at Richmond-Burton 7 p.m. Sept. 12 The Hornets begin their BNC East defense

run against the Rockets. R-B will be looking for revenge after their 21-0 defeat to Harvard in the regular-season finale nearly cost them a shot at the playoffs. Richmond-Burton at Johnsburg 7 p.m. Sept. 26 The area rivals will face off as conference rivals this season in a game that could dictate a contender this year. The Rockets beat the Skyhawks in a nonconference game, 26-7, in last season’s opener. Genoa-Kingston at Harvard 7 p.m. Oct. 17 The team everyone has their eyes on as possible favorites for the 2014 season against the undefeated conference champions from a year ago. With only one regular-season week after this game, it could decide the conference champion yet again. Harvard beat G-K 22-21 last season.

Harvard Last season’s conference champions are down in numbers, changed their offense and have a new coach heading into the 2014 season, but that doesn’t mean they can’t repeat. Harvard lost a lot of seniors, but returns its two biggest offensive weapons in Schneider and Kramer, who will have to be excellent if the Hornets are to be in contention again.

2013 standings Conf. Overall Harvard 6-0 11-1 Genoa-Kingston 5-1 5-5 Richmond-Burton 3-3 5-5 Burlington Central 3-3 4-5 North Boone 3-3 4-5 Marengo 1-5 1-8 Rockford Christian 0-6 0-9 *Johnsburg (1-8, 1-5 FVC Fox) joins conference this season

– Kevin Meyer kmeyer@nwherald.com

JOHNSBURG: BNC EAST DIVISION they’ve posted a 26-50 record. • The Skyhawks have a three-year starter back in senior quarterback Nick Brengman. He threw for 1,167 yards, nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2013. His primary target will be senior Haden Franzen, who caught 30 passes for 386 yards and a touchdown last year. • Junior John Conroy, another three-year starter, anchors the offensive line. Two seniors will hold down the tackle spots in Sean Koeshall and EJ Hoffman, but the line is still an area of concern. “The offensive line getting that continuity early is important,” Maloney said. “This is the first time these five guys have been on the field all together.” • With six starters returning on defense, there are plenty of opportunities for newcomers to make their mark. This is especially true at linebacker, where three

sophomores are battling for starting spots: Riley Buchanan, Brandon Perez and Bryce Smith. • In his first two years, Maloney came in with the Skyhawks in the midst of a big losing streak. Even with that weight off his back, he said he doesn’t feel that much different going into this season. “I’d like to think we’re a hungry group,” he said. “I think we have more excitement surrounding the season, but I wouldn’t say we’re overly confident.”

Drill that stands out The Skyhawks have been working hard on their three defensive back system, since a lot of teams in their new conference utilize Wing-T and other run-oriented offenses.

Maloney said he’s got five players currently competing for those starting spots.

Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 @ Oregon 7 p.m. Sept. 5 @ Mendota 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Rockford Christian* 7 p.m. Sept. 19 @ North Boone* 7 p.m. Sept. 26 Richmond-Burton* 7 p.m. Oct. 3 @ Genoa-Kingston* 7 p.m. Oct. 10 Marengo* 7 p.m. Oct. 17 @ Burlington Central* 7 p.m. Oct. 24 Harvard* 7 p.m.

* – BNC East Division game – Luke Srodulski sports@nwherald.com

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Luke Brinkmann, Richmond-Burton, RB, sr. Brinkmann (5-9, 185) is one of the faster backs in the area and is dangerous in the open field. Brinkmann ran for 506 yards on 94 carries after missing a few games at the end of last season. He is also a threat receiving out of the backfield, where he had 10 catches for 275 yards, a 27.5 yards per catch average.

PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Players to watch

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

HARVARD: BNC EAST DIVISION Quick hits

mastered them? No way. We’re a long way from there.” • Saylor is impressed with sophomore Hunter Freres, who will start at safety and could get some time in the offensive backfield. “[Freres] doesn’t look like a sophomore,” Saylor said. “He’s picked up everything well and he’s physically very mature for a sophomore. He’s a special kid.”

Coach: Sean Saylor (first season). 2013 record: 11-1 overall, 6-0 BNC East. Fast fact: Former coach Tim Haak, an Illinois High School Football Coaches Sean Saylor Association Hall of Famer, retired after 29 seasons with a 173-108 career record.

Drill that stands out Hornets’ Nest: The drill is a four-on-four with three defensive players lined up faceto-face against three offensive blockers. There is a ballcarrier 4 yards behind the line and a defender 4 yards behind the line.

Scouting report • RB Christian Kramer is fast and shifty and has rushed for 2,240 yards in the past two seasons. Kramer ran for an area-best 1,290 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. • QB Peyton Schneider returns to start for a third season in the backfield with Kramer. Schneider threw for 1,102 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions last season. He completed 58.4 percent (80 for 137) of his passes. • Junior DE Zach Martin was a tough defender last season and returns to lead the defense. • Harvard lost a large portion of its teams and its starters to graduation. Saylor said last year’s senior class had 14, the same number of this year’s juniors and seniors combined. Numbers could be a problem as the Hornets have less than 20 players on

Schedule

Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Harvard sophomore Hunter Freres carries the ball during practice Aug. 11. Freres, a starting safety, also might see time in the offensive backfield, coach Sean Saylor said. their roster. • Saylor was pleased with the progress made in the new system over the summer. The Hornets will run a lot of one-back offense from a pistol set, giving Kramer

room to run and turning Schneider loose more than ever. “We wanted to get these things in and have a firm grasp over the summer,” Saylor said. “I feel confident in the kids understanding those things. Have we

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Rock Falls Sept. 5 @ Winnebago Sept. 12 @ Richmond-Burton Sept. 19 Burlington Central Sept. 26 Marengo Oct. 3 North Boone Oct. 10 @ Rockford Christian Oct. 17 Genoa-Kingston Oct. 26 @ Johnsburg *– BNC East Division game

Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

– Joe Stevenson joestevenson@shawmedia.com

From our team to yours... Best wishes Hornets for a successful 2014 season!

adno=0286370

MARENGO: BNC EAST DIVISION Coach: Matt Lynch (eighth season, 11-52) 2013 record: 1-8 overall, 1-5 BNC East (sixth place) Fast fact: Marengo has one winning season and one state playoff appearMatt Lynch ance in the past 16 years. The Indians finished 6-4 in 2004.

Drill that stands out The Indians focus a good amount of practice time on hip movement. Having fast, flexible hips is hugely important in being able to change directions quickly, particularly on defense, where they will deal with teams like Harvard that are a threat both on the ground and through the air.

Scouting report

Schedule

Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Marengo coach Matt Lynch talks with his players during practice July 30 in Marengo. Lynch said this year’s team is “more together than any other team I’ve ever had here.” selection Kyle Gara is the leader in the middle. • Despite having six starters back on both sides of the ball, Lynch said he doesn’t feel comfortable yet at any one position. There are a lot of questions to answer before the start of the season, but team chemistry is not one of them. “They truly like each other,” Lynch said.

