West Chicago coach Ted Monken believes the Wildcats can position themselves for success.
“We have a lot of mature kids that know what they’re doing, that’s a strength. I think we have a chance to move the ball a little better this year and manage that clock, keep the defense fresh and have meaningful minutes in the fourth quarter,” Monken said.
Monken has been impressed by the offensive line captained by senior Noah Kotke.
“They’re just doing a nice job coming off the ball and executing their assignments,” Monken said. “I feel like they’re going to be a much-improved unit.”
If they provide holes, the triple-option offense has some experience and speed. Returner Frank Aniello averaged 5 yards a carry and scored 3 touchdowns in limited reps. Jeremy Grant averaged 3.8 yards a carry while finishing third on last year’s squad with 47 tackles at linebacker.
C.J. Griffin mainly impacted at free safety last season but will also bring sprinter’s speed to the offensive side. Receiver Jahleel Humphrey averaged 18 yards a catch also in limited reps there.
The versatile Griffin was competing for the quarterback spot with senior Jeff Zajac, who was the sophomore quarterback two years ago but focused on baseball as a junior.
“He’s done a real nice job this year,” Monken said of Zajac.
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