Previewing: Wheaton Academy

The first senior class in Wheaton Academy's rejuvenated football program seeks big things.

Headed by quarterback Brian Pell, receiver-safety Anthony Ritchie and athleticism all over, Warriors coach Ben Wilson anticipates a run at the title of their division in the new Suburban Christian Conference, and with it a playoff berth.

"I think we're going to be very competitive with every team that we play," Wilson said. "We've kind of set a goal to win the SCC Gold. It's a tall order for sure, but we want to set the bar high. This is the best team we've had in the young history of the program."

If the Warriors can block - right tackle Clay Berg is the sole returning starting lineman - Pell should put points on the board.

The three-year starter completed 116 of 188 passes last season for 1,979 yards, 20 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Out of the spread formation Pell added 261 yards rushing with 4 touchdowns.

The 6-foot-4 Ritchie, who tied for the team high with 36 receptions for 671 yards, 6 touchdowns, was often on the receiving end.

Returning tailback Kai Libby wasn't the featured back in 2008, but he'll assuredly top last year's 231 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns.

Throw in players such as Sam Cote, Jimmy Johnson, Jon Fink and Wheaton North transfer Luke Thorson and Wilson sees more depth at the skill spots than before.

Scoring hasn't been Wheaton Academy's problem - it was stopping teams, which cut short a playoff bid at 4-5.

Again, the line in his 4-3 set lacks reps, as just 5-foot-11, 240-pound C.J. Stecca is back to start. But Wilson thinks the line will plug the gaps and allow Ritchie, Pell, Cote and corners Libby and Christian Park to clean up.

"We had tremendous commitment over the summer," Wilson said, "and now everyone is on the same page."