By Bobby Narang
Naperville Central High School lost several contributors from last season’s memorable football team.
Yet, the Redhawks, even with numerous first-time staters and newcomers on the varsity, looked in sync in their season opening 24-9 win over Hinsdale Central.
The Redhawks (1-0) kept the visitors out of the end zone until a late hurry-up offense by Hinsdale Central ended with a Billy Cernugel four-yard touchdown run with 3:41 remaining in regulation.
Senior quarterback Chris McCormack shined in his first varsity start by passing for 145 yards and two touchdowns. He didn’t throw an interception and completed his final eight passes of the game, including tossing TD passes of six and 32 yards.
“We have a very young offense and defense, so we knew nerves would definitely take place for us tonight,” McCormack said. “Our scout team on defense gave us great looks in practice, and it helped give us an open book. We got locked in after halftime, and played great.”
Hinsdale Central played two quarterbacks throughout the game, with Ben Monahan and Billy Cernugel often both playing several snaps each on the same drives and each switching off from play-to-play to attempt to confuse Naperville Central’s defense.
It didn’t work.
The Redhawks had three sacks and an interception, to keep the Red Devils’ offense in check until the final five minutes.
“We feel unique that we have two varsity caliber quarterbacks,” Hinsdale Central head coach Brian Griffin said. “That’s how we practiced. We asked them if they wanted to do series, but they wanted to do it like we practiced. I’ve never had two kids who are so humble and wants what is best for the team at the quarterback position.
“They both can run and throw. They bring little bit different skill sets but they complement each other and work hard and together. We just have to get better. Naperville Central has a great defense and executed really well. I hope we get better.”
Naperville Central will continue in week two in another non-conference game as host to a school from Meir, Wis. and Hinsdale Central will play a West Suburban Silver game at Lyons, both Friday.
• Meanwhile, in the West Suburban Silver, Glenbard West knocked off highly-ranked Marist, 33-31, Saturday afternoon, even with Glenbard West star-running back Joey Pope sidelined due to an appendectomy. Backup Julian Ellens ran for 134 yards and two touchdowns and hauled in three receptions for 108 yards and two TDs.
Lyons, Downers Grove North, York, Proviso West, and Oak Park-River Forest all won games in week one.