Scouting the Downers South Mustangs

One of the area's most consistent football programs over the last two decades, Downers Grove South is defined by an unknown this season.

How will the Mustangs perform in the post-Chandler Whitmer era?

With their three-year starting quarterback now at the University of Illinois, Downers South will show a much different look. But with plenty of experience elsewhere on offense, the Mustangs still should be explosive.

"We don't have any marquee players like we've had in the past, but we've got a lot of good ones," said Mustangs coach John Belskis. "Our quarterbacks don't have to do what Chandler did. They just have to manage the offense."

Senior Kevin Carlson missed most of last year with a broken collarbone, leaving junior A.J. Simoncelli, last year's sophomore team quarterback, as Whitmer's backup. Carlson and Simoncelli may both see time behind center.

Although the Mustangs won't have experience at quarterback, eight starters return to the offense, including the entire line that's anchored by tackle Zach Taylor.

"If you're going to be competitive, you've got to be good in the trenches," Belskis said. "I think we'll be much better up front this year."

Injuries limited running back Josh Williams during his sophomore season, but he's healthy now. Receivers Ryan Oruche and Ryan Smith offer solid targets in the passing game.

Defensively, only three starters return headed by safety Bryan Ruggiero and linemen Josh Aldrin and Will Thompson.

If the young defense can rebuild Downers South will take a crucial step toward its 14th straight playoff appearance and make a run at repeating as West Suburban Gold champions.

A few of the faces may have changed, but the same goals remain.

"These guys have high expectations," Belskis said. "They know the success the program has had in the past and they want to enjoy their own success."

The breakdown

Coach: John Belskis (22nd year, 180-52).

2009 record: 9-3, 6-0, first in West Suburban Gold.

Top players: Josh Williams (RB, 5-9, 170, jr.); Bryan Ruggiero (S, 6-1, 180, sr.); Ryan Oruche (WR, 6-0, 180, sr.); A.J. Simoncelli (QB, 6-0, 155, jr.); Kevin Carlson (QB, 6-2, 200, sr.); Will Thompson (DT, 6-2, 235, jr.); Josh Aldrin (NG, 5-9, 235, jr.); Zach Taylor (RT, 6-2, 250, sr.); Shane Companey (LT, 6-2, 235, sr.); Trey Bahaveolos (LG, 6-3, 255, sr.); Nick Monaghan (C, 6-2, 200, sr.); Russell O'Dell (RG, 6-2, 240, sr.); Ryan Smith (WR, 6-2, 170, sr.); Wes Scott (LB, 6-0, 210, sr.); Melvin Saulsberry (LB, 6-1, 190, jr.).