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Hinsdale Central Pigskin Preview

October 30, 2008

Hinsdale Central (7-2) at Downers South (7-2)


KICKOFF: 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, Mustang Stadium, 1436 Norfolk, Downers Grove

OUTLOOK: The Red Devils will try to beat a higher seed in the first round of the Class 8A playoffs for the third year in a row. The Mustangs, making their 12th straight playoff trip, seek their first playoff victory since 2005.

Hinsdale Central's John Whitelaw and Downers South's Chandler Whitmer are regarded as two of the state's top junior quarterbacks. Whitelaw has rushed for 747 yards and 13 TDs and is 92-for-166 passing for 1,455 yards and 15 TDs with five interceptions. Whitmer has passed for 1,244 yards and 12 TDs with three interceptions.

Since losing its first two games, 21-20 to undefeated Bolingbrook and 32-24 to York, Downers South plowed through a weak West Suburban Conference Gold Division but also is gaining momentum, confidence and health.

The defense has allowed just 27 points the last seven games with four shutouts. Running back Scottie Williams has rushed for 1,250 yards and 17 of his 19 TDs. Top receivers are Wes Manzer (480 yards, 8 TDs) and big-play Jason Jozaites (278 yards on 12 catches, 2 TDs). Friday's 30-7 victory at Leyden marked the return of fullback D.J. Ciancio since the Bolingbrook game and the first time their projected starting offensive line played together this season.

Hinsdale Central running back Rich Zajeski (536 rushing yards, 284 receiving yards, 10 TDs) remains questionable with a high ankle sprain suffered on the first offensive series against York Oct. 11. Eric Alexander and Jake Knowles (2 TDs each) continue to rush in his place. Leading a balanced receiving corps are Mick Culligan (456 yards, 9 TDs) and Alex Kirk (354 yards, 6 TDs).

Defensive leaders include three-year starter Pat Clegg (43 tackles), Brendan Sullivan (64 tackles, 9 tackles for loss), Sean O'Grady (54 tackles), Mike Owens (3 sacks) and placekicker Garrett Kawa (3 interceptions).

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