Preview: Willowbrook

With 19 positions featuring new starters, Willowbrook's football team will be a cast of unknowns.

But with six players planning to start on both sides of the ball, they'll become familiar faces in no time.

"Hopefully, we can get some kids up to speed and spell some guys at times," coach Mark Olson said. "If we can do that I think we'll be in good shape."

For now, though, double duty will be the norm for many players.

That includes first-year quarterback Brian Monette, who also plans on playing defense in the secondary. Fullback Mike Head, who played defense last season, and Dan Rispens, who will patrol the offensive and defensive line, are the only players on offense with significant varsity experience.

The defensive line is a rare area of experience with Rispens, 6-foot-3, 270-pound end John Wilson and Dan Maxwell. Junior Cam McCarver is another defensive lineman expected to contribute greatly.

"I think we'll have an aggressive, physical defense," Olson said.

Inexperienced as they are, the offensive skill positions inspire a great amount of optimism. Monette is an athletic quarterback while Steven Frobel, another defensive player last year, and sophomore Jibril Jones have the potential to be impact running backs in the double wing.

"This is the third year we've been running the offense," Olson said. "So our kids are familiar with it now and we're seeing the difference."

Familiarity is what it's all about for the Warriors this season.

You may not know them now, but you'll know them soon.

"It's going to take time," Olson said. "But our kids are putting in a great effort, and that's all you can ask for."

After averaging 340 yards per game last season, Willowbrook returns a total of only 59 yards of rushing offense. Jabril Jones ran for 34 of those yards.

Head coach: Mark Olson (fifth year, 17-21).

2007 record: 6-4, 4-2 West Suburban Gold.