Scouting Glenbard South at Glenbard West

Glenbard South at Glenbard West

Game time: 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

Last year: Glenbard West 49, Glenbard South 0.

Outlook: In only its fourth season, this will be the final meeting between the Glen Ellyn rivals. Glenbard South, which lost the last two meetings by a combined margin of 76 points, has a chance to even the series at 2-2. Evening the series, though, is just one part of the story. First-year Raiders coach Jeremy Cordell was Glenbard West's defensive coordinator the last three years. Beating his former team won't be easy considering the key graduation losses suffered by the Raiders. Last year's potent offense returns only one skill player in running back John Hentges. Junior Wes Sanders also aims to be a factor in the ground game. Fellow junior Tyler Padera takes over at quarterback. With linemen McKinley Geiger, Kyle Avaloy and Dan Marshall returning, Glenbard South is in better shape to slow what will be a fierce Hilltoppers defense featuring linemen Tommy Schutt, regarded as one of the top juniors in the state, and Zack Marshall, who holds offers from Buffalo and Ball State. Linebackers Beau Warden and Justin Mesch, along with defensive back Mike Laning, add to the talented unit. The Hilltoppers' offense may not be as explosive as last season, but running back-receiver Nick Burrello is one of the area's premier playmakers. Trace Sorey returns to the backfield as well. Also watch for the passing tandem of first-year starting quarterback Mike Matthew and receiver Mark Hiben, who caught several big passes during the Glenbard West's drive to the Class 7A championship game. Two-way players will factor heavily into Glenbard South's effort, especially on defense. Marshall will play on the line while Hentges and Jessie Larabee, another running back, will play linebacker. Junior linebacker Nick Boesso - one of six players slated to see time on both sides of the ball - was among the team leaders in tackles last season. Motivation is obvious in this final chance at bragging rights in a game that will be broadcast on Comcast CN100.

Next week: Nazareth at Glenbard South; Glenbard West at Downers Grove South.