Interstate Eight Large football preview

Updated: August 20, 2011 6:15PM

INTERSTATE EIGHT LARGE

Outlook: Defending champ Sandwich is not a clear-cut favorite in a tight division. Herscher is likely to be strong again while Coal City and Plano could move up. Coal City QB Cody Onsen threw for 1,300 yards and 11 TDs last year.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB P.J. Crotty, Sandwich 5-8 140 Sr.

RB Joseph Jones, Plano 6-2 200 Sr.

QB Cody Onsen, Coal City 6-2 225 Sr.

WR Justin Ruckman, Herscher 6-5 180 Sr.

WR J.J. Witherow, Manteno 6-1 175 Sr.

Quote: “To me it’s always the returning conference champion (Sandwich) you’ve got to look out for. I don’t want to cut them any slack.’’ — Coal City coach Lenny Onsen.

Did you know? Plano’s Joseph Jones was Class 1A state champ last spring in the 110-meter hurdles. Plano started 2-0 last year, but was winless after Jones’ season-ending broken leg in the third game.

Predicted finish: Sandwich, Herscher, Coal City, Plano, Manteno, Peotone.

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