Football conference previews

Updated: August 22, 2011 12:53PM

ILLINI HEARTLAND

Outlook: Harper is looking to regain some of its old magic and Brooks is not that far away from becoming the good team it’s capable of being.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Ahmad Bradshaw, Brooks 5-11 175 Sr.

RB Antoryio Burton, Harper 5-11 185 Jr.

LB Ahkem Miller, Carver 6-3 230 Sr.

T Daquan Sain, Brooks 6-6 360 Sr.

DE Michael Stevenson, Harper 6-4 250 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘If we get tougher we can play with anybody.’’ — Brooks coach James Brown.

Did you know? Miller will choose Princeton over Harvard, Air Force and Colgate.

Predicted finish: Harper, Brooks, Carver, Hope, Collins, Senn.

LAND OF LINCOLN

Outlook: With no clear-cut favorite, give the edge to King’s Lonnie Williams and his 43 years of coaching experience. But Julian could be sneaky good. And will new Fenger coach Cassius Chambers (the son of Vocational’s Chuck Chambers) be as good as his dad?

Top five players

QB Darrien Boone, Fenger 5-10 190 Jr.

T Ramone Erby, King 6-2 275 Sr.

LB Demario Gilmore, Harlan 5-10 190 Jr.

QB Dae’ Shaun Hurley, Julian 6-1 185 Sr.

DB Demarlon Morris, Julian 6-1 180 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Darrien Boone doesn’t have to take a back seat to any quarterback in the city; he’s all a new coach would ask for.’’ — Fenger coach Cassius Chambers.

Did you know? Hurley —who is one of the best quarterbacks in the area — was at Morgan Park last year, as were Julian head coach Terry Alexander and five of his assistants.

Predicted finish: King, Julian, Harlan, Fenger, Raby, Clark.

PRAIRIE STATE

Outlook: All eyes will be on Morgan Park to see how new coach Jeremy Gold fares after the forced departure of veteran coach Lexie Spurlock. Robeson should make things interesting in its first year in the Prairie State and Hubbard is always strong.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

TE Mikhail Dubose, Hubbard 6-4 230 Sr.

OG Mario Jones, Hubbard 6-3 270 Sr.

RB Jamal McDowell, Orr 5-11 180 Sr.

QB Jarvis Wright, Robeson 5-11 175 Sr.

QB Quincy Skanes, Hubbard 5-10 180 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘This group is as hard-working as any group I¹ve had, plus they like each other.’’ — Hubbard coach Elton Harris.

Did you know? Robeson running back Devon Sanders was named MVP at Tom Lemming’s junior ranked camp this summer.

Predicted Finish: Hubbard, Robeson, Morgan Park, Orr, Bogan, Amundsen.

ILLINI RED BIRD

Outlook: Curie is the defending Public League champion, but 2010 Class 7A quarterfinalist Simeon is the people’s champion. Something has to give when they meet. The conference is competitive from top to bottom.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

T Jordan Diamond, Simeon 6-6 320 Sr.

QB Maurice Fleming, Curie 5-11 185 Sr.

QB Robert Gregory, Simeon 6-3 190 Sr.

QB Darvell Harris, Dunbar 6-4 205 Sr.

LB Shaquille Joyner, Simeon 6-1 230 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Simeon is the team to beat in our conference and our young players will have to grow up quick.’’ — Curie coach Tyson LeBlanc.

Did you know? Gregory and Diamond have been recruited by every Big Ten school and they are also being sought after by Miami, Florida State, Alabama, Oregon and Auburn.

Predicted finish: Simeon, Curie, Dunbar, Young, Lane, Vocational.

BIG SHOULDERS

Outlook: With nine defensive players among 13 returning starters, senior-laden Taft is the favorite over Foreman and Clemente. Schurz is the darkhorse team with 15 returning starters.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OT Johnny Daniels, Foreman 6-5 250 Jr.

DT Sasquel Exum, Schurz 6-3 280 Sr.

LB Paul Masnica, Taft 5-11 185 Sr.

LB Jarell Smith, Mather 5-11 240 Sr.

QB Michael Harris, Steinmetz 5-10 170 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Teams better be able to cover against us because our kid (Sergio Serrano) can really throw it.’’ — Foreman coach Peter Grazzini.

Did you know? Prosser basketball coach Jeff Bates stepped down to become the school’s new football coach.

Predicted finish: Taft, Clemente, Foreman, Schurz, Prosser, Mather, Lincoln Park, Steinmetz.

GREAT LAKES

Outlook: Payton returns 15 starters, including its entire offensive line and a talented core of skill players, giving the Grizzlies the edge over Westinghouse, Ag. Science and Lindblom.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Eugenio DeJesus, Westinghouse 6-5 175 Jr.

DE Dequence Goodman, Bowen 6-4 225 Sr.

QB Marquis Richards, Phoenix 6-0 170 Sr.

RB Jarvis Robinson, Phillips 6-0 175 Sr.

RB Justin Smith, Payton 5-9 190 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Our seniors aren’t just good, they’re smart, with an average ACT score of 29.’’ — Payton coach Anthony Faltin.

Did you know? Dyett’s athletic facilities were renovated and upgraded as part of the ESPN national makeover show, ‘Rise Up.’

Predicted finish: Payton, Westinghouse, Ag. Science, Lindblom, Bowen, Dyett, Phillips, Phoenix.

