Bob Narang

Downers Grove North junior Kevin Jay ran for three touchdowns and also threw for a score in relief of Minnesota recruit Owen Lansu, and the Trojans beat Downers Grove South 55-13 for their 11th straight win in the crosstown series.

Glenbard West junior quarterback AJ Rayford makes a memorable debut in his first game after transferring from Providence, Hinsdale Central's eye-opening Week 1 rout of West Aurora, plus notes on Lyons and Montini in Bob Narang's Suburban Life football notebook.

Lyons two-way lineman Roman Sosnovyy waited his turn to be a senior captain. Senior linebacker Patrick Cheney is excited for his last shot to make an impact for the Lions. They're leaders of a senior class aiming even higher after Lyons' historic 11-1 season in 2024.

Downers Grove North senior quarterback Owen Lansu’s legacy is still unfinished. A three-year starter, Lansu has already put his name among the best players in Downers Grove North program history. Heading into his final season he's eyeing a state title to cement his status.

York senior Hunter Stepanich, a rare three-sport athlete committed to play both football and volleyball at Princeton, is poised for an expanded role this season. The 6-foot-7 Stepanich and the Dukes are looking to build off last year's Class 8A championship game appearance.

A three-time state champion and Division I prospect, Nazareth senior receiver Trenton Walker has been an integral player for the Roadrunners for the majority of his career. But Walker is adjusting to a new position as fall practice began on Monday – senior leader.

Downers Grove South senior Joseph Vieyra has prided himself on playing a multitude of positions, and last season played strong safety, but also played running back, long snapper, holder, kick returner and even punted a few times. He's a key returner for the Mustangs this fall.

Lemont senior Jackson Dybcio is ready to show off his all-around skills this season. After playing primarily at safety and inside linebacker the last two seasons, Dybcio is slated to take more reps at running back for Lemont this fall.

Riverside-Brookfield senior forward Colin Cimino is on the right track toward a promising future in hoops. He gained valuable experience last season for the Bulldogs, carving his teeth on the varsity with several starts in the second half.

Montini senior Isaac Alexander is looking to double his impact this season as a running back and safety, and eager to help the defending Class 3A state champion Broncos make another run in the state playoffs and Chicago Catholic League.

Glenbard West senior Josh Abushanab showcased his improved game during the spring and summer, and now appears poised to take the next step to lead the Hilltoppers

Plainfield Central isn't dwelling on last year's 0-9 season. Instead, the Wildcats are using it for motivation, led by breakout candidates such as Torrance Freeman and Tommy Morrisette.

Downers Grove North senior Oliver Thulin has a good grasp of the recent history of the football program, the third Thulin brother to play for the Trojans. Now he is set to make a bigger mark as a two-way standout at wide receiver and defensive back.

Downers Grove North junior Colin Doyle is set to make his mark another sport this season. An established pitcher in baseball with next-level potential, the 6-foot-6 Doyle is looking to make waves in basketball. He was one of the Trojans' standouts during the June period.

Glenbard East senior guard Michael Nee is one of several experienced returners from last year's Upstate Eight Conference and regional champs. After an impressive 27-2 June, the Rams are ready to make noise this coming season.