Preview: Naaperville Central

Naperville Central's football team is encouraged about what it is.

The Redhawks are thrilled about what they might become.

"We have some athletes, but will the athletes be football players?" coach Mike Stine said. "If they are then I think we could be pretty good."

One of the team's - and the DuPage Valley Conference's - best athletes is Riley O'Toole, who proved himself last season as a fine football player. After catching 18 passes for 338 yards and 2 touchdowns as a junior, he'll be counted on to contribute as a receiver, defensive back and punter.

"He's our one legit Division I player," Stine said.

Another key member of the Redhawks' group of eight returning starters is defensive lineman Jordan Poll, an all-DVC pick in 2007. With Mike Kraft and Clint Woods also returning to the defensive line, that side of the ball looks pretty solid.

It's a contrast to last year when the Harrison Daniels-led offense lit up scoreboards. With their all-conference quarterback gone, however, the job shifts to a new signalcaller in junior Nick Linne.

They should have time to gain valuable varsity experience early in the season as five returning defense starters carry the load. Linebacker Shane Dillon, last year's fullback, is among the other defensive leaders.

"We won't have to outscore teams this year," Stine said. "Our defense should be strong."

The offense gets an extra boost from Nick Kukoc, who because of an injury early last season became the starting tailback and rushed for 601 yards and 8 touchdowns. Another solid season by Kukoc depends upon the offensive line rebuilding around Joe Widman, the unit's only returning starter.

"We've got some work to do, but I'm excited," Stine said.