SECOND CITY

Outlook: Featuring 29 returning players who saw playing time last year, Austin is the team to watch, closely followed by Kenwood and Uplift.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Jermaine Atkins, DuSable 6-2 185 Sr.

RB Marlon Buie, Douglass 5-8 160 Sr.

LB O’Daron Henderson, Austin 6-1 205 Jr.

WR Derrick Scott, Chicago Academy 6-4 180 Jr.

RB Rashid Williams, Uplift Prep-Eng. 5-10 180 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Watch out for Kenwood. They’re bringing in some coaches from some big-time programs, so you know they’re going to be teaching.’’ — Uplift coach Rick Alboyd.

Did you know? Austin coach Terry Carter had four players participate in the national underclassmen combine in Oklahoma.

Predicted finish: Austin, Kenwood, Uplift, DuSable, Kelly, Douglass, Chicago Academy, Urban Prep-Englewood.

WINDY CITY

Outlook: With 11 returning starters featuring dominant interior lines, Hyde Park has the advantage over Gage Park, Marshall and Manley. Perspectives-Calumet and TEAM Englewood are the dark horses.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

DT Tomas Aboyles, Little Village 6-2 240 Sr.

QB Dwayne Austin, South Shore 6-0 184 Sr.

QB Marquise Evans, Hyde Park 5-10 175 Sr.

DE Blake Spencer, TEAM Englewood 6-2 220 Sr.

QB Elijah Stokley, Persp.-Calumet 6-1 185 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘Our size and strength on the offensive line is going to give us a real advantage.’’ — Hyde Park coach Sean Streeter.

Did you know? Former Senn coach Jarve Lewis-Bay is the new coach of Marshall.

Predicted finish: Hyde Park, Gage Park, Marshall, TEAM Englewood, Manley, Perspectives-Calumet, Little Village, South Shore.

INTER-CITY

Outlook: As newer charter schools continue to expand their sports programs, the Inter-City continues to grow. This season, it’s up to four sections and 26 teams from three sections and 23 schools a year ago.

Top 10 players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Brian Carter, Kelvyn Park 5-10 177 Sr.

LB Mike Dangerfield, Lake View 5-8 200 Sr.

T Tyshawn Davis, Crane 6-1 260 Jr.

QB Joel Garcia, Farragut 6-1 170 Jr.

L Marcus Murphy, N. Lawndale 6-5 300 Sr.

CB Elijah Oduaau, Sullivan 5-9 140 Sr.

LB Xavier Posley, Crane 5-11 140 Jr.

RB Chris Williams, Bulls Prep 5-8 170 Jr.

CB Danzell Williams, N. Lawndale 5-10 185 Sr.

WR Marcellus Zee, Corliss 6-2 175 Sr.

Quote: ‘‘We are looking to return Sullivan back to the ‘glory’ years under Mike Pols. I’ve had two great mentors to show me how to do it the correct way, Mike Pols and Jerry Reed.’’ — Sullivan coach Vince Rociola.

Section alignments with predicted winners capitalized: Inter-City 1 — KELVYN PARK, Lake View, Marine, Roosevelt, Sullivan, Woodlawn; Inter-City 2 — Bronzeville, Corliss, Hirsch, Kennedy, NORTH LAWNDALE, Tilden, Washington; Inter-City 3 — Comer, Golder, Noble Street, PRITZKER, Rauner, Rowe-Clark, UIC Prep; Inter-City 4: Bulls Prep, CRANE, Farragut, Juarez, Muchin, Urban Prep-East Garfield.

Did you know? The entire Bulls Prep coaching staff has played college football and the team has over 60 players with no seniors.

BIG NORTHERN EAST

Outlook: Richmond-Burton went unbeaten in league play each of the past two years, but some key losses on both sides of the ball will make a third straight title tough for the Rockets as they try to fend off several teams knocking at the door.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB/LB Jack Dechow, Rich.-Bur. 6-0 190 Sr.

G/DT John Flood, Rich.-Bur. 6-2 215 Sr.

QB Trae Hoeske, Marengo 6-3 210 Sr.

WR/FS Collin Nolen, Harvard 5-11 170 Sr.

OL/DL Luke Schumacher, G-K 5-10 200 Sr.

Quote: “G-K coming to the East Division will change the dynamic of the league. Harvard, Central, North Boone and Marengo were all young a year ago and return many key players.” — Richmond-Burton coach Patrick Elder.

Did you know? Genoa-Kingston moves to the BNC East from the BNC West this year, replacing Hampshire, which left for the Fox Valley Conference.

Predicted finish: Richmond-Burton, Harvard, Burlington Central, Genoa-Kingston, Marengo, North Boone

CATHOLIC BLUE

Outlook: Experienced Mount Carmel, second in Class 8A last season, rates an edge over St. Rita and Loyola. Brother Rice should be improved and Providence will try to rebound from its first losing season (2-7) since 1980.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

LB Will McNamara, St. Rita 6-1 210 Sr.

RB Martez Walker, Brother Rice 5-10 190 Sr.

OT Ryan Ward, Providence 6-6 270 Sr.

QB Malcolm Weaver, Loyola 5-11 175 Sr.

RB/DB Brandon Greer, Mount Carmel 6-0 195 Sr.

