September 11, 2008

Hinsdale Central (1-1) at LT (0-2)

• KICKOFF: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, Bennett Field, 4900 S. Willow Springs Road, Western Springs

RELATED STORIES
Zajeski, Central offense have Morton's number
• LAST YEAR: Hinsdale Central 26, LT 14

• OUTLOOK: The Red Devils open West Suburban Conference Silver Division play against a huge and hungry rival that could easily be 2-0.

The Lions lost 20-14 at Proviso East Saturday and 17-14 in overtime at home to Sandburg Aug. 29 after leading 14-6 and 14-7 entering the fourth quarter, respectively.

LT's offense returns no starters and has been ground-oriented with an option offense (431 rushing yards, 32 passing yards) led by junior quarterback Ryan Mitchell (140 yards, 50 carries, 2 TDs) and senior running backs David Bellisario (197 yards on 26 carries, 31-yard TD run) and Deonte Brown (167 yards, 34 carries, 17-yard TD reception). The Lions have had methodical TD drives covering 69, 63 and 81 yards but also have lost four fumbles each of the first two games.

The defense has been solid behind two returning starters, 2007 all-conference lineman Pat Thomas and free safety Matt Lakis, and nose tackle Rafal Redlinski (4 sacks). The Lions have allowed just 359 total yards but TD passes of 77 and 41 yards and three other completions between 26 and 49 yards.

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