“They’re more together than any other team I’ve ever had here. The cohesiveness is there between the juniors and seniors, and the willingness to come in and work is there.” • Only one team in the BNC East, Harvard, finished with more than five wins in 2013. Even so, Lynch had high praise for the tough-

– Luke Srodulski sports@nwherald.com

RICHMOND-BURTON: BNC EAST DIVISION Quick hits

starter but said both have similar strengths. • Last season, the Rockets struggled to finish drives in the red zone and struggled defensively at times. “We were a little disappointed in our defense last season. We have to give more effort and get better at execution to be successful,” Elder said.

Coach: Pat Elder (ninth season, 64-28) 2013 record: 5-5 overall, 3-3 BNC East (tie third place) Fast fact: Richmond-Burton has advanced to the Pat Elder playoffs for seven consecutive seasons, with a 13-7 postseason record over that span.

Drill that stands out Running backs timing drill. In the Wing-T offense, the backs are constantly in motion and with a new starting QB this year, timing will be a huge component. The drill had players in the formation working on both motion and ball-handling responsibilities that are crucial to the R-B offense.

Scouting report • The Rockets will be looking to improve on a season in which they narrowly made the Class 4A playoffs before going out in the first round to top-seeded Evergreen Park. The team was hit particularly hard by injuries late in the season that impacted what it could do. • If the Rockets make the playoffs for an eighth consecutive season, they will be doing so with a more inexperienced team. They return only two offensive starters and four defensive starters from last season. “We’ll be young, to say the least,” Elder said. “All you can do is try to improve and be better every day. Where we want to be is a long ways away, but we will keep working to get to that point.” • R-B will be returning two of its three leading rushers from last season. Brad Boelkow and Luke Brinkmann, who will both be seniors this season, combined to run for 1,146 yards on 184

Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 Byron 7 p.m. Sept. 5 Rock Falls 7:15 p.m. Sept. 12 @Genoa-Kingston* 7 p.m. Sept. 19 Richmond-Burton* 7 p.m. Sept. 26 @ Harvard* 7 p.m. Oct. 3 Burlington Central* 7 p.m. Oct. 10 @ Johnsburg* 7 p.m. Oct. 17 Rockford Christian* 7 p.m. Oct. 24 @ North Boone* 7 p.m. * – BNC East Division game

Schedule Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Richmond-Burton’s Brandon Kilcoyne (left) tries to stop Eric Guenther during practice July 24 in Richmond. attempts, including 13 touchdowns. Boelkow, who also plays linebacker, should see the majority of the carries. Brinkmann is a speedy back who can also be dangerous as a receiver out of the backfield. • The Rockets lost some of their important offensive players, including leading rusher Vince Battaglia and big offensive lineman Bryce Wagner. Expect Marshall Woodward, Tyler Talatian and Marcus Duha to take some

of Battaglia’s snaps this season. Elder believes his young linemen will progress as the season goes on. • The Rockets will have a new quarterback after Danny Rygiel graduated. R-B does not throw the ball often (Rygiel had only 47 pass attempts all last season), but it appears the role will come down to either junior Joey Horner or senior Codey Blanton. Elder is seeing how things go before making a final decision on the

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Roosevelt Sept. 5 Stillman Valley Sept. 12 Harvard* Sept. 19 @ Marengo* Sept. 26 @ Johnsburg* Oct. 3 Rockford Christian* Oct. 10 @ Burlington Central* Oct. 17 @ North Boone* Oct. 24 Genoa-Kingston* * – BNC East Division game

Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

– Kevin Meyer kmeyer@shawmedia.com

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

• Senior QB Ethan Walsweer will be under center for Marengo, and he’ll have several new targets out wide. While junior Craiton Nice returns, Lynch also expects newcomers Adam Roudabush and Weston Shepard to be large contributors at receiver. • The Indians have a lot of experience on the offensive line with the return of center Kwinn Velasquez, guards Ben Ryan and Erik Johns, and tackle Derek Caskey. They’ll be looking to pave the way for junior running back Jarrell Jackson. • Maybe the most experienced spot is linebacker. Seniors Jake Behnke and Dillon Csanda are back on the outside, while junior Northwest Herald All-Area honorable mention

31 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Quick hits

ness of the schedule. “We play in one of the toughest leagues in the state of Illinois,” he said. “Each week is a dogfight.”

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

EAST SUBURBAN CATHOLIC CONFERENCE Players to watch

Nazareth Academy The Roadrunners finished third in the ESCC last season but have many returning pieces, including five offensive linemen who are 6-foot3 or taller. They have five players with NCAA Division I or II offers, plus a handful of others with mild recruiting interest. With that much college potential, they have to be considered one of the favorites in the ESCC.

Nick Borgra, Joliet Catholic, RB, sr. Borgra (5-foot-11, 195) ran for 982 yards on 120 carries and scored 12 touchdowns in 2013, finishing fourth among ESCC running backs. He also received second-team all-conference honors. Billy Bahl, Marian Central, QB, sr. Bahl (6-4, 210), McHenry County’s leading passer, threw for 2,510 yards and recorded 32 total touchdowns (29 pass, 3 rush) for the Hurricanes last fall. The Miami (Ohio) commit also completed 57 percent (160-279) of his passes as a member of the Northwest Herald All-Area first-team. Jack Shutack, Nazareth, OT, sr. Shutack (6-6, 275) is a three-year starter for the Roadrunners and was a member of the 2013 ESCC first team. According to Rivals.com, Shutack is a 3-star recruit and has received a handful of NCAA Division-I offers, including Iowa State, Minnesota and Rutgers. Brad Sznajder, Benet Academy, RB, sr. Sznajder (5-9, 175) was a versatile figure for the Redwings, rushing for 833 yards on 124 carries, while averaging 6.7 yards a carry. He also had 13 catches for 180 yards.

Sarah Nader – snader@shawmedia.com

Marian Central running back Jarryd Cabusao will try to help replace the loss of Ephraim Lee to graduation. so winning could go a long way in deciding the 2014 ESCC champion.

able mention.

Pivotal games

Matt Darling, St. Viator, WR, sr. Darling (5--10, 170) caught 55 passes for 880 yards and 11 touchdowns for the Lions last fall. He was also an ESCC first team member and Daily Herald All-Area honoree.

Marian Central at Nazareth Academy 1 p.m. Sept. 20 Heading into Week 4 against one of the ESCC preseason favorites, this matchup will most likely be the Hurricanes’ first true test in the division. The last time Marian Central played Nazareth Academy was at George Harding Field in 2007, where the Hurricanes defeated the Roadrunners, 34-27, behind QB Jon Budmayr’s 440-yard, three-touchdown performance.

