By Bobby Narang
Four weeks into the high school football season, the West Suburban Conference Silver Division race is heating up.
The biggest surprise this season is the strong play of upstart York High School.
After finishing with a 4-5 record last season, the Dukes, 3-1 and 2-0, are on top of the standings due to York’s being the only team that has won both conference games. The Dukes gained a major victory by defeating, Lyons, 17-3, Friday, to set up an enticing showdown at Glenbard West, 4-0 and 1-0, at 1 p.m. Saturday in Glen Ellyn.
Second-year York head coach Mike Fitzgerald admitted his team is excited about playing the Hilltoppers, one of the top programs in the State since Chad Hetlet took over as head coach. The Hilltoppers rely on a strong running game, led by Jalen Moore and Joey Richmond, and a hard-hitting defense to punish opponents. This year, Glenbard West has outscored opponents, 208-36.
“In our Conference, every week is big,” Fitzgerald said. “That’s what I like about it. If you can get through our Conference, you will be battle-tested and ready for the playoffs. You have to keep your approach the same every week.
“Great football teams can stop the run, and can run the football well. It’s important for us to move the chains and keep our defense off the field as much as possible. Matching their physicality, taking care and protecting the football, and eliminating the big plays are important. They have some dynamic players who can break tackles.”
• Hinsdale Central, 4-0 and 1-0, nearly didn’t field a football team this year due to budget cuts, but the Red Devils have washed away their offseason issues to have a breakout season. After an upset victory over Naperville Central in their opener, the Red Devils have defeated Morton, Hinsdale South, and Oak Park-River Forest, to enter Friday’s showdown against Downers Grove North, 3-1 and 1-1 as one of the hottest teams in the West Suburban area.