Pirates have even bigger plans

Palatine took a big step forward last season with its first playoff trip and victory in a decade.

And the Pirates plan to continue moving ahead.

"These kids want their own identity and want to have their own team," said Palatine coach Tyler Donnelly. "They want to hear about what they're doing this year. They're very cognizant that last year is history."

One way the Pirates plan to put last year in the past is with the passing of third-year quarterback Matt Rossi.

The senior will be directing a spread offense after the Pirates pounded away at people with a double-wing running game last year.

Rossi has plenty of speed threats in Jose Munoz, Cody Bobbit, Jamie Silveira, Jimmy LaCapra. Kevin Dann returns to a line that is big, deep and athletic.

And the Pirates will still be able to run with senior Chris Norman, who ran a 4.51 40 at Western Michigan's summer camp.

"The game plan is spread the field and say, 'Try to take away Chris right here' and let Matt throw all day to his receivers," Donnelly said. "If you take Matt away - it's hard to bring Chris down in space."

The defense also has a marquee all-area returnee at middle linebacker in Ryan Cortez. Having senior Steve Korus back is another plus after missing most of last year with mono and a torn ACL in his knee.

"He's a load," Donnelly said. "He's a really good linebacker."

Strong safety and playmaker Jack Hansen has overcome some knee trouble to lead the secondary with Steve Temple and LaCapra.

Junior Chad Bobbit, who started on varsity as a freshman and played a game last year, anchors the line at nose guard. Brock Tenca will go both ways up front and athletic junior tackle Tyler Jones started both playoff games.

"It's a different team but a lot of kids played in the playoffs," Donnelly said. "It was a great experience but going farther this year is their goal."