Class 8A: Downers S. (11-2) vs. Naperville C. (13-0)
Kickoff: 7 p.m. TV: WYCC-Ch. 20
Downers S. offense vs. Naperville C. defense
Nobody has run well or scored much against Naperville's
first-team defense, which has given up 30 points in four playoff
games. Watch All-State linebacker Mike Lucas.
EDGE: NAPERVILLE CENTRAL
Naperville C. offense vs. Downers S. defense
Pick your poison. Central can burn you with running back Jason
Paquette, who is averaging 200 yards rushing and three touchdowns a
game, or quarterback Phil Horvath with 2,104 yards passing and 21
touchdowns.
EDGE: NAPERVILLE CENTRAL
Special teams
Although Naperville Central is competent with punter Horvath and
placekicker Chris Szatko, Downers South's Kris Coffee has converted
7-of-9 field goals, with a long from 39 yards, and is averaging 35
yards per punt.
EDGE: DOWNERS SOUTH
Intangibles
Naperville Central won it all two years ago and was headed for a
repeat before losing its best players to injuries. Downers South is
thriving with its underdog mentality.
EDGE: NAPERVILLE CENTRAL
