Progress Report: Glenbard North motivated to bounce back from rare 0-9 season

Glenbard North football coach Ryan Wilkens is ready for the season to start.

After the Panthers lost all nine games last season — going winless for only the second time in program history — Wilkens is excited for a fresh start.

Under Wilkens, the Panthers have been accustomed to winning and producing big-time athletes. San Diego Chargers running back Justin Jackson is among the many standouts to play under Wilkens. Two former Panthers — wide receiver Jace James and defensive back Greg Newsome II — are currently on Northwestern's’ roster.

Wilkens admitted the 0-9 season was tough for the coaching staff and players to endure, but the returnees are motivated to bring back glory to the football program.

“We want to focus on finishing this year,” Wilkens said. “Just looking at last year, as a staff and program, finishing plays out and games out is a key.”

The Panthers were a perennial playoff team in the DuPage Valley Conference, though their inaugural season in the DuKane Conference was unforgettable— seven losses. The return of seven starters on offense and seven on defense bodes well for Wilkens’ crew. Glenbard North opened some eyes in June by winning the Red Grange 7-on-7 at Wheaton Warrenville South. The Panthers also took second in the linemen challenge.

“We have some good experience [back], so that’s been helpful,” Wilkens said. “We had a very nice summer and we have a lot of skill guys on offense and defense.”

Senior quarterback Mike Vazquez benefited from another offseason learning the offense. The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder endured a tough learning curve last season against the Panthers’ loaded schedule.

The Panthers’ run-based offense should be upgraded due to an improved offensive line and the development of Vazquez.

“Michael’s come a long way this summer, and he will be the leader of our offense again,” Wilkens said. “He’s understanding of the offense is better, he has a quick release and his composure will help us. He’s more comfortable with his position.

Head coach: Ryan Wilkens.

Last year's record: 0-9.

Biggest Question

How will the Panthers respond after losing all nine games last season?

The Panthers’ schedule played a big part in many tough losses. Six of the nine losses were to teams with at least five wins. Warren, Batavia, St. Charles North and Wheaton Warrenville South all won a minimum of 10 games. Glenbard North’s other three defeats came against programs — Wheaton North, Lake Park and Geneva — that have produced numerous college athletes through the years.

An improved offense and solid secondary should help the Panthers. The strength of the 4-3 defense, Wilkens, said lies in the back seven. The secondary is solid as the defense must improve after allowing 267 points last season.

Player to Watch

Vazquez is one of the leaders on the team. He’s motivated to avoid another long season filled with losses. Wilkens said a strong cast of wide receivers and running backs and three returning starters on the offensive line will aid his quarterback.

Wide receivers Kobie Jamison and Rory Hills and running backs Angelo Cusumano and Jordan McQuarter give Vazquez more weapons to attack opposing defenses. Left guard Jahquell Reese, right tackle Ben Voigts and center Johnny Cassidy are the three returning offensive line starters.

“Mike’s understanding of the playbook and timing and leadership are so much better,” Wilkens said. “With that core of wide receivers and running backs we have back, that should really help our offense.”

Newcomer You Need to Know

Junior Miguel Galvez is a hard player to miss on the field. At 6-foot-4 and 285 pounds, Galvez is slated to help out on the offensive and defensive lines. Galvez did not play on the varsity last season.

“For a kid his size, he’s become more athletic and can shore up the offensive line and we will put him on defense,” Wilkens said. “He can take on double teams, is a tough kid to move and plays well with his hands.”

Schedule analysis

The 2019 schedule is filled with tough matchups. The Panthers host Neuqua Valley in the opener, travel to Warren and open up conference play at home against St. Charles East.

A critical two-game homestand against Wheaton North and Lake Park is essential to win for the Panthers since they play St. Charles North and Wheaton North on the road the following two weeks before ending the regular season against Geneva.

“The first two games will set the tone of the rest of the season,” Wilkens said. “Neuqua Valley is very good and so is Warren., Our focus right now is Neuqua Valley. Once we get into conference play, there are no off weekends.”

An Early Take

The Panthers play two of their first three games at home before hitting the road to play powerhouse Batavia in Week 4. If they can win two of their first three games, the Panthers can build off that start to possibly compete in the conference slate. A bad start could spiral the Panthers down the same path as last season.