Game Preview: Downers Grove North vs. Downers Grove South

    The Downers Grove North Trojans were unable to hold on to their perfect record last week against the Lyons Township Lions, falling 31-0. Although the loss to the Lions may have set the Trojans back and taken away some of their momentum, they have a perfect opportunity to redeem themselves this week, against their sister school, Downers Grove South.

    Returning home this week should help the Trojans do well against the Mustangs, who lost last week against Leyden. The Eagles were able to come out on top of the Mustangs 27-21, which added to the Mustangs losing record. The Trojans will see the Mustangs come out very strong after that loss, as they try to pick up their second victory of the season in this cross-town matchup.

    Last season, the Trojans traveled to Mustang Stadium with a 1-3 record, while the Mustangs went into play with a perfect 4-0 record. The Trojans defense could not stop the Mustangs strong offense, highlighted by quarterback A.J. Simoncelli and running back Josh Williams, which lead to a Mustangs victory, 24-14.

    This season is a little bit of a different story, and the records seem to be reversed. The Trojans are entering this game with a 3-1 record, while the Mustangs have struggled to win a game this year, holding a 1-3 record. This game would be a great opportunity for the Mustangs to win another game, but, at the same time, it would be a great chance for the Trojans to get back on track and win another game.

Keys to the Game:

    The Trojans are coming into this game after being shut out by Lyons Township last week. Up to that point, the Trojans had been undefeated, and wanted to show everybody that they have what it takes to compete in the West Suburban Silver Conference. On the other hand, the Mustangs come into this game with the worst record they have had in recent history, and the Trojans will look to take advantage of any mistake that the Mustangs make. The pressure is on the Mustangs in this game to make good plays and not make any errors. We can expect the Trojans to look very strong, and watch the Mustangs closely. Even the smallest error could cost the Mustangs the game.

    Even though the Trojans lost last week, they still have a strong team. Last week, it was mentioned that Lyons Township was going to watch quarterback David Edwards very closely, and try to rush him. The Mustangs will be coming into this game looking to do the same thing, and rush not only Edwards, but the entire offense. The offense needs to stay on their toes and watch for a quick play or sneak attack from the Mustangs, because they will try to force errors from the Trojans.

         This year, the cross-town match-up is going to be held at Carsten’s Field, which helps the Trojans a lot. While both schools are going to be represented equally at this game, it is still at Downers North, and the momentum will help the Trojans fight hard. Cross-town games always have more energy associated with them, but with the Trojans having the best record they have had in a long time, the North crowd will be cheering loud.

Time for Predictions:

    Looking at this game on paper, the Trojans should come away with the victory. The Trojans have a state ranking of #141, while the Mustangs are ranked at #214. The Trojans will not get an easy win this week, but they should be able to come out on top of the Mustangs, and improve their record to 4-1.

Game Time:

    This game will take place on Friday, Sept. 21 at Downers Grove North High School in Downers Grove, Ill. This game will be broadcasted live on WDGC 88.3 FM in Downers Grove.