Week 6: Scouting the DuPage Valley

Neuqua Valley (5-0, 4-0) at Naperville North (5-0, 4-0)

DuPage Valley Conference

Game time: 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Last week: Neuqua Valley 35, Bishop Chatard (Ind.) 14; Naperville North 21, Glenbard North 13.

Last year: Neuqua Valley 34, Naperville North 7.

Outlook: The DVC lead hangs in the balance. Neuqua Valley returned lineman Jake Zeiler from injury and is nearing full strength. That means Owen Piche rejoins Isaiah Robertson at receiver, a position where Donny Navarro and Sterling Gerald have added depth. The defense is strong from lineman Tommy Ciesla and Jackson Keating to linebackers Anthony Ippolito and John Rhattigan to JaQuere Williams, Joey Elwood and Ryan Wheeler in the secondary. Last week's 15 penalties must be fixed. Continuing its best start since 2008, Naperville North last week passed its biggest test. While the focus remains on stopping the run with linemen Isaac Velasco and Malik Wells and linebacker Derek Amend, the Huskies need to be solid in the secondary. Grant Ericksen has 4 interceptions the last two weeks. The running tandem of Eric Wright and Cross Robinson is among the area's best. Big-play potential comes from quarterback Luke Cegles and receivers Mitch Lewis and Nick Calcagno.

Next week: Wheaton North at Neuqua Valley; Naperville North vs. Naperville Central at North Central College.

Metea Valley (1-4, 1-4) at Lake Park (2-3, 1-3) Game time: 7:30 p.m. Friday.

The quick hit: The playoffs start now for Metea. Superback Mike Brown lends heft to an offensive line that looks to spring Alonzo Taylor-Jones. Lake Park has reason to be concerned about the Mustangs' offense, especially with the Lancers' recent struggles trying to stop the run.

Naperville Central (3-2) at St. Edward (Ohio) (4-1)Game time: 12 p.m. Saturday.

The quick hit: The Redhawks leave Friday morning and plan to be back in Naperville by Saturday night. St. Edward was nationally ranked at one point this season. The Redhawks' three-game win streak coincides with the development of quarterback Pat Ryan.

Waubonsie Valley (3-2, 3-2) at WW South (0-5, 0-5)Game time: 7:30 p.m. Friday.

The quick hit: Snuffing drive-killing mistakes is Waubonsie's goal. Marcus Francique and Harold Jenkins return to the defensive line. Tigers quarterback Matt Dohse and receiver Cam Moore excelled playing some defense. Expect to see more two-way play.Wheaton North (3-2, 2-2) at Glenbard North (3-2, 2-2)Game time: 7:30 p.m. Friday.

The quick hit: The Falcons won despite a rash of injuries. Running back Antowon Tolbert was promoted from the sophomore team. He'll meet all-DuPage Valley defensive end Chris Noeun and his pal Colin Rosado. The Panthers look to avoid last week's 2 picks, 9 penalties.