Quote: “Our conference is about staying healthy. If you get banged up early, you can get knocked out of the race.” — St. Rita coach Todd Kuska.

Did you know? Mount Carmel coach Frank Lenti needs 12 wins to tie Gary Korhonen’s state record of 315 career victories.

Predicted finish: Mount Carmel, St. Rita, Loyola, Brother Rice, Providence.

CATHOLIC RED

Outlook: The regular-season champ won’t get an automatic berth in the state playoffs because the new division has only five schools. Leo will likely be the team to beat with St. Ignatius and Gordon Tech in pursuit.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

WR Willie Allen, Hales 6-4 215 Sr.

LB Hakeem Chatman, Leo 6-3 235 Sr.

RB Keith Harris, Leo 5-8 180 Sr.

WR Matt McCareins, St. Ignatius 6-4 200 Sr.

QB Julian Russell, Gordon Tech 5-10 175 Sr.

Quote: “We’ve got a veteran team coming back. We’ve got some good talent. We’re all smaller schools –it’s going to be balanced.” — Leo coach Michael Holmes

Did you know? Hales wide receiver Willie Allen was co-offensive MVP in the White Division last year. St. Ignatius linemen Joe Cunningham and Bill Lawrence were both all-conference.

Predicted finish: Leo, St. Ignatius, Gordon Tech, Hales, St. Joseph.

CATHOLIC WHITE

Outlook: Dropping down from the Blue, defending Prep Bowl champion Fenwick is the favorite in a conference where four teams could qualify for the state playoffs.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

DE Faith Ekakitie, Lake Forest Acad. 6-2 255 Sr.

OLB/RB Jack Stibich, Fenwick 6-4 220 Sr.

OT David Roney, Bishop McNamara 6-3 240 Sr.

OT Jared Philp, De La Salle 6-4 255 Sr.

QB Pat Hart, Fenwick 6-3 225 Jr.

Quote: “It will be way different in the White. We are playing some teams we haven’t seen for a while.” — Fenwick coach Joe DiCanio.

Did you know? Because it is an associate member of the IHSA, Lake Forest Academy is not eligible for the state playoffs.

Predicted finish: Fenwick, De La Salle, Bishop McNamara, St. Laurence, Lake Forest Academy.

CENTRAL SUBURBAN NORTH

Outlook: Glenbrook North figures to be the favorite after winning eight of 10 games in 2010. Deerfield and Highland Park will be searching for playoff berths, while Niles North hopes to improve on last year’s 3-6 campaign.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Oshayne Brown, Niles North 5-9 165 Sr.

WR Ross Chukerman, Highland Park 6-3 215 Sr.

OT Mike Ermel, Glenbrook North 6-4 275 Sr.

RB Jeremy Kritt, Deerfield 6-0 210 Sr.

RB Grant Rushing, Glenbrook North 6-0 205 Jr.

Quote: “I believe there will be a lot of parity in the conference this year, but you always have to look at Glenbrook North, Highland Park and Deerfield (as the favorites).” — Niles North coach Scott Smith.

Did you know? Glenbrook North returns both the 2010 CSL North offensive player of the year (Rushing) and the 2010 CSL North lineman of the year (Ermel). As the featured back, Rushing had 1,162 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

Predicted finish: Glenbrook North, Highland Park, Deerfield, Niles North, Maine West, Maine East.

CENTRAL SUBURBAN SOUTH

Outlook: With 10 league titles under coach Dave Inserra, Maine South still is the team to beat. But Mike Burzawa has Evanston on the upswing.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Matt Alviti, Maine South 6-1 175 Jr.

OL/DL Mike Demos, GB South 6-4 248 Sr.

TE/DL Leonard Garron, Evan. 6-4 200 Sr.

QB Jack Nykaza, New Trier 6-1 190 Sr.

QB Reggie Richter, Waukegan 6-3 205 Sr.

Quote: “I will continue to use what happened last year for years to come. It’s like, ‘Hey, let’s not have to learn the hard way again.’ Let’s learn our lessons before we get beat.” — Inserra, whose Hawks lost their first two games before winning their third state title in a row.

Did you know? Before Maine South’s run of 10 in a row, New Trier won three CSL South championships from 1998-2000. Evanston won the title in 1997.

Predicted finish: Maine South, Evanston, Glenbrook South, New Trier, Niles West, Waukegan

DUPAGE VALLEY

Outlook: With two-time defending conference champion Wheaton Warrenville South looking to reload after back-to-back Class 7A state crowns, the conference race could be more balanced.  

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Phil Jackson, Glenbard North 6-0 200 Sr.

RB Matt Randolph, Naperville Central 6-1 215 Sr.

ATH Dan Vitale, WW South 6-4 220 Sr.

LB Nick Krejci, Naperville North 6-0 225 Sr.

WR Nate Zinzer, West Aurora 5-4 140 Sr.

Quote: “I think there are five or six really good teams in our conference this year. It’s not as top heavy with Wheaton South, even though I think Wheaton South’s the favorite until you knock them off.” — Naperville North coach Sean Drendel.

Did you know? Glenbard East and West Aurora have new head coaches in John Walters and Nate Eimer, respectively.

Predicted finish: Wheaton Warrenville South, Glenbard North, Wheaton North, Naperville Central, Naperville North, Glenbard East, West Aurora, West Chicago.

