Metro Suburban preview

Metro Suburban

Outlook: Defending champion Riverside-Brookfield returns 18 starters and hopes to confuse opponents with the new A-11 passing offense. Fenton is the top challenger.

Top Five Players (Ht., Wt., Yr.)

RT Francisco Ochoa, Fenton, 6-2, 260, Sr.

LB Mike Reginier, R-B 6-3, 210, Sr.

QB Billy VandeMerkt, R-B, 6-0, 175, Jr.

DE Billy Vermillion, R-B, 6-2, 240, Sr.

OG Jon Welninski, Ridgewood, 6-3, 295, Sr.

Quote: ‘‘We’re taking a gamble. It’s either the smartest thing I’ve ever done or it’s going to be the dumbest.”—R-B coach Otto Zeman, on his new offense

Did you know? Every team in the conference gave up more points than it scored in 2007.

Predicted finish:Riverside-Brookfield, Fenton, Ridgewood, Elmwood Park.