Karl Rude, Marian Central, OT, sr. Rude (6-3, 280) who protected Bahl as a junior, looks to lead an offensive line capable of paving the way for a team that gained more than 4,100 yards of total offense in 2013. Last fall, Rude was first-team All-Suburban Christian and received a Northwest Herald All-Area honor-

Joliet Catholic at Marian Central 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 The 2013 ESCC champions and 5A quarterfinalists visit George Harding Field for the first time. The Hilltoppers went 6-1 in conference play and 10-2 overall last season. This is the Hurricanes’ third conference game of the season,

St. Patrick at Marian Central 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 After two road games against conference opponents St. Viator and Carmel, the Hurricanes return home to wrap up their regular season against St. Patrick, which upset Joliet Catholic last year. This could be another game with big divisional and postseason implications.

Top contenders Joliet Catholic Joliet Catholic’s triple-option offense, led this season by Borgra, puts up big numbers almost each week, as they scored 35 or more points in all 10 wins last season. The Hilltoppers have also reached the state playoffs each year since 1997 and have won 13 state titles in program history.

Benet Academy Can the Redwings recover after losing twoyear starter at quarterback Jack Beneventi (3,800 yards, 27 TDs), who transferred to Fenwick? Brad Sznajder’s brother, Jack, who was a freshman starter for Benet’s sophomore team, enters camp as the new No. 1 QB. The Redwings’ sophomore team went undefeated in conference play last season, so it could make for a competitive varsity squad. Marian Central Even though the Hurricanes are new to the ESCC, coach Ed Brucker thinks their offense should thrive again. Defensively, the Hurricanes allowed 225 points last season, a figure Brucker wants to improve despite losing a couple of key defensive leaders, including Suburban Christian Blue Defensive Player of the Year Thomas Lesniewski.

2013 standings Conf. Overall Joliet Catholic 6-1 10-2 Marist 4-2 9-4 Nazareth 4-2 8-3 St. Patrick 4-2 7-4 Benet 3-3 7-4 Notre Dame 3-3 6-4 St. Viator 2-4 5-4 Carmel Catholic 2-5 2-7 Marian Catholic 0-6 2-7 Note: Marian Central joins ESCC this season – Ryan Altman

sports@nwherald.com

MARIAN CENTRAL: ESCC Quick hits Coach: Ed Brucker (12th season, 94-31) 2013 record: 8-3 overall, 3-2 Suburban Christian Blue (third place) Fast fact: The Hurricanes move from the Suburban Ed Brucker Christian Conference to the East Suburban Catholic Conference this season.

Scouting Report • Senior quarterback Billy Bahl, committed to Miami (Ohio), completed 57 percent of his passes in 2013, throwing 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He is a top quarterback to watch in the ESCC. • After losing many key pieces on offense,

including running back Ephraim Lee, Brucker is still comfortable with where the offense stands. Lee ran for 1,166 yards and 20 TDs on 174 carries. Behind Lee on the depth chart was junior Jarryd Cabusao, who ran for 212 yards and four touchdowns. • Brucker said junior Eric Rushke and senior Jordan Niemayer will fill the void left at wide receiver after losing all three leading receivers, Brett Olson, Tom Klinger and Tanner Spoden, who combined for 1,795 yards and 20 touchdowns. Niemayer has some varsity experience, catching 15 passes for 280 yards and five touchdowns last fall. • With Marian having to face many runheavy teams this year in a new conference, Brucker said having a strong defensive line will be key. “We have to be strong against the run,” Brucker said. “Our linebackers and defensive line are places we’re going to have to be solid.”

• Linebacker Michael Hartlieb (2 interceptions in 2013) replaces all-area LB Chris Daniels and defensive end Thomas Lesniewski, the 2013 SCC Blue Defensive Player of the Year, as a leader on the defense.

one another back at the same angle they started at, working on both the footwork and lateral movement Brucker wants to see. He said this drill also can involve tackling when full pads are worn.

Drill that stands out

Schedule

Being quick with your feet and making good decisions are important for every football player, so Brucker runs a nameless drill that he said “improves the players’ breakdown in the open field and determines who has good lateral movement.” The team is split into two groups on separate sides of the field, while each group is split into pairs. Each pair stands about 15 feet apart, facing each other, while waiting for the coach to yell “evens” or “odds”. Once the coach chooses “evens” or “odds,” the players rush at each other from an angle, trying to push

Date Opponent Aug. 29 Crystal Lake South Sept. 5 @ McHenry Sept. 12 Marian Catholic* Sept. 20 @ Nazareth* Sept. 26 Joliet Catholic* Oct. 3 Notre Dame* Oct. 10 @ St. Viator* Oct. 17 @ Carmel* Oct. 24 St. Patrick* * – ESCC game

Time 7 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

– Ryan Altman

ALDEN-HEBRON: NORTHEASTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE Coach: John Lalor (12th season, 80-38) 2013 record: 6-4, 6-3 NAC (fourth place) Fast fact: Alden-Hebron has made the playoffs 10 out of the past 11 seasons. John Lalor The Giants only missed the playoffs in the 2011 season during that span.

Drill that stands out Diamond Drill. In this drill, players face one-on-one matchups in which the defender attempts to keep the ball carrier from making a move and getting by them in the open field. The Giants struggled in the open field last season, so Lalor is trying to get his players to settle down their hips and make contact to wrap up. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a huge focus for the team. The players seem to enjoy it as well, as they tried to both make moves and stop their teammates from getting past them.

Scouting report

Michelle LaVigne â&#x20AC;&#x201C; For Shaw Media

Alden-Hebron coach John Lalor is hoping for a big season from speedy running back Josh Johnson (above), who will join Nate Peterson in the backfield. speed as long as he stays focused. â&#x20AC;˘ Other offensive threats include do-everything player Cody Nelson, whom Lalor is trying to give the ball to as much as possible. Nelson is athletic and will be used in several spots for the Giants. He had nine catches for 237 yards last year to lead A-H in receiving. Second-year starting quarterback Colten Cashmore also has looked sharper early in practice. â&#x20AC;˘ Because of a lack of size, the Giants will be implementing a new defensive strategy this

season. The team is moving to a 3-5-3, that will try to showcase its speed. Alec Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Halleran, who is moving to linebacker, and Marshall Glenn could have big years defensively. â&#x20AC;˘ Rockford Christian Life should be a strong opponent for the Giants this year out of the Northeastern Athletic Conference. Christian Life beat A-H, 56-0, last season, a loss that still stings the A-H players and coaches. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hope we are right there fighting at the top of the conference,â&#x20AC;? Lalor said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We definitely

Schedule Date Opponent Aug. 30 Christian Liberty* Sept. 6 @ Chicago Luther North* Sept. 12 @ Chicago Hope* Sept. 20 Rockford Christian Life* Sept. 26 @ Westminster Christian* Oct. 4 Mooseheart* Oct. 10 @ Hiawatha* Oct. 17 North Shore Country Day* Oct. 24 @ Ottawa Marquette* * â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NAC game