EAST SUBURBAN CATHOLIC

Outlook: The opening week of the season, when Carmel plays at Joliet Catholic, will decide the conference title while there will be a logjam for third.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Jordan Kos, Carmel 5-11 195 Sr.

RB Malin Jones, Joliet Catholic 6-2 205 Sr.

RB Ty Isaac, Joliet Catholic 6-3 215 Jr.

DT Brian Canoy, St. Patrick 6-4 252 Sr.

S Ryan Meyer, Marist 6-4 190 Sr.

Quote: “I can’t think of a tougher opener or a tougher place to play.” — Carmel coach Andy Bitto.

Did you know? The conference has sent at least six of its members to the state playoffs in each of the last three years.

Predicted finish: Carmel, Joliet Catholic, Marist, Benet, Nazareth, St. Viator, St. Patrick, Marian Catholic, Notre Dame.

FOX VALLEY FOX

Outlook: Reigning champion Prairie Ridge moved to the FVC Valley, so a new team will rise to the top in the Fox Division. Crystal Lake Central looks ready to assume the throne, but both Grayslake schools could pose a challenge.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB AJ Fish, Grayslake North 6-3 165 Jr.

LB Anders Freund, Crystal Lake C. 5-9 180 Sr.

RB/OLB Gage Harrah, Crystal Lake C. 5-10 200 Sr.

QB Brian Loftin, Woodstock North 6-0 175 Jr.

RB Joel Valdivia, Grayslake Cent. 5-10 215 Sr.

Quote: “Crystal Lake Central has to be considered the best team in the conference until somebody knocks them off. Hampshire is new to the conference so they are unknown.” — Grayslake Central coach Matthew Bridges.

Did you know? Crystal Lake Central won only its second postseason game in 31 years when it beat Antioch in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs last season.

Predicted finish: Crystal Lake Central, Grayslake Central, Grayslake North, Woodstock North, Woodstock, Hampshire

FOX VALLEY VALLEY

Outlook: Powerhouses Cary-Grove and Crystal Lake South have company in the FVC Valley with Prairie Ridge moving into the division after back-to-back trips to the Class 6A state semifinals.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OL Tom Evans, Prairie Ridge 6-5 260 Sr.

FB Connor Greenwald, Prairie Ridge 6-2 195 Sr.

FB Patrick O’Malley, Cary-Grove 5-8 177 Jr.

WR/DB Brad Walovitch, Crystal L S. 5-11 175 Sr.

RB Caz Zyks, Jacobs 5-10 175 Sr.

Quote: “Having lost to the eventual state champion the last two years in the semifinals, our team is very motivated to take the next step and make it to the state championship.” — Prairie Ridge coach Chris Schremp

Did you know? Of the seven teams in the FVC Valley, all but McHenry and Prairie Ridge have hired a new coach in the past two years.

Predicted finish: Prairie Ridge, Cary-Grove, Crystal Lake South, Jacobs, Huntley, McHenry, Dundee-Crown.

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.

INTERSTATE EIGHT SMALL

Outlook: Wilmington is the favorite to make it four conference championships in a row, while Reed-Custer and Dwight introduce new head coaches. Seneca looks to get over the hump with a fifth win and playoff berth.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Nate Cagle, Seneca 5-6 165 Sr.

OT Cody Nicholson, Reed-Custer 6-3 240 Sr.

FB/LB Jayson Conlin, Wilmington 5-9 180 Sr.

QB Nick Saul, Lisle 6-3 175 Jr.

OL/DL Alex Peterson, Wilmington 5-9 225 Sr.

Quote: “No one puts more pressure on us than our coaching staff. We have higher expectations than anyone, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.” — Wilmington coach Jeff Reents.

Did you know? Seneca has increased its record by one win each year in the last three years. With one more win than last year, Seneca will have the five wins required for the playoffs.

Predicted finish: Wilmington, Lisle, Seneca, Reed-Custer, Westmont, Dwight.

METRO SUBURBAN

Outlook: New conference member Glenbard South returns 12 starters and assumes the favorite’s role, followed by Riverside-Brookfield, which welcomes back 15 starters.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OT Kyle Avaloy, Glenbard South 6-5 310 Sr.

LB Blake Beck, Riverside-Brookfield 6-2 205 Sr.

QB Joe Jacobsen, Ridgewood 6-2 200 Sr.

OT Freddie Joyner, Fenton 6-3 240 Sr.

RB Wesley Sanders, Glenbard South 5-10 185 Sr.

Quote: “At this point everybody in the league is racing to catch up to Glenbard South.” — Riverside-Brookfield coach Jason Rech.

Did you know? Longtime Riverside-Brookfield coach Otto Zeman is the new offensive coordinator at Fenton.

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

MID-SUBURBAN EAST

Outlook: Prospect and Rolling Meadows have dominated the division for the past several years, but both suffered heavy graduation losses and experienced changes at the top. The rest of the league should benefit.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Dejan Basara, Elk Grove 6-0 205 Sr.

QB Tyler Brady, Wheeling 5-11 175 Sr.

WR Artie Checchin, Rolling Meadows 6-2 186 Sr.

QB Sam Frasco, Prospect 5-10 160 Sr.

QB Richard Zirngibl, Buffalo Grove 5-11 175 Sr.

