Glenbard South has potential to score big
Glenbard South’s football team scored at least 4 touchdowns in seven games last season.
With the offensive skill the Raiders boast this year, 2012 might end up being the appetizer for a feast in 2013.
“We’ve got a chance to really score some points,” said Glenbard South coach Jeremy Cordell. “The question is how do we utilize what we have and spread the ball around?”
Three returning starters will see the ball plenty.
Quarterback Alex Jeske was named all-Metro Suburban Conference and academic all-state after throwing for 1,558 yards and 14 touchdowns last year. Receiver Clark Gary and running back Zach Smith combined for nearly 3,500 all-purpose yards.
Four linemen return, including all-MSC pick Ryan Sadkowski, to spearhead what should be an extremely potent offense.
Five defensive starters are back led by Connor Willis, also an all-MSC honoree, and lineman Erwin Lane. It’s not a physically imposing group, but what the Raiders lack in size they make up for with athleticism.
“It’s the fastest defense I’ve had here,” Cordell said. “We’re young in some spots, but they’re guys with experience.”
Willis’ experience will be key in the linebacking corps with sophomores Dillon Valdez and Jake Kapp expected to contribute. Glenbard South’s preseason roster includes nine sophomores, but Cordell is confident in their ability to immediately play effectively.
If the defense does falter early because of youth, the offense should be strong enough to keep the Raiders competitive throughout a diverse schedule.
Last season Glenbard South achieved the goals of sharing the MSC title and advancing to the playoffs. This year the Raiders want to build upon that success.
“We had a great off-season, and I think we’re that much sharper because of it,” Cordell said. “Some things are just second nature to these guys.”
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Schedule
Fri, 8/30 Addison Trail at Glenbard South 7:30 p.m.
Fri, 9/6 Glenbard South at Antioch 7:30 p.m.
Fri, 9/13 Rich East at Glenbard South 7:30 p.m.
Sat, 9/21 Glenbard South at Rich South Noon
Fri, 9/27 Elmwood Park at Glenbard South 7:15 p.m.
Fri, 10/4 Glenbard South at Riverside-Brookfield7:15 p.m.
Fri, 10/11 Fenton at Glenbard South 7:15 p.m.
Fri, 10/18 Glenbard South at Ridgewood 7:15 p.m.
Sat, 10/26 Glenbard South at Bloom Noon