...has outscored its opponents this year, 514-180. Throw out their four weakest opponents (teams that didn't qualify for the post-season) and the cumulative score was 320-157. The Hawks' offense averaged 42.8 points a game and 40 against teams that made the playoffs. They scored a season-high 64 points against Schaumburg in the opener and 50 against Highland Park in Week 3. Both teams appeared in the post-season. Maine South also scored 63 points against Maine West and 56 against Niles West, two teams that didn't make the playoffs. The Hawks scored only 28 points against New Trier and Oak Park in back-to-back games at the end of October. But the most important game to focus on is their 27-9 victory over Wheaton Warrenville South in Week 2. That was the fewest points they scored all season.
The Tigers (11-1) were probably the Hawks' best opponent this year and are still alive in 7A. I was at that game on a balmy September evening in Park Ridge. Maine South got off to a quick start, scoring on their first three possessions. That was pretty much the game. The score was 20-7 at the half and ended 27-9. Although senior running back Matt Perez has gotten a lot of attention this season (and rightfully so), he only scored one touchdown that night. He rushed for 150 yards on 21 carries and contributed two sacks on defense. Quarterback Tyler Benz completed 14 of 21 passes for 152 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for one touchdown and added a sack on defense. Hey Coach Inserra, sit these guys down once in a while!
The point is that Maine South's offense is not one-dimensional. Loyola must do more than just stop Perez; Benz is also a threat to run and pass. The Hawks have been a pass-happy offense going back to the years of Coach Hopkins. (I had a very pleasant conversation with him once in which we discussed this.) I've seen Benz pass to at least four receivers this year. Again, this offense has many weapons at its disposal and the Ramblers will have their hands full. Then again, Maine South hasn't faced a defense like Loyola's...
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