Quote: “I like my chances with Dejan Basara at quarterback. He doesn’t run around anyone like (last year’s quarterback Nick) Meyer, more like right through them.” — Elk Grove coach Brian Doll.

Did you know? Matt Mishler takes over as coach at Rolling Meadows while Mike Sebestyen succeeds Grant Pearlman and his three state titles at Prospect.

Predicted finish: Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove, Hersey, Wheeling, Prospect, Rolling Meadows.

MID-SUBURBAN WEST

Outlook: Barrington returns 10 starters from last year’s 7-3 playoff qualifier including QB Mark Bennett, RB/LB Chase Murdock, Wisconsin recruit Dan Voltz and Mason Darrow. But the Broncos must shore up a porous defense that allowed more than 20 points seven times in 2010.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OT Nick Loden, Fremd 6-1 265 Sr.

LB John Maevski, Conant 6-0 175 Sr.

LB Chase Murdock, Barrington 6-1 215 Sr.

TE Eric Saubert, Hoffman Estates 6-5 215 Sr.

OL Dan Voltz, Barrington 6-5 290 Sr.

Quote: “I think the question on everyone’s mind is how are we going to replace (Shepard) Little, (Mark) Ianotti, (Joe) Zolper and (Bob) Quilico?” — Schaumburg coach Mark Stilling.

Did you know? Fremd’s 5-9, 165-pound Sam Beutler took over at quarterback midway through the 2010 season and led the Vikings to the second round of the Class 8A playoffs – as a freshman.

Predicted finish: Barrington, Schaumburg, Fremd, Conant, Palatine, Hoffman Estates.

NORTH SUBURBAN LAKE

Outlook: Stevenson, Lake Zurich and Warren have been 1-2-3 in the league in some order for the last four years. Expect more of the same this season.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

DB Mike Shield, Lake Zurich 6-0 180 Sr.

LB Jack Lynn, Lake Zurich 6-3 210 Sr.

QB/K Matt Micucci, Stevenson 5-11 175 Sr.

LB Falaniko Paaloalo, Zion-Benton 6-2 255 Sr.

RB Owen Williams, Lake Forest 5-10 205 Sr.

Quote: “We will have to be well-prepared and play well every week to be in the running for the division championship.” — Stevenson coach Bill McNamara.

Did you know? A team from this league has played in a state championship game in six of the last nine seasons.

Predicted finish: Lake Zurich, Stevenson, Lake Forest, Warren, Zion-Benton, Libertvyille, Mundelein.

NORTH SUBURBAN PRAIRIE

Outlook: Any of four teams could finish first, with Grant rating an edge with a huge, experienced offensive line. Antioch and Lakes both have outstanding kickers.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

DT Quinton Quarles, Grant 6-3 225 Sr.

LB Jarrett Wood, Vernon Hills 6-4 215 Sr.

QB Arnold Shead, North Chicago 6-0 180 So.

OT Dan Pawlak, Lakes 6-5 265 Sr.

DE Sam Emanuelson, Antioch 6-2 245 Sr.

Quote: “I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about what we lost from last year and not enough about what we have coming back. Just because guys graduate doesn’t mean the winning tradition leaves with them. We’re still here.” — Vernon Hills coach Tony Monken.

Did you know? Vernon Hills has won its last 14 division games since a 38-35 loss to Antioch in October, 2008.

Predicted finish: Grant, Vernon Hills, Antioch, Lakes, North Chicago, Wauconda, Round Lake.

NORTHEASTERN ATHLETIC

Outlook: A deep and balanced conference. Expect both Rockford schools to fare well but many see Alden-Hebron as the team to beat, with Longwood playing the dark horse.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

DE Sean Chapman, Luther North 6-1 190 Sr.

QB Bryce Lalor, Alden-Hebron 6-2 165 Jr.

DB Kevin Frasure, Longwood 5-7 150 Sr.

LB Connor Schroeder, Alden-Hebron 5-11 170 Sr.

QB Steve Smith, North Shore 6-1 175 Sr.

Quote: “We cannot overlook Mooseheart or [Alden-]Hebron. They get the best out of their kids.” — North Shore coach Jim Deuble

Did you know? Hope Academy returns six freshmen starters from last season’s squad.

Predicted finish: Alden-Hebron, Rockford Christian, Longwood, Rockford Christian Life, North Shore, Hope Academy, Mooseheart, Luther North, Christian Liberty, Hiawatha

NORTHERN ILLINOIS BIG 12 EAST

Outlook: Defending champion Kaneland loses nearly every starter off its semifinal team while Morris brings back more than half of its starters. Sycamore and Rochelle are improving.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Ryan Bartels, Sycamore 6-4 210 Sr.

DL Sam Capello, Sycamore 6-1 205 Sr.

WR Quinn Buschbacher, Kaneland 5-10 175 Sr.

DL Jimmy Pelnarsh, Morris 6-3 270 Sr.

QB Austin Feeney, Morris 5-11 165 Sr.

Quote: “It is a very balanced league. Overall team health will determine if we are capable of winning the conference.” — Sycamore coach Joe Ryan.

Did you know? Hall of Fame coach Karl Hoinkes, who won state titles at Oswego in 1992 and 2003, returns to the sidelines for Yorkville.

Predicted finish: Morris, Sycamore, Kaneland, DeKalb, Rochelle, Yorkville.

