Preview: Downers Grove South

For all the highs from last year, one big low dominated the off-season for Downers Grove South's football team.

Despite an unbeaten regular season and the program's first West Suburban Gold Conference title since 2003, all the Mustangs could think about was a loss to Homewood-Flossmoor in the opening round of the playoffs.

Eleven starters return - including eight on offense - to make sure disappointment doesn't strike again.

"You learn more from your mistakes than from your successes," coach John Belskis said. "And that's been a tremendous motivation for us."

Junior quarterback Chandler Whitmer burst on the area scene last year and put up impressive numbers - 1,271 passing yards and 18 touchdowns against only 3 interceptions. Leading receiver Wes Manzer returns as well after catching 33 passes for 668 yards and 7 touchdowns.

The passing game should thrive behind three returning linemen including guard Mick Muench, who missed much of last season due to injury.

Speaking of injury, perhaps no return is more important than running back Scottie Williams'. The third-year starter rushed for 400 yards despite missing half the season with groin, foot and knee injuries.

"When Scottie's healthy he's someone you have to account for as a defense," Belskis said. "He's quite a talent."

While the Mustangs' offense should be stellar, success hinges on a young defense with only three returning starters led by linebacker Seth Carson.

Like last year the Mustangs, a heavy favorite in the Gold, should charge into the 8A playoffs as a state favorite.

Unlike last year, however, Downers South plans on sticking around for a while.

"These guys want to make up for the end of last year," Belskis said.