Time 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kevin Meyer kmeyer@shawmedia.com

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â&#x20AC;˘ Wednesday, August 27, 2014

â&#x20AC;˘ Alden-Hebron will have an experienced team this season, after losing only five seniors (three starters) from a team that made the Class 1A playoffs. The roster still has only 25 athletes on it, but most have played or been a starter for a few years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have pretty much everybody back,â&#x20AC;? Lalor said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These kids have had to step up and play as young guys, so they already have the experience. We are definitely faster and stronger than past seasons as well.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ One big loss was four-year player and leading rusher Nick Beck. Beck ran the ball 117 times for 656 yards last season as well as being the receiving yards record holder at A-H. â&#x20AC;˘ The Giants run the ball a bunch. Nate Peterson was the second-leading rusher for the Giants rushing for 647 yards on 123 attempts. He will be joined by Josh Johnson, a back Lalor believes could have a big year because of his

33 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

Quick hits

have the Christian Life game circled for this year after they put it to us pretty bad last year. People will know that when they play the Giants this year, it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easy.â&#x20AC;?

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Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

34 Fox Valley Conference Valley Division CARY-GROVE Coach: Brad Seaburg No. Player Pos. 4 Larkin Hanselmann RB-DB 5 Zack Forney DB-FB 6 John Cullen DB 7 Sean Cullen DB 8 Jake Johnson SE 9 Max Skol LB 10 Connor Leach QB-DB 11 John Sullivan QB 12 Jason Gregoire QB 14 Mitchell Lemke DB 15 Collin Walsh K 16 Kevin Pedersen LB 18 Erik Norberg TE 20 Matt Sutherland RB-DB 21 Zach McQuade RB-DB 22 Kyle Mueller DB 23 James Freskos TE 24 Nick Cruz DL 25 Justin Gunther RB 26 Kevin Hughes RB-DB 28 Kyle Pressley FB 29 Alec Haglund DB 30 Thor Halverson RB 31 Travis Myerson LB 32 Robert Gleeson TE 34 George Hartke TE-DB 35 Eric Lind FB-LB 36 Willie Hartke RB-DB 39 Tyler Pennington FB-LB 40 Jon Davison LB 41 Ben Getka DB 42 Thomas Emma DB 44 Zach Harvey FB 48 Justin Howland DL 50 Keith McCowan OL 51 Raymond DiMatteo DL 52 Daniel Montemurro OL 53 Kevin Moran LB 54 James Elliman DL 55 Brandon Howland DL 57 Trevor Ruhland OL-DL 59 Owen Henriques OL 60 Alex Prendergast DL 61 Michael McMullin OL 63 Peter Bardgett OL 67 Michael Gomez OL-DL 68 Zachary Cohen OL 70 Ty Bergeson OL-DL 74 Ross Bernier OL 77 Scotty Topole OL 82 Hayden Breig DL 84 Jake Clemment TE

Yr Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr.

CRYSTAL LAKE SOUTH Coach: Chuck Ahsmann No. Player Pos. 1 Andy Weber RB-LB 2 Payton Minogue QB 3 Tyler Baker WR-DB 6 Dan McSweeney RB-DB 7 Zach Schill RB-DB 10 Jimmy Collins QB-DB 11 Drew Murtaugh WR-LB 12 Alex Reich WR-DB 14 Hugh Hughes WR-DB 15 Tommy Berger WR-DB 16 Joe Moore WR-LB 17 Nathan Couzins WR-LB 19 Joey Ahsmann WR-DB 20 Frank Woods WR-DB 21 Corey Sheehan RB-DB 22 Kyle Bartusch RB-DB 23 Garrett Dziedzic WR-DB 24 Jarod Resh WR-LB 25 Noah Wisler WR-DB 26 Cam Pennino WR-DB 28 Blake Martel RB-DB 32 Scott Coughlin WR-LB

Yr Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr.

33 Zach Smith 34 Nick Coriaci 35 Dylan Sambrano 36 Sean FitzMaurice 37 Connor Swanson 43 Kyle Kesseler 47 A.J. Polizzi 48 Ty Staples 49 Josh Andrae 50 Nick Yokas 52 Cordel Breitenstein 54 Bubba Gardeck 55 Dylan Kornhauser 56 Quinn McCoy 57 Kenny Demann 60 Sean Frank 63 Niko Polizos 65 Buddy Gabric 66 Noah Safraniec 70 Steve Anchor 74 Kyle Loupee 75 Thomas Mroz 78 Kevin Amren 81 Mike Vasko 82 Jake Lawson 83 Ryley Krausen 86 Alex Schoenfeldt 88 Wes Buckner 94 Kevin Basgall 96 Roland Gastfield

RB-DB RB-LB RB-LB WR-DB RB-LB WR-DB RB-LB WR-LB TE-DE WR-LB OL-DL OL-LB OL-DL OL-LB OL-DL OL-DL OL-DL OL-DL OL-LB OL-DL OL-DL OL-DL OL-DL OL-DL WR-DB WR-DB WR-DB TE-DE OL-DL OL-DL

Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr.

DUNDEE-CROWN Coach: Mike Steinhaus No. Player Pos. Yr 1 Kiwaun Seals WR Sr. 2 Austin Garand WR Sr. 3 Nick Shydlowski WR Jr. 4 Alonzo Alvarado TE-OLB Sr. 5 Joey Flores DB Jr. 6 Caleb Parson RB Sr. 7 Zach Thelen OLB-TE Sr. 8 Christian Brunner DL Jr. 9 Ethan Wiles DB Jr. 10 Malik Dunner DB-RB Sr. 11 Matt Stevens DB Sr. 12 Jeff Atherton QB Sr. 13 Dustin Miller OLB Sr. 20 Pat Sprouse DB-QB Jr. 21 Nick Musielewicz DB-RB Jr. 22 David Hamelberg RB-DB Jr. 23 Nathan Murray WR Sr. 26 David Becker DB Sr. 28 Ray Turskey RB-DB Sr. 33 Joe Notarnicola RB Sr. 34 Brandon Brooks LB-RB Sr. 40 Jake Devincentis LB Jr. 44 Jarrod Raap LB Sr. 45 Zach Gathercoal LB-RB Jr. 46 Austin Merchut LB Jr. 50 Adam Darst LB Sr. 51 Alexis Mendez OL-DL Jr. 52 Tommy Koniewicz LB So. 53 Gage Efken OL So. 55 Albert Putlak DL-OL Jr. 57 Chris Trojanowski OL-DL Sr. 61 Andrew Rodriguez DL-OL Jr. 62 Grant Rumlow OL-LB Jr. 63 Joe Terry OL-DL Jr. 64 Brett Peters DL-OL Sr. 65 Christian Cuevas OL Jr. 67 Jon Lee OL-DL Sr. 69 Levi Zeigler DL Jr. 71 Josh Mosley OL-DL Jr. 72 Jhovanny Mora OL Jr. 76 Jake Kieltyka OL Jr. 77 Adam Melle OL Jr. 78 Derrick Nibbert OL Jr. 79 Jack O’Brien OL-DL Sr. 80 Jim Welzien WR-DB Jr. 84 Matt Michalski TE-LB Sr. 86 Matt Wiechmann TE-LB Jr. 88 Nathan Nash LB-TE Sr. 99 Christian Rodriguez DL Jr. Paul Herrera DL Sr.