SOUTH SUBURBAN BLUE

Outlook: The battle for the top spot should be a three-team race between Lemont, T.F. South and Oak Forest.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Giovanni Canty, T.F. South 180 6-0 Sr.

WB Tevin Coleman, Oak Forest 6-0 190 Sr.

OL Ethan Pocic, Lemont 6-7 285 Jr.

RB David Smith, Bremen 6-1 190 Sr.

QB Kyle Sheridan, Tinley Park 5-8 155 Sr.

Quote: “For us to be successful, Canty is going to need to do extremely well.” — T.F. South coach Tom Padjen.

Did you know? Oak Forest’s Coleman and Bremen’s Smith have been offered scholarships by multiple Big Ten schools.

Predicted finish: Lemont, T.F. South, Oak Forest, Bremen, Tinley Park, Hillcrest, T.F. North.

SOUTH SUBURBAN RED

Outlook: Richards remains the team to beat until proven otherwise, but as many as five teams could qualify for playoffs.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Victor Baker, Evergreen Park 6-0 185 Sr.

WR Davonta Corner, Richards 6-3 170 Sr.

QB Justin Geiter, Eisenhower 6-1 215 Sr.

WR Martice Weatherspoon, Shepard 6-3 200 Sr.

RB Anthony Doory, Reavis 5-10 190 Sr.

Quote: “Richards, Eisenhower and Evergreen Park are the top three teams. If we have some juniors step up, we hopefully can play with those three programs.” — Shepard coach Dominic Passolano.

Did you know? Argo coach Jim Innis is beginning his 24th season as head coach.

Predicted finish: Richards, Eisenhower, Shepard, Evergreen Park, Argo, Reavis, Oak Lawn.

SOUTHLAND

Outlook: Crete-Monee is the favorite, but the trio of District 227 schools — Rich East, Rich Central and Rich South — are ready to have a say.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Devonte Black, Rich Cent. 5-11 180 Sr.

RB Richard White, Rich East 5-10 175 Sr.

OL Austin Rosenfeldt, Crete-Monee 6-3 290 Jr.

CB Anthony Standifer, Crete-Monee 6-1 180 Sr.

OL Dakari Akorede, Rich South 6-3 350 Sr.

Quote: “We feel we have all the pieces to be competitive with all the teams on our schedule.” — Crete-Monee coach Jerry Verde.

Did you know? Crete-Monee’s Standifer has committed to Michigan.

Predicted finish: Crete-Monee, Rich East, Rich Central, Rich South, Kankakee, Bloom.

SOUTHWEST PRAIRIE

Outlook: The SPC could boast four playoff qualifiers this year and a host of potential college quarterbacks. Oswego’s offense is scary good and Minooka may pass more this year because of an addition to the coaching staff, former Lockport coach Bret Kooi. Plainfield South is under a new coach in Ken Bublitz and Plainfield North could surprise behind a young but strong and talented offensive line.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB/LB Perez Ford, Romeoville 6-2 210 Sr.

DL Alexander Hamilton, Minooka 6-1 220 Sr.

RB Kalvin Hill, Minooka 5-8 180 Sr.

QB Ryan West, Oswego 6-4 205 Sr.

WR Dantrell Wright, Plainfield S. 6-0 180 Sr.

Quote: “Ryan West and his group of talented receivers will have a great, great year. It will be tough if not impossible for anyone to stop them. If you’re going to beat them, you better be able to score a ton of points.” — Minooka coach Bert Kooi.

Did you know? Minooka offensive coordinator Bret Kooi was head coach at Lockport for 17 years and is the brother of Indians head coach Bert Kooi.

Predicted finish: Minooka, Oswego, Plainfield South, Plainfield North, Oswego East, Plainfield Central, Romeoville, Plainfield East

SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN BLUE

Outlook: Homewood-Flossmoor, which returns QB Tim Williams and a bevy of receivers from a Class 8A semifinal qualifier last season, is favored in a league that produced five playoff teams last year and could do so again.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OL Dan Feeney, Sandburg 6-4 303 Sr.

LB Brad Johnson, Lockport 6-2 215 Sr.

LB Antonio Morrison, Bolingbrook 6-2 230 Sr.

QB Tim Williams, H-F 6-6 210 Sr.

QB Blake Winkler, Lincoln-Way East 6-0 180 Sr.

Quote: “He’ll probably miss the first couple of games, but we’re going to take it slow,” — New Lockport coach Don McKillip on quarterback Billy Reed, who is currently out with a knee injury. Senior Kyle Smart will start in his place.

Did you know? Bolingbrook has not had a losing season since 1981 and has qualified for the playoffs the past 19 straight seasons.

Predicted finish: Homewood-Floosmoor, Lincoln-Way East, Bolingbrook, Lockport, Sandburg, Joliet West, Lincoln-Way Central, Joliet Central.

SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN RED

Outlook: With nine starters returning on defense, Thornton rates an edge over Lincoln-Way North in a league where seven teams posted at least four victories last season.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OL Jake Benson, Lincoln-Way West 6-2 220 Sr.

OT Charlie Dicola, Bradley-Bourb. 6-1 245 Sr.

OT Eric Knaperek, Lincoln-Way N. 6-1 268 Sr.

OL Jeff Myles, Thornton 6-3 275 Sr.

