Preview: Naperville North

For all the new faces on Naperville North's football team, a familiar sight remains.

The Huskies still flash a championship attitude.

The defending Class 8A state champs have much rebuilding to do - starting with replacing quarterback and Daily Herald All-Area captain Jordan Tassio. Over the course of the season, though, don't be surprised if the Huskies prime themselves for another title run.

"Every year's a new year, and these guys haven't proven anything," coach Larry McKeon said. "We've got some kids who could be good players, but they need to mature very quickly."

The position with the most to prove is quarterback. Matt Manade, Tassio's backup last year, was slated to be the starter before he suffered a pre-season leg injury. While McKeon said he's hopeful Manade will return, he acknowledged he'll be without the senior for at least the early part of the season.

The loss of Manade thrusts sophomore quarterback Matt LaCosse into the starting role far earlier than planned.

LaCosse will have plenty of support in an offense planning to be in the double wing about 60 percent of the time. All-DuPage Valley Conference running back Nick Mlady, who rushed for 1,274 yards despite a late-season injury, and Patrick Waite return to an explosive backfield.

The offensive line could be terrific led by University of Arizona-bound tackle Jake Baratz and returning starters Alex Helms and James Fissinger. Inexperience looms on defense, where lineman Tim Weidenbacher is the sole returner.

Only five starters return including four on offense.

It's a new team, but the same goals remain.

"We've got good senior leaders and they want to continue that tradition," McKeon said.