HUNTLEY Coach: John Hart No. Player 1 Josh Esikiel 2 Anthony Bellantuono 3 Ryan Ford 4 Aaron Rutkowski 5 Tony Bucaro 6 Sean Patel 7 Keith Peotter 8 Sam Kunde 9 Charles Mecozzi 10 Donnie Young 11 Jason Cunningham 12 Eric Nehslen 13 Anthony Binetti 14 Jose Cortez 15 James Ambrose 17 Sina Balouch 19 Jonathan Alberts 20 Kyle Zender 21 Connor Boos 22 Vincenzo Arnier 23 Brandon Altergott 24 Anthony Luciano 25 Casey Haayer 27 Tyler Schulz 28 Royale Weatherspoon 29 Nolan Smith 30 Joseph Domingo 31 Luc Lopez 32 Benjamin Pfeifer 33 Ben Stevens 34 Zachary Peter 35 Tim Ryan 37 Joshua Steinhoff 39 Frank Krupiczowicz 40 Alec Newman 41 Zachary Flick 42 Alex Pertzborn 43 Brett Snyder 44 Jacob Witt 45 Cody Sargeant 46 Joe Boland 47 Anthony Grippo 49 Jacob Fish 50 Justus Wood 51 Pedro J Morado 53 Daniel Dennis 54 Matthew Brannan 54 Tyler Novak 55 Michael Walker 56 Nicholas Dennis 57 Tim McCloyn 58 Tyler Szekely 59 Chase Burkart 59 Zachary Horan 61 Matthew Stolpe 62 Tyler Dombrowski 63 Christian Thompson 64 Thomas Licata 65 Luke Scarbro 67 Jasin Garcia 69 Zachary Johnson 70 Luke Schmidt 71 Marcus LaPorta 72 Zack Vretenar 74 Liam Gannon 75 Kyle Witt 76 Tyler Kastner 77 Dominic Swanson 78 Andrew Pertzborn 79 James Wulf, IV 80 Jacob Rodgers 82 Chase Lowenstein 83 Brendan Barnes 84 Adam Horan 85 Daniel Frederick 86 Sean Farney 87 Chad Consiglio 89 Connor Sloth 90 Bryan Behrens 91 Tyler Larson 92 Jakub Koleczek 93 Justin Domingo

Pos. WR DB DB LB LB DB DL DB QB K RB WR QB DB QB LB K RB DB DB WR RB RB WR WR WR RB LB WR DB RB DB DB RB DB RB DB LB RB RB DB LB RB OL DL LB OL LB LB LB DL DB DL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR TE WR WR WR TE DL TE DL DL DL DL

Yr Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr Jr. Sr. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So.

94 Zach Herbert 95 Tyler Hartline 97 Jeremy Behnke 98 Thomas Benner 99 Armando Navarro

DL Sr. DL So. DL Sr. DL Jr. DL Sr.

JACOBS Coach: Bill Mitz No. Player 1 Josh Walker 2 Chris Katrenick 3 Camden McLain 5 Chris McBrayer 7 Kyle Copeland 10 Emilo Martinez 12 Sam Abu WR-DB 14 Ryan Wells QB 18 Brenden Heiss QB-LB 19 Nick Espe DL 20 Josh Yonker WR-DB 21 Cody Ferencz 22 Mat Barnes 23 Nathan Meland 24 Nick Gierlak 25 Adam Anyu 26 Nick Bartnik 27 Tony Orlando 30 Sean Barnes 31 Blake Tatgenhorst 32 Anthony Vana 33 Tyler Bartnik 34 Kyle Trousil 35 Colton Trina 36 Jack Hichew 40 Brendan Downing 41 Tom Tucker 42 Alex Bogdan 43 Davione Cooley 44 Bryce Pahl 46 Peter Dwyer 50 Brock Judson 51 Jeff Sidor 52 Matt Kuhns 53 Jack Golnick 54 Kevin Landmeier 56 Alex Boncoure 61 Munem Rizvi 63 Carson Shoemaker 64 Chris Smith 65 John Gorham 66 Jon Cieniewicz 67 Quinn Carolan 68 Bryan Giannone 70 Bryant Finkler 71 Ryan Novak 72 Tim Laubenstein 73 Julian Martinez 74 Colin Ceisel 75 Jimmy Wormsley 77 Mark Comstock 79 Tony Braglia 80 Casey Dennison 81 Bryant Porter 82 Spencer Helton 83 Kraeton Moll 86 Kyle Rominger 88 Jose Mestey 99 Jamal Wilson

Pos. Yr RB Sr. QB So. WR Sr. WR Sr. WR Jr. DB Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. DB Sr. RB-LB Jr. WR-DB Jr. WR-DB Sr. RB Sr. DB Sr. DL Sr. RB-LB Jr. LB Jr. DB Sr. DB Sr. DB Jr. TE-LB Sr. K Jr. OL-LB Sr. DB Jr. DB Jr. RB-LB Jr. WR-LB Jr. WR-DB Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr. LB Sr. OL-LB Jr. DL Jr. LB Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL Jr. OL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL Sr. OL-DL Fr. DL Jr. OL Sr. RB-LB Jr. WR-DB Jr. WR-DB Jr. DB Jr. LB Jr. DB Jr. DL Sr.

McHENRY Coach: Dave D’Angelo No. Player 1 Troy McClaughry 2 Efren Lemus 3 Alec Glauser 5 Riley Johnson 6 Scott Marunde 7 Dillon Hallin 8 Jack Machometa 10 Teddy Pitzen 12 Mike Briscoe 15 Kevin Szamlewski 17 Brandon Briscoe 18 Daniel Delgadillo 20 Giovanni Purpura

Pos. Yr TE-S Sr. QB-CB Sr. FB-CB Sr. WR-K Jr. WB-S Sr. WB-CB Jr. WB-CB Sr. WB-DE Sr. QB Sr. WR-S Jr. TE-CB Jr. WB-S Jr. TB-S So.

