‘Edgy’ Tim: The best players on the area teams I’ve seen this season

Each season I undertake a non-stop adventure to see as many IHSA football players and teams as possible. I fully admit it's a losing cause to see every player in the state each year, but I still talk myself into making that endless trek, and have now for over 33 years.

Here are some of the best players I've seen in person within the Daily Herald coverage area this season.

Batavia: The Bulldogs have a handful of major D1 names this season including receiver Darin Ashiru (Western Michigan), tight end Brennon Zeng (NIU) and tight end Thomas Prescott (Wyoming). The best player I saw from Batavia? In my mind it's Batavia senior quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren (Wyoming). Vander Luitgaren has become a dangerous runner who's greatly improved his speed and mobility while still possessing major-league arm talent. He has completed 161 of 219 passes for 2,186 yards and 26 touchdowns.

Downers Grove North: The Trojans had an impressive 17-10 win over Lyons Twp. on Friday. The Trojans have a ton of key names but running back/safety Grant Georgas stood out and was the best player I saw. Georgas had 11 carries for 100 yards and a rushing touchdown. He also plays a key role on a Trojans defense that has allowed just 61 points in eight games. Also keep an eye on DGN junior defensive end Declan Davies as another key name on the defense.

Geneva: The Vikings have an impressive offensive dynamic duo in senior quarterback Ben Peterson (Eastern Michigan) and senior receiver Bennett Konkey (Illinois). Both players are posting all-state level numbers and look primed for a deep postseason run. Konkey, the best player I saw live for Geneva, has lived up to the preseason hype, which has been an impressive feat. He has 53 catches for 1,184 yards and 18 TD's while Peterson has completed 127 of 178 passes for 2,402 yards and 30 touchdowns.

Glenbard West: The best Hilltoppers player I saw live so far is senior quarterback A.J. Rayford. Rayford has been electric this fall running the Hilltoppers with his arm and legs. He has become a dangerous dual threat at quarterback. West is also getting big seasons so far from senior tight end Brady Johnson (Northwestern), senior running back Ace Harris, senior offensive tackle Josiah Wallace (Northwestern), and senior receiver/defensive back Jaylen McMiller. Several names are also on the sideline due to injury including junior running back/defensive back Bryce Ellens, who has been drawing recruiting attention.

Huntley: A big reason why Huntley is unbeaten is the play of junior quarterback Malik Carter. Listed at 6-5 and 200 pounds, Carter has posted big numbers (1,572 yards and 19 TDs) and has continued developing his overall game. He seems more confident each week. More and more college coaches are taking a closer look at Carter.

Montini: Best player I saw live from Montini? Senior quarterback Israel Abrams, duh. Abrams, a five-star quarterback as ranked by Rivals who has committed to the Miami Hurricanes, has great numbers so far this season. Look for the Broncos to rev things up even more once the state playoffs start.

York: The Dukes have turned around its season by winning four straight games including Saturday's thrilling 25-22 win over Glenbard West. The best player I saw from York? Senior two-way lineman Owen Roberts (Purdue) has been pressed into double duty after playing strictly on the Dukes' defensive line. Roberts (6-4, 240 pounds) plays with speed and power and was throwing opposing defensive linemen around while on offense. Impressive.