Previewing: Montini Catholic

An all-state quarterback goes out, another highly regarded signalcaller comes in ...

Brandon Pechloff, a prototype 6-foot-6, 230-pound senior who interests most of the Mid-America Conference, Indiana, Purdue and Connecticut, steps into the spread offense to hopefully continue where graduated record-setter Tom DiCristina left off.

"He's the real deal," said Montini coach Chris Andriano, the dean of DuPage football coaches in his 31st season. "He throws the ball as well as anybody we've had here."

Pechloff saw limited duty last season in relief of DiCristina, Montini's all-time leader in touchdown passes and completions. Pechloff completed 17 of 29 passes for 239 yards and 3 touchdowns.

He's one of several skill-position players who will make their mark in Lombard.

Returning starter Christian Westerkamp will be joined at receiver by sophomore brother Jordan - junior Matt Westerkamp, a quarterback-defensive back, completes the trio - while two-way starter Ryan Gorrell will display multiple offensive abilities.

The Broncos' marquee ball carrier promises to be former Driscoll player Nick Campanella. Last season he ran for 910 yards, caught 34 passes for 412 yards and scored 18 touchdowns in the Highlanders' swan song.

"Campanella will make a lot of noise," Andriano said. "Skill-wise we've got some really good players. We're very, very unsure still about our offensive line."

Montini's defensive strength is at linebacker, where Gorrell made a team-high 77 tackles a year ago. Linebackers Alex Walters and Doug Diedrick saw time last season, but as on offense the line will be inexperienced except for tackle Ross Ferraro, who made 16 tackles for loss as a sophomore.

At this point Hall of Famer Andriano's seen it all and has come through with confidence intact: "We believe we can beat anybody."