21 Brandon Gregory 22 Alex Csech 23 Julian Guajardo 25 Billy Loeding 30 Eric Faith 31 Marcus Mohr 32 Brandon Ahne 33 Agustin Andrade 36 Michael Maly 40 Samuel Pautz 43 Devin Fees 44 Steven Touhy 50 Chase Woods 51 Alex Scalzitti 52 Zach Sielck 54 William Spina 55 Enrique Silva 58 Jeremy Lambrecht 60 Nathan Breisch 61 Daniel Castellanos 62 Andrew Fugatt 63 Matthew Stanisz 64 Joshua Little 65 Andrew Wilkinson 66 Robert Keller 67 Andrey Escamilla 68 Zach Meckl 70 Brandon Paszternak 71 Ryan Etzkorn 75 Graham Waddington 78 Raymond Vohasek 81 Michael Mcinerney 82 Xavier James 83 Michael Oswald 84 Ray Balog 86 Mikie Borst

OL-LB Sr. TB-CB Sr. TB-NT Sr. FB-LB Sr. FB-LB Sr. FB-LB Sr. TB-CB Jr. FB-LB So. FB-LB Sr. FB-DL Jr. TE-S Jr. TB-LB Sr. G-LB Sr. G-LB Jr. G-LB Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr, OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL So. WR-S Jr. WR-S Jr. WR-CB Jr. WR-DL Jr. WR-CB Sr.

Fox Valley Conference Fox Division CRYSTAL LAKE CENTRAL Coach: Matt Fralick No. Player Pos. 1 Jack Ortner WR 4 Angelo Cozzola LB 5 Bradley Garber S 6 Aaron Sances S 7 Ryan Abraham DB 8 Marcus Rios CB 9 Matt Decoste QB 10 Kyle Oetjens QB 11 Michael Chen K 12 Kurt Smith WR 13 Mario McMinn WR-CB 15 Jeremy Hey CB 18 Justin Wagner WR 20 Michael Powers WR 22 Ryan Williams RB-LB 23 Alec Baron DE 24 Alan Pawlicki WR 26 Vinson May WR-LB 27 Matthew Krochmal LB 29 Jose Figueroa DE 31 Adam Evertsen RB 32 Nathan Wayne DT 34 Shawn Kyska LB 40 Fabian Mora DE 42 Cameron Davis DT 44 Keegan O’Donnell LB 46 Romeo McKnight LB 50 Bradley Carter OG 55 John Brown C 56 Nathan Munn OT 58 Charles McConnell OG 60 James Adams OT-DT 64 Greg Harmon OG 66 Karson Gilson OG 70 Alfredo Juarez DT 72 Nate Goss DT 75 Lavonta Davis OT 77 Spencer Hobson OT 80 Darian Singh WR 81 Robert McLeland WR 84 Jason MacAlpine WR 99 Joseph Vergara DT

Yr Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr.

WOODSTOCK Coach: Steve Beard No. Player Pos. Yr 2 Eli Kruse DB Jr. 7 Garrett Boyle DB Jr. 8 Jace Pohlman QB Sr. 10 Vannis Smith K Jr. 16 Zach Cullum QB Jr. 21 Tim Piquette DB Sr. 23 Travis Soltys LB Sr. 24 Eric Bell DB Sr. 25 Jacobs Sumner WR-DB So. 26 Alex Shannon RB-DB Sr. 30 Jamie Watson WR Jr. 32 Daniel Nattress RB Jr. 34 Nick Sundberg LB So. 36 Cameron Grisiola LB Sr. 42 Jon Elliott DE Sr. 43 Augustus Siebert RB-LB Sr. 45 Colton Ratkovic LB Sr. 47 Martin Halilaj LB Jr. 50 Nick Tribble DT Sr. 54 Jose Lopez DT Jr. 55 Vincent Maltese OL Jr. 58 Jared Skytte OL Sr. 59 Marty Becker OL-DL Sr. 61 Devanté Martyne DT Jr. 63 Dan Regna OL Jr. 66 Joey Speach OL Sr. 65 Zach Myers OL Sr. 71 Devin Warycjk OL-DL Sr. 73 Langdon Scott OL Jr. 76 Johnathon Michael DT Sr. 77 Jesus Hernandez-Lara DT So. 78 Alex Martenson OL Sr. 80 Sam Wright WR Jr. 81 Jack FIschbach WR Sr. 82 John Kruse WR-DB Sr. 85 Wyatt Yoder WR Jr. 87 Justyn Eisenmenger TE Jr. 88 Joe Kruse DB Sr. 89 Cole Richter WR Sr. WOODSTOCK NORTH Coach: Jeff Schroeder No. Player Pos. Yr 1 Chris Callahan WR-LB Sr. 2 Chris Nulle WR-DB-K Sr. 3 Jimmy Krenger QB-DB Sr. 7 Daniel Jewasinski WR-DB Jr. 10 Taylor Madson WR-DB Sr. 11 Marshall Coalson QB-DB Jr. 12 Christopher Niese K-P Sr. 16 Joe Miceli WR-LB Sr. 23 Sean Lagerstrom WR-DB Sr. 24 Jimmy Elsinger RB-DL Sr. 25 Travis Busch RB-DB Jr. 26 Benjamin Flores RB-LB Sr. 28 Jacob Schmitt RB-LB Jr. 33 Randall Kline RB-LB Jr. 34 Jordan Plummer RB-LB Sr. 37 Jeremy Haymond RB-LB Sr. 38 Thery Sims TE-DL Jr. 42 Brennen Ward WR-LB Jr. 44 Trent Liebmann RB-LB Sr. 48 Matt Kretowicz TE-LB Sr. 51 Logan Thomas OL-DL Sr. 52 Ethan Brandt OL-LB Jr. 55 Trevor Jensen OL-DL Sr. 56 Brendan Domek OL-LB Sr.

57 Jacob Varys 58 Wolfgang Kemp 60 Michael Valenti 66 Gilbert Krich 68 Alex Tapia 71 Skylar Shoemaker 75 Cruz Gomez 76 Jacob Britton 77 Cody Barnes 78 Zak Lampl 79 John Ison 80 Shawn Kinsey 81 Dalton Butts 83 Joseph Martelli 84 Jakob Brink 87 Jacob Peschke

OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Sr. OL-DL Jr. OL-DL Sr. WR-DB Sr. TE-DL Jr. WR-DB Jr. WR-DB Jr. WR-DB Sr.

