Preview: Lisle (3-4, 2-2) at Westmont (2-5, 1-3)

Lisle (3-4, 2-2) at Westmont (2-5, 1-3)

Interstate Eight Conference, Small Division

Game time: 7:30 p.m. today.

Last year: Westmont 35, Lisle 24.

Last week: Wilmington 24, Lisle 0; Dwight 20, Westmont 15.

Outlook: These teams' records don't elevate the pulse, but this game holds layers of intrigue. First, Lisle can't reach the playoffs without beating Westmont and, in Week 9, Sandwich. Second, it's for the Old Plank Road Trophy, established when Westmont entered the IEC three years ago, honoring the rivalry of schools connected by Ogden Avenue or old Plank Road. Finally, Westmont coach Mark Orszula was an all-IEC two-way lineman at Lisle under Lions coach Dan Sanko, for whom Orszula was a line coach from 2005-07. They communicate all the time. Thus, while this game feels somewhat awkward for both men, there will be few secrets. Orszula knows he'll have to stop Lisle's mid-line veer, which features backs Anthony Ventrella and Jake Kretman. Quarterback Jon Surber will try to achieve a passing presence for Lisle, which has killed itself with costly turnovers but plays good defense. Linebackers Nick Nigro and Jon Kolosky have to tackle slashing Westmont back Kevin Zapinsky. If successful, the Old Plank Road Trophy could get a bus ride back to Lisle.