Preview: Glenbard East

Glenbard East is getting back to its football roots.

After drifting into a pro-style offense the last three seasons, the Rams are returning to what used to be a tradition in the program - the Wing T.

"We kind of got away from that hard-nose play and being physical," coach Dennis Lueck said. "When we've been successful in the past we've run the ball and controlled the time of possession. That's what we want to get back to."

First, though, the Rams need to fill the giant hole left by the graduation of four-year starting linebacker and fullback Pat Walker, who's preparing to wrestle for the University of Illinois.

It won't be easy, and the hole won't be filled by just one player.

A trio of runners - Kevin Kohn, Aaron Hall and Mark Krueger - look to keep the ground game churning despite a lack of varsity experience.

The passing game could be a pleasant surprise as junior quarterback Jack Merrithey returns from an injury that occurred late last season. Watch out for 6-foot-5 junior receiver Lee Skinner as a deep threat.

"We still want to be primarily a running team but we also want to be effective throwing the ball," Lueck said. "With Jack and Lee we should be able to do that."

Of the seven starters returning only three are on defense. Mitch George switches from defense to play on the offensive line this year.

Losing Walker's presence is huge for the defense, but the Rams aim to make up for that loss with an overall more physical lineup. Cornerback Clinton Omsberger is one of the unit's leaders along with tackle Connor Flood and linebacker Ryan Kasper.

"If we can create turnovers and stop the run we'll be better defensively," Lueck said. "Overall we just want to be more physical."