Big Northern Conference East Division HARVARD Coach: Sean Saylor No. Name Pos. Yr 1 Austin Niemiesz TE-LB Jr. 2 Reiss Bielski WR-DB Jr. 3 Joe Quinn WR-DB Sr. 4 Christian Kramer RB-LB Sr. 8 Todd Lehman QB-DB Jr. 12 Peyton Schneider QB-DB Sr. 22 Hunter Freres RB-DB So. 23 Tyler Perkins TE-LB Jr. 34 Matt Rodriguez WR-DB Sr. 41 James Quinn RB-LB Sr. 50 Max Miller OL-DL Jr. 60 Zach Martin OL-DL Jr. 61 Bryton Crosby OL-DL Jr. 62 Mauricio Espain OL-DL Jr. 68 Louis Bouchette OL-DL Sr. 75 Easton Hall OL-DL Jr. 76 Kevin Vargas OL-DL Sr. 82 Lucas Schmidt TE-DL Sr. 85 Mason Thompson WR-DB Jr. JOHNSBURG Coach: Mike Maloney No. Name Pos. Yr 1 Blake Lemcke RB-CB So. 2 Bailey Stefka RB-LB Sr. 3 Dan Tylkowski WR Sr. 5 Nick Brengman QB-CB-P Sr. 6 Connor Bell WR-CB So. 7 Alex Peete RB-S So. 8 Andrew Calhoun K So. 9 Bryan Stockwell WR-FS Sr. 10 Riley Buchanan QB-OLB So. 11 Eric Wagner RB-DE Sr. 12 Brad Iverson FS-WR Sr. 14 Anthony Rittorno CB-RB Jr. 19 Austin Koontz WR-OLB Sr. 23 Jacob Blount CB Sr. 25 Branden Peshek LB-RB Sr. 28 Alec Siudak WR-CB So. 29 Chuck Curry OLB So. 30 Braden Helma CB-WR So. 31 Anthony Vallone LB Jr. 34 Bryce Smith RB-LB So. 40 Zach MacKenzie FB-LB Sr. 41 Aubrey Wuchter TE-LB So. 45 Riley Elliott CB So. 52 Mason Berger OL-DL So. 57 Jarrid Wagner LB-OL So. 66 John Conroy OL-DL Jr. 67 Branden Ackman OL-DL So. 68 Alex G. Lee OL-DL Jr. 70 Joe Moore OL-DL So. 71 Luke Hiller OL-DL So. 72 Blake Boyle OL-DL Jr. 75 Ericson J. Hoffman OL-DL Sr. 76 Sean Koeshall OL-DL Sr. 79 Dyllan Hess OL-DL So. 82 Bryce Jordan TE-DL So. 85 Haden Franzen WR-LB Sr. 93 Jared Carlson OL-DL So.

MARENGO Coach: Matt Lynch No. Name Pos. Yr 2 Michael Skorzewski WR-DB Jr. 3 Edillio Andrade WR-DB Sr. 4 Brandon Temple WR-DB Jr. 5 Joseph Mier RB-LB So. 7 Craiton Nice WR-DB Jr. 8 Ethan Walsweer QB-DB Sr. 9 Kurt McMackin QB-LB Jr. 12 Marc Bender WR-DB Sr. 15 Alex Knaak WR-DB Sr. 16 Colton Wightman TE-LB Jr. 20 Belemino Andrade-VillagomeTE-LB Jr. 21 Luke Langan WR-DB Sr. 22 Jarren Jackson RB-LB So. 23 Adam Roudabush WR-DB Jr. 25 Jesse Ramirez P Jr. 30 Conlin Lentz RB-LB Jr. 32 Danny Martinez RB-DB Jr. 33 Dakota Kissack RB-DB Sr. 34 Jarrell Jackson RB-DB Jr. 36 Jake Behnke RB-LB Sr. 40 Kyle Gara RB-LB Jr. 42 Dillon Csanda TE-LB Sr. 44 Drake Stravoplos FB-LB Jr. 48 Weston Shepard WR-DB Sr. 50 Erik Johns OL-DL Sr. 51 Derek Caskey OL-DL Sr. 52 Chase Bough OL-DL Jr. 55 Andrew Anderson OL-DL Jr. 56 Zac Lane OL-DL Jr. 59 Dylan Turner OL-DL Jr. 60 Kwinn Velasquez OL-DL Jr. 62 Hunter Richardson OL-DL Sr. 63 Mike Brunk OL-DL Sr. 68 Ben Ryan OL-DL Sr. 70 Justin D’Ambrosia OL-DL So. 72 Jarrett Burno OL-DL So. 75 Gabe Taylor OL-DL Sr. RICHMOND-BURTON Coach: Pat Elder No. Name Pos. Yr 5 Mike Dahlen RB-DB Jr. 6 Luke Brinkmann RB-DB Sr. 7 Codey Blanton QB-DB Sr. 8 Brad Boelkow RB-DB Sr. 9 Brandon Kilcoyne RB-DB-K Sr. 10 Joe Horner QB-DB Jr. 12 Carter Miller TE-DB Jr. 13 Ryan Dahlen RB-DB Jr. 15 Robert Heaney RB-DB Jr. 16 Eric Guenther RB-DB Jr. 19 Alec Weiland RB-DB Jr. 20 Tyler Talatian RB-LB Sr. 22 Marshall Woodward FB-LB Sr. 25 Riley Fritz RB-DB Jr. 28 Joe Wolfram RB-DB Jr. 31 James Powers RB-DB Jr. 32 Joe Dittmar FB-LB Jr. 34 Marcus Duda FB-DE Sr. 35 Steven Cotteau TE-LB Sr. 53 Tilak Patel G-LB Jr. 55 Matt Ferrero C-NG Jr. 57 Dustin Spence G-DT Sr. 60 Chad Autschbach G-NG Sr. 61 Brandon Ingalls T-DT Jr. 62 Ethan Sheedlo G-NG Sr. 64 William Zaremba T-DT Jr. 66 Alex Petersen G-DT Sr. 67 Jeremy Gallegos C-DT Jr. 70 Jason Hodgins T-DT Sr. 72 Ryan Curran T-DT Jr. 74 John Stasieczek T-DT Sr. 75 Fred Bush T-DT Jr. 77 Dalton Wagner T-DT So. 79 John Nelson T-DT Sr. 85 Reggie Banks TE-DE Jr. 88 Trevor Anderson TE-LB Jr.

