Preview: Hinsdale South

Hinsdale South coach Alex Bitto can't predict how many games his football team will win this season.

He can, however, practically guarantee one thing.

"We'll play a better brand of football," he said. "There's no question about it."

Bitto's first year at the helm was a learning experience for the program, but with a season under their belts the Hornets and eight returning starters look for a bounce-back 2008 campaign.

Darrin Kidd and Jonathan Sterling combined for only 61 carries and 500 yards last year, but breakaway speed from both players make them a threat coming out of the backfield. That's especially true behind a tough offensive line anchored by junior tackles Dane DeKing, 6-foot-3 and 285 pounds, and Cody Kuhlman, 6-3 and 250 pounds.

While Hinsdale South should be able to match last year's 1,900 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, the passing game is an unknown. Quarterback Rob Christenson threw only 2 passes in a backup role, while leading returning receiver Matt Borek caught 2 passes.

Being strong up front, though, may create opportunities.

"Our guys are stronger, they're more familiar with the system," Bitto said. "We could be much better on offense."

The success of the defense hinges on a handful of players, like DeKing and Kuhlman, who will compete on both sides of the ball at least part time. The corps of linebackers boasts experience with returning starters Rob Folkerts, James O'Shea and Kyle Wagner.

In a parity-filled West Suburban Gold, the Hornets may just be improved enough to get back in the playoffs for the first time since 2005.

"We're going to do whatever we can to accomplish our goals," Bitto said.