DE/TE Tyshon Waller, Thornton 6-3 230 Sr.

Quote: “Last year we had our most wins (four) in 10 years and we had an outstanding summer. I expect us to compete for the conference championship.” — Thornwood coach Wil Milhouse.

Did you know? Andrew (Jim Malec) and Bradley-Bourbonnais (Mike Kohl) both have new head coaches this season.

Predicted finish: Thornton, Lincoln-Way North, Lincoln-Way West, Thornwood, Andrew, Bradley-Bourbonnais, Thornridge, Stagg.

SUBURBAN CHRISTIAN BLUE

Outlook: The conference boasts the defending Class 5A champion (Montini) and Class 6A runner-up (Marmion) and adds last year’s Gold Division champion, St. Edward, to the mix. Montini WR Jordan Westerkamp is committed to Nebraska and St. Edward DT/OT Evan Finnane is drawing Big Ten interest.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OL Kyle Bosch, St. Francis 6-5 280 Sr.

RB/LB Luke Duffy, St. Edward 5-11 185 Sr.

DT/OT Evan Finnane, St. Edward 6-7 260 Sr.

OL/DL Ryan Glasgow, Marmion 6-4 270 Sr.

WR/DB Jordan Westerkamp, Montini 6-2 190 Sr.

Quote: “We won the Gold last year and are moving over to the Blue. We were very competitive with those teams in 2008 in the old Suburban Catholic Conference, so we hope to be competitive again.” — St. Edward coach Mike Rolando.

Did you know? St. Francis and Wheaton Academy will both be nomads for the season. St. Francis will play its entire home slate at the College of DuPage while Wheaton Academy will play at four sites for its five home games (Wheaton College twice, Elmhurst College, College of DuPage and West Chicago).

Predicted finish: Montini, Marmion, Marian Central, St. Francis, St. Edward, Wheaton Academy.

SUBURBAN CHRISTIAN GOLD

Outlook: Perennial power Aurora Christian and renowned QB Anthony Maddie replace last year’s conference champion, St. Edward, this season in the Gold Division. Two dynamic, diminutive junior receivers, Guerin’s John Dabe and Aurora Christian’s Chad Beebe (son of coach Don Beebe, who appeared in six Super Bowls in his NFL career) provide excitement in the league.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

WR Chad Beebe, Aurora Christian 5-5 125 Jr.

QB Kyle Clechenko, Aurora Central 6-1 185 Sr.

WR John Dabe, Guerin 5-10 155 Jr.

LB Nick Holzer, Aurora Central 5-11 180 Sr.

QB Anthony Maddie, Aurora Christian 6-1 185 Sr.

Quote: “Coming into year two of our system, our kids are a lot more confident, they understand what we want to do in certain situations and they are expecting to be in the hunt for a conference championship and be a playoff qualifier.” — Aurora Central coach Brian Casey.

Did you know? Aurora Christian is aiming for its 10th straight playoff berth and in all but two of the past nine seasons the Eagles won at least one playoff game, finishing second in Class 4A in 2008.

Predicted finish: Aurora Christian, Aurora Central, Guerin, Immaculate Conception, Walther Lutheran, Chicago Christian.

UPSTATE EIGHT RIVER

Outlook: Geneva is once again the heavy favorite, but rival Batavia has a solid senior class returning.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB Matt Williams, Geneva 6-3 190 Sr.

DL Cole Gardner, Batavia 6-6 235 Sr.

DL Joe Hoscheit, St. Charles East 6-1 195 Sr.

RB Dennis Moore, Elgin 5-10 170 Sr.

QB Alex Morrow, Streamwood 5-10 187 Sr.

Quote: “A conference championship is not out of reach. (We) will return six starters on offense and seven starters on defense from last year’s runner-up in conference and are joined by last year’s 8-0-1 conference champion sophomore team.” — Batavia coach Dennis Piron.

Did you know? Batavia has a new head coach in Dennis Piron, replacing Mike Gaspari. Gaspari remains on staff as an assistant and was recently inducted into the coaches association Hall of Fame.

Predicted finish: Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles East, Elgin, St. Charles North, Larkin, Streamwood.

UPSTATE EIGHT VALLEY

Outlook: One of most balanced conferences around. Bartlett, Waubonsie Valley, Neuqua Valley and South Elgin will all vie for the title.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

QB A.J. Bilyeu, Bartlett 6-3 175 Sr.

DL Mike Ippolito, Neuqua Valley 6-4 240 Sr

WR Dee Gray, Waubonsie Valley 6-3 190 Sr.

RB Tre’Sean Mackey, Metea Valley 5-8 160 Sr.

K Dave Reisner, South Elgin 6-1 192 Sr.

Quote: “I see the usual suspects at the top with the rest of us fighting for position. The Valley Division hopefully should be the type of conference that every week is a tremendous challenge and prepares the teams for success in the postseason.” — Metea Valley coach Ted Monken.

Did you know? Lake Park has a new head coach in Chris Roll.

Predicted finish: Bartlett, Waubonsie Valley, Neuqua Valley, South Elgin, Metea Valley, Lake Park, East Aurora.

WEST SUBURBAN GOLD

Outlook: Downers Grove South has won the last four conference titles, but Addison Trail should challenge with six returning all-conference players.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

RB Anthony Catanese, Addison Trail 5-10 190 Sr.