East Suburban Catholic Conference MARIAN CENTRAL Coach: Ed Brucker No. Name Pos. Yr 2 Brendan Yarwood WR-DB Jr. 3 Kolton Rominski QB-DB Jr. 4 Eric Ruschke WR-DB Jr. 5 J.R. Budmayr QB Jr. 6 Billy Bahl QB Sr. 7 Johnny Churak WR-DB Sr. 8 Bailey Brown RB-WR-DB S r. 9 Mike Miceli RB-LB Jr. 10 Liam Stoll K Sr. 14 Bailey Nixon WR-DB Jr. 15 Luke Tegtman WR-DB Jr. 16 Jake Higgins K Jr. 18 Jacob Dehne WR-DB Sr. 19 Jordan Niemeyer WR-DB Sr. 20 Jake Tinkham WR-DB Jr. 21 Emitt Peisert RB-WR-DB J r. 22 Andrew Yerkes WR-DB Jr. 23 Jack Littner WR-DB Jr. 25 Jack Niemaszek RB-LB Jr. 26 Derrick RB-LB Jr. 28 Cole Bokowy WR-DB Sr. 34 Jarryd Cabusao RB-DB Sr. 35 Thomas Welch RB-LB Jr. 42 Colton Gregory FB-LB Sr. 43 Steven Wember TE-LB Sr. 44 Isaac McGuire TE-DE Jr. 45 Michael Hartlieb TE-LB Sr. 46 Mike Velazquez WR-DB Sr. 51 Sebastian Soliz RB-LB Sr. 53 Charles Hanlon OL-DL Sr. 55 Zeny Liubinskas OL-DL Sr. 57 Shane Kirwan OL-DL Sr. 58 John Slivka OL-DL Sr. 61 Max O’Halleran OL-DL Jr. 64 Andrew Darbro OL-DL Jr. 67 Nick Dioguardi OL-DL Jr. 71 Matt Crook OL-DL Jr. 72 Kyle Darbro OL-DL Jr. 74 Karl Rude OL-DL Sr. 76 Gavin Dineen OL-DL Jr. 77 Sam Gibson OL-DL Jr. 78 Connor Adamick OL-DL Jr. 79 Michael Gross OL-DL Jr. 81 Matt Ricchiuto TE-DE Sr. 84 Gerard Squires TE-DE Jr. Thomas Applegate OL-DL Jr.

Northeastern Athletic Conference Alden-Hebron Coach: John Lalor No. Name Pos. Yr 5 Colten Cashmore QB-LB Sr. 7 Cody Nelsen WR-DB Sr. 10 Kevin Mendoza-Ortiz WR-DB So. 14 John Judson QB-DB Sr. 21 Thomas Baldwin RB-DB Jr. 22 Nate Peterson RB-DB Sr. 28 Jordan Gricar RB-DB So. 31 Isaiah Johnson RB-LB Sr. 34 Josh Johnson RB-LB Jr. 36 Patrick Baldwin WR-DB Fr. 43 Trevor Redlin TE-DE Jr. 51 Marshall Glenn OL-LB Sr. 55 David Reiter OL-DL Fr. 56 Jacob Boehlen OL-DL Fr. 58 Alec O’Halleran OL-DL Sr. 61 Trent Redlin OL-DL Sr. 63 Taylor Glenn OL-DL Jr. 64 Kristian Rapa OL-DL Jr. 71 Mason Mindham OL-DL Fr. 73 Joel Angeles OL-DL So. 75 Aristotle Papanikolaou OL-DL Fr. 79 Shane Bieze OL-DL Jr. 82 Marcus Heaver TE-DL Sr. 84 Austin Stauss WR Jr. 88 Justin Steele WR-DB Fr.

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014

PRAIRIE RIDGE Coach: Chris Schremp No. Player Pos. Yr 1 Emmanuel Ebirim FB-DL So. 2 Samson Evans WR-QB Fr. 3 Nathan Griffin RB-DB Jr. 5 Matthew Lorenz OLB Jr. 7 J.D. Patterson WR-DB Sr. 10 Dean Brown FB Jr. 11 Luke Annen QB Jr. 14 Landis Mast WR Sr. 16 Matthew Henning OLB Jr. 18 Brett Covalt QB Sr. 22 Brent Anderson RB-OLB Sr. 23 Cole Brown RB-DB So. 24 Jacob Reid RB-DB Sr. 25 John Di Cecco ILB Sr. 26 Matthew Mohapp OLB Sr. 27 Nicholas Pilafas DB Jr. 28 Jonathan Tieman DB Jr. 29 Brogan OConnor ILB So. 33 David Faccone FB-ILB Jr. 36 Noah Cherry DL Jr. 41 Anthony Azzano DL Jr. 42 Parker Tomlin ILB Jr. 44 Nicholas Greenberg RB-DB Jr. 45 Connor Harrell ILB Jr. 50 David Nelsen OL-DL Jr. 52 Jacob Ommen ILB Fr. 54 Kyle Heinzmann OL Jr. 56 Terrell Sheridan DL Sr. 57 Robbie Palmquist OL-ILB Sr. 60 Daniel Papic OL Sr.

74 Chris Dolleton OL-DL Sr. 76 Derreck Pearson OL Jr. 77 Jeffrey Jenkins OL Fr. 78 Luke Ponga OL Jr. 79 Frank Andrzejewski OL-DL Jr. 80 Chris Eschweiler WR-K Sr. 83 Joe Perhats TE-ILB Fr. 87 Ryan Orr TE-OL Jr. 88 Seth Lehman TE Sr. 90 Daniel Brainerd DL Sr. Jimmy Dimitriou Jr. Derek Schafer Sr.

35 PREP FOOTBALL 2014 | Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com

HAMPSHIRE Coach: Mike Brasile No. Player Pos. Yr 2 Clayton Adriatico LB Sr. 3 Trey Schramm WR-LB Sr. 4 Matt Bridges WR Sr. 5 Mike Palazzolo LB Sr. 6 Vinny Mounivong LB Sr. 7 Devontae Johnson B-LB Sr. 8 Jake Manning WR-DB Jr. 9 Tre Hicks WR-DB Jr. 15 Tyler Fitzgerald WR Sr. 16 Nick Mohlman QB Sr. 20 Jose Hernandez K Sr. 21 Michael Kruse WR-DB Jr. 22 Jeremy Curran QB-LB Jr. 23 Nico Bennett WR-DB Sr. 24 Xavier Bennett WR Jr. 25 Josh Koch WR Sr. 30 Jared Lund DB Jr. 31 Phillip Wilkins WR Jr. 33 Nick See WR Jr. 34 Logan Fleury WR-DB Jr. 35 A.J. Rojo RB-DB Jr. 40 Matthew Kozina WR Jr. 42 Nick Seliga FB-DL Jr. 43 Anfernee Ward WR-DB Jr. 44 Mason Fleury RB-DB Sr. 45 Croy Seagren WR-DL Jr. 50 Andrew Buckwinkler OL-DL Jr. 51 Eric Bajorek OL-DL Jr. 52 Brenden Oleferchik OL-DL Jr. 53 Raul Aranda OL-DL Jr. 54 Devin Syavong OL-DL Jr. 55 Steven Brill OL-DL Jr. 56 Ramiro Conejo OL-DL Jr. 60 Gader Bulow OL-DL Sr. 61 Brent Enger OL-DL Sr. 62 Tyler Petrey OL-DL Jr. 64 Steven Kirkwood OL-DL Sr. 65 Allen Schane OL-DL Jr. 66 Nick Wojciechowski OL-DL Sr. 70 Payton Mull OL-DL Jr. 71 Matthew Kielbasa OL-DL Jr. 72 Chris Gaudaen OL-DL Jr. 73 Alec Wheeler OL-DL Jr. 74 Patrick Fleener OL-DL Sr. 76 Bobby Pearson OL-DL Jr. 77 John Jimenez OL-DL Jr.

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Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Wednesday, August 27, 2014

| PREP FOOTBALL 2014

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