Linebacking corps a strength for Meadows

They are the heart of a Rolling Meadows defense that has been tough to beat.

And seniors Colin Buscarini, Sean Connor and Andrew Peters are pretty pumped about what's ahead with a full year of starting experience behind them at linebacker.

"I feel we're a lot farther along and everything has already been put in," said Connor, who will be on the outside with Peters in Meadows' 3-4 and has played linebacker since the fourth grade.

"We're much more experienced," said Peters. "Last year was a little bit shaky and we were kind of learning everything.

"I feel like we really work well together."

Buscarini is the returning all-area force in the middle. Senior John Putz has stepped in as the other starter.

"Everyone benefits each other and makes it a perfect defense," Connor said.

"Everyone brings something to the table," said Buscarini, who also starts at offensive tackle. "The best form on the team is Sean - he does everything right and does everything to the fullest.

"Peters is a fundamentally sound kid. Me and Peters are aggressive and we aren't afraid to hit you. The same is true for Sean.

"I think Putz will do very well. He has the knowledge you need to be a great contributor to our defense."

This year the linebacking unit is the most experienced part of the Mustangs' defense run by Tony Wolanski.

"We're already putting in new stuff and we can show more looks," Buscarini said. "We know how to run the defense."

Buscarini, who has a 4.0 grade point average on a 5.0 scale, a 24 ACT and is a history buff, definitely figures to play somewhere next year.

"I wake up every day with a smile on my face because I can't wait to put the pads on," Buscarini said.

Connor, who has a 4.98 GPA and a 29 ACT and wants to go into business, is looking at possibly playing at Dayton, Holy Cross or Illinois State.

Peters has a 4.5 GPA and 25 ACT and wants to study accounting and go to law school. He said playing next year depends on where he goes to school and academically he's looking at Colorado, Kansas and Central Florida.

And one of the main goals for Buscarini, Connor and Peters in their final season is to defend Meadows' Mid-Suburban East title.

"We've been known every year for a good defense and that's something we pride ourselves on," Peters said.

"It's our heart and soul," Connor said. "We always want to have the best defense in the conference and prove no one can score a lot of points on us."