WR D.J. King, Hinsdale South 6-0 185 Sr.

DB Danny Leach, Downers South 5-11 175 Sr.

LB Nelson Lugo, Leyden 5-10 205 Sr.

RB Josh Williams, Downers South 5-9 175 Sr.

Quote: “We expect that last game of the year at Addison Trail against Downers South (to decide the title). Last year it was Week 8. We expect that to be on the line for Week 9.” — Addison Trail coach Paul Parpet Jr.

Did you know? The conference has three new coaches at Hinsdale South (Mike Barry), Willowbrook (Nick Hildreth) and Proviso East (Steven Tadlock).

Predicted finish: Downers Grove South, Addison Trail, Hinsdale South, Leyden, Willowbrook, Morton, Proviso East.

WEST SUBURBAN SILVER

Outlook: League favorite Glenbard West opens with a nonconference game at Wheaton Warrenville South at 11 a.m. Aug. 28 on ESPN2. York and Lyons are the top challengers.

Top five players Ht. Wt. Yr.

OL Ryan Callen, Hinsdale Central 6-4 270 Sr.

OL Johnny Caspers, Glenbard West 6-3 270 Sr.

RB Jaime Jones, Lyons 6-1 180 Sr.

OL Calvin King, Proviso West 6-4 330 Sr.

DL Tommy Schutt, Glenbard West 6-3 290 Sr.

Quote: “Everyone had to reapply for their jobs. We’ve done things the last few years no one has ever done. I was confident I would be brought back.” — Proviso West coach Famous Hulbert on major layoffs in the district.

Did you know? New Glenbard West QB Justice Odom and Lyons assistant coach Jon Beutjer, a former WW South QB, are cousins.

Predicted finish: Glenbard West, York, Lyons, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central, Downers Grove North, Oak Park-River Forest.

Contributing: Phil Barnes, Blake Baumgartner, Bryan Bonato, Phil Brozynski, Mike Clark, Pat Disabato, Matt Harness, Erik Jacobsen, Dino Macro, Patrick Z. McGavin, Dennis Nelson, Jim Owczarski, Dick Quagliano, Tommy Stokke, Tim Tierney, Randy Whalen.

PAST STATE CHAMPIONS

CLASS 8A

2010—Maine South 28, Mount Carmel 7

2009—Maine South 41, Marist 17

2008—Maine South 41, Hinsdale Cent. 21

2007—Naperville N. 46, Glenbard N. 19

2006—WW South 44, Mount Carmel 21

2005—L-W East 30, Maine South 24, 2 OT

2004—Downers North 33, Maine South 13

CLASS 7A

2010—WW South 28, Lake Zurich 17

2009—WW South 31, Glenbard W. 24, 2 OT

2008—East St. Louis 33, Geneva 14

2007—Lake Zurich 7, WW South 3

2006—St. Rita 35, Lake Zurich 21

2005—Prospect 20, Mount Carmel 14

2004—Libertyville 13, Cary-Grove 3

CLASS 6A

2010—Rockford Boylan 48, Marmion 19

2009—Cary-Grove 34, Providence 17

2008—Sacred Heart-Griffin 37, Lemont 15

2007—Joliet Catholic 49, Lemont 7

2006—Normal 30, Batavia 20

2005—Morris 14, Normal 9

2004—Providence 40, Bloomington 0

CLASS 5A

2010—Montini 34, Glenwood 21

2009—Montini 29, Joliet Catholic 28

2008—St. Francis 49, Metamora 35

2007—Metamora 17, Morris 14

2006—Sacred Heart-Griffin 35, Marian Central 14

2005—Sacred Heart-Griffin 28, Alleman 21

2004—Joliet Catholic 17, Morris 0

CLASS 4A

2010—Rochester 24, Alleman 7

2009—Metamora 41, Geneseo 7

2008—Bloomington Central 37, Aurora Christian 28

2007—Driscoll 48, Bloomington Central 24

2006—Driscoll 35, Mater Dei 0

2005—Driscoll 42, Newton 7

2004—Montini 44, Coal City 7

CLASS 3A

2010—Illini West 22, Stillman Valley 20

2009—Stillman Valley 52, Tolono Unity 22

2008—Illini West 21, DuQuoin 14

2007—Plano 32, Columbia 7

2006—Plano 47, St. Joseph Ogden 42

2005—Bureau Valley 34, Tolono Unity 7

2004—Driscoll 37, Bureau Valley 14

CLASS 2A

2010—Newman Central 48, Maroa-Forsyth 7

2009—Morrison 36, Maroa-Forsyth 14

2008—Imm. Conception 36, Casey-Westfield 17

2007—Dakota 50, Westville 12

2006—Maroa-Forsyth 43, Westville 22

2005—Dakota 20, Aledo 15

2004—Sterling Newman 21, Carthage 7

2003—Iroquois West 32, Carthage 14

CLASS 1A

2010—Lena-Winslow 47, Tuscola 14

2009—Tuscola 14, Lexington 7

2008—Concord 42, Stark County 7

2007—Galena 35, Tuscola 7

2006—Tuscola 35, Aledo 20

2005—Freeport 30, Cambridge 28

2004—United 21, Stockton 14

2003—Galena 21, LeRoy 20, 2OT

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