Can the DVC be just as good?
One football game symbolized the DuPage Valley Conference's determined success in 2007, and it came before the playoffs even began.
Wheaton Warrenville South locked up its third straight DVC title in Week 9 with an epic 42-41 triple-overtime win over fellow unbeaten Naperville North.
Not only did it turn out to be perhaps the best game in conference history, it proved to be a perfect preview of things to come.
It opened the door for a flood of five DVC teams to qualify for the postseason, a run that led to three teams - WW South, Naperville North and upstart Glenbard North - to eventually reach state title games. Naperville North, with a win over Glenbard North in the Class 8A final, claimed the program's second state title.
With an unprecedented season in the rear view mirror, thoughts now turn to 2008 and the expectation of similar title aspirations.
"It's going to be hard to get three teams in title games ever again," said Naperville North coach Larry McKeon. "But I think this could be another barnburner year just to make the playoffs."
Who rates an edge in the DVC? Take your pick.
As WW South looks to win its fourth straight title while extending a 21-game league winning streak, it'll face challenges from multiple contenders.
The Tigers return seven starters including the backfield of Peter Jarrett, who rushed for 715 yards, and fullback Mike Olp, a third-year starter. Linebacker Pat Dansdill was second on the team with 107 tackles.
"No one's ever gone unbeaten in the DVC four straight years," said Tigers coach Ron Muhitch. "We have the potential to do it, but I'm not sure the players see that yet. We need to get them to that point."
Despite graduating quarterback and Daily Herald All-Area captain Jordan Tassio, Naperville North aims to reload with a talented backfield and a tough offensive line.
Nick Mlady, hobbled by an ankle injury late last season, still rushed for nearly 1,300 yards and 10 touchdowns. Offensive lineman Jake Baratz recently accepted a scholarship to Arizona while end Tim Weidenbacher is the lone returning starter to the defense.
Unlike last season, Glenbard North won't sneak up on anyone. Especially not with 6-foot-6, 235-pound Northwestern-bound quarterback Evan Watkins at the helm.
All Watkins did last year was throw for 2,000 yards and 21 touchdowns and carry the Panthers from a 5-4 regular-season record into the 8A final. The offense gets another huge boost from the return of running back Tyler Doll, who rushed for 1,700 yards and 13 touchdowns.
If Glenbard North's defense rallies around an experienced line, it'll again be a beast to beat in the DVC.
"I'd like to think we'll be in there somewhere," said Panthers coach Ryan Wilkens. "Every week is going to be a battle."
Wheaton North and new coach Joe Wardynski, WW South's defensive coordinator the last four years, bring tremendous energy and experience in its quest for its first DVC title and playoff win since 2002.
The Falcons will lean on nine returning starters and one of the state's top players in running back Mike Trumpy, a Northwestern recruit who returns 1,700 yards and 19 touchdowns. Quarterback Taylor Graham also returns after starting much of last season.
Naperville Central has its own top athlete in Riley O'Toole, one of eight returning starters. While O'Toole could play just about anywhere on the field, he'll stick to wide receiver and defensive back after catching 18 passes for 338 yards and 2 touchdowns last year.
Glenbard East hopes to improve with a healthy Jack Merrithey at quarterback. West Chicago welcomes Hal Chiodo to the program - its third head coach in as many seasons.
Many coaches expect West Aurora to be a thorn in the side of conference teams. All that kept the Blackhawks from the playoffs last season was a tough 14-7 Week 9 loss to Glenbard North.
"I don't think last season surprised anyone in the conference," said Naperville Central coach Mike Stine. "We know how tough it is every season. This season will be just as tough."