Hoffman's Gutierrez, Reeves ready to roll

David Gutierrez and Michael Reeves are a more comfortable and confident combination this year in Hoffman Estates' triple option offense.

Last year the offense wasn't just brand new. Gutierrez missed the first half of the season at quarterback with a broken foot and Reeves was in his first year at running back.

"I think it will be a lot better than last year," said Gutierrez, who got hurt the week before the season opener but finished with 539 rushing yards. "It was our first season running it and we had to get through the rough edges.

"Everything is crisp and good and everyone knows what they're doing. I feel confident with me and Reeves."

Reeves didn't move to running back until Week 3 and finished with 383 yards and 3 touchdowns. He didn't work out as a running back his freshman year and was a defensive lineman before the switch.

"Last year I didn't feel comfortable at all, but working with David every day, I feel a lot more comfortable," Reeves said. "I was really surprised (with the move). I never thought I'd get another shot to play running back and I'm glad I got the opportunity."

Now Reeves believes he has a better idea of how to take advantage of opportunities when he's carrying the ball.

"I feel I've gotten better back there," Reeves said. "I'm more confident running the ball and making the right cuts and reading my blocks. I feel David makes the right choices pulling and pitching the ball."

Gutierrez also expects to be more of a throwing threat with weapons such as Mike DeNight, Dalton Garrett, Jason Sumling and Eric Saubert. With experience up front as well, the goal is start turning around the Hawks' fortunes after a winless season.

"We all talked about that 0-9 feeling," Gutierrez said, "and we don't want that again."