The best players of 2008? Here's the cream of the crop
Each season for some crazy reason I decide to pick a Coach of the Year along with my selection for the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year in Illinois.
It's always quite a task, and since my team coverage each year is focused on Class 8A through 5A, I limit my selections to those four classes of football. Otherwise, trying to make a final choice between, say, a Jordan Roberts from Class 4A Aurora Christian or a Charlie Goro from Class 8A Maine South for Offensive POY would literally be a no-win situation.
Today let's focus on a handful of players from Class 8A down to 5A whom I would call serious candidates for Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Quarterback Charlie Goro, Maine South: Goro, who is already verbally committed to Vanderbilt, leads arguably the state's top passing attack this season for the No. 1-ranked Hawks in Class 8A. Goro is an impact player, and whether it's on the run or throwing the ball, Goro is a threat at all times.
Running back Michael Ratay, Geneva: I'm already on record comparing Ratay to former Morris standout and 2005 Offensive Player of the Year John Dergo. Like Dergo, Michael Ratay just makes plays and seems to see holes before anyone else does for the undefeated Class 7A Vikings. Ratay makes it almost look too easy, the ultimate compliment to any player at any level.
Running back Cameron White, Antioch: The Och has been on an unreal roll this season, and Cameron White has been the Sequoits' main weapon. White has been a major home-run hitter for run-happy Antioch and coach Brian Glashagel in Class 6A, and teams must defend White and know where he is on every down.
Quarterback Detchauz Wray, East St. Louis: Only a junior, Wray has the advantage of being surrounded by serious Division-I talent, yet Wray is the straw that stirs the drink for the Class 7A Flyers' offensive attack. Wray has thrown for 1,960 yards with 27 touchdowns in 11 games.
Running back Tyler Hudetz, Joliet Catholic: Hudetz was the main offensive threat for the Class 6A Hilltoppers in 2008. Hudetz, who as a junior was named an all-state performer, gained 1,760 yards and scored 23 touchdowns for the Hilltoppers.
Running back Mark Kachmer, St. Francis: The Spartans might just be one of the best stories so far this fall, and Kachmer has been the main offensive weapon for a Class 5A team that has been averaging nearly 37 points per game.