Result is familiar, but this is a different WW South team

The flash wasn't there but the substance sure was.

That's the new Wheaton Warrenville South in a nutshell: a grind-it-out machine, accented by solid execution and bursts of excitement.

Not many highlight-reel plays, but a knack for getting the job done. And the No. 1 job got done Friday with a 20-6 win over Hinsdale Central.

"We lost so many guys, some people are doubting us," linebacker Pat Dansdill said. "But we're back and we're going to bring it every week."

Honestly, though, becoming accustomed to not seeing Dan Dierking in WW South's backfield did take a while.

Maybe that's a good thing. While it's fond to reflect on an unforgettable season -- a 14-0 campaign capped by the program's fifth state title -- the 2007 Tigers aim to move forward and forge their own identity.

Besides, we've seen enough thunder and lightning this week. This team is all about meat and potatoes.

"We can't rely on No. 25 anymore," said quarterback Mike Piatkowski, referring to Dierking. "Freshman and sophomore year we had to grind it out, and this year we'll just have to keep working hard every week."

No more No. 25, but plenty of No. 10 (Piatkowski), No. 4 (running back Francis Adarkwa) and No. 31 (linebacker Mark LaBelle).

Those are the numbers firing up Tigers fans this season. Heck, even kicker Dan Conroy had his name chanted by the student section after his numerous touchbacks.

It won't take last year's breakaway touchdowns by the offense or the 35 interceptions by the defense to bring Tiger Nation to its feet. Fans love a well-played game, and they saw one against Hinsdale Central.

Only one penalty and no turnovers. Not bad for an opener.

Are the unknowns still there? Absolutely. But it sure feels good getting that first one under your belt.

"I don't think anyone knows how good the Tigers are going to be," Dansdill said. "We're going to be a top team, but I don't know if we even know how good we're going to be."

They'll find out pretty quick. Next week it's the annual showdown against Waubonsie Valley, which looks to have its best team in a decade.

Time will tell about the Tigers -- sooner rather than later.

"Coach keeps telling us that we are the returning state champions, so we've got to start acting like it," Piatkowski said. "And that's what we're doing."