By Bobby Narang
Riverside-Brookfield High School football is breaking new ground this season.
The Bulldogs (7-0 and 4-0 in the Upstate Eight East) are off to their best start since the 2001 season, according to head coach Sam Styler.
The Bulldogs are two wins away from posting an undefeated record in the regular season.
The Bulldogs close the regular season by hosting West Chicago and traveling to Glenbard East.
“So far this season, we’ve come out and executed,” Styler said. “Definitely, there’s a lot of excitement in the town and school. The guys worked extremely hard to get to this point and they’ve been staying focused.
“We still have two tough games coming up and the playoffs are around the corner. We have two playoffs opponents coming up, so the guys have to stay focused. Being 7-0 is great, the best start since 2001 for the program, but we still have work to be done. We have to stay locked in. I’m proud of the way they’ve handled everything.”
Riverside-Brookfield senior Warren Mason is one of the main factors behind the resurgence.
After playing free safety and slot receiver last season, Mason is primarily a defensive player this season.
Under coach Sam Styler, the Bulldogs have focused on building a team with players who can fill one position on offense or defense, reducing fatigue and allowing players to put full effort mainly into one position.
Although Mason admitted he misses playing on offense, he can’t help but see the benefits of putting his full effort into free safety.
“I miss playing offense a little,” Mason said. “I grew up primarily as a receiver and that’s where my passion for football started, but it’s not a big concern for me because it’s not where the team need me. We have guys who do a great job there instead.”
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound Mason said he’s thrilled to play a central role for the unbeaten Bulldogs, noting his role as a captain for a team with aspirations for a long playoff run. Mason said he’s happy with his progress on defense.
“It’s a night and day difference just playing defense instead of going both ways,” he said. “I’m able to put in that extra 10 percent where I’m needed the most.”
Styler said Mason is a contributor on defense, special teams and a key leader for the younger players.
“Warren has been one of the huge factors on defense and special teams for us,” Styler said. “He blocked a punt for a safety last Friday. He does a great job at the free safety position. He does his job over the top and fills the alleys in the run game and he’s a big factor in the passing game. He’s hanging out in the middle, so teams have to be careful how they attack down the field.
“He brings a lot of energy on the defensive side and sets the tone for his teammates. He’s done a phenomenal job in the pass and run game. He has a great enthusiasm in practices and games and is a great example of what our program stands for.”
Mason said he loves playing safety, calling it the “driver’s seat of the defense.” His experience and high football IQ help him often see what the defense will do before the snap, allowing him to call it out the play before it unfolds.
Mason, who received his first offer from Maine Maritime Academy October 9, said his recruiting is trending in the right direction.
“Recruiting is going amazing,” Mason said. “I’ve been trying to cram in as many visits as possible to see where I want to play next year.”