A very young and inexperienced Kaneland team started last year 4-0 and made the playoffs.

Starters return in 17 positions this year as expectations are high for what is now an experienced and explosive team.

“The main thing is we’re all smarter,” senior defensive back and running back Carter Grabowski said. “We’re all playing our positions for the second year or maybe third year in a row. Everyone just looks on key. Last year was a lot about learning and getting into position and now I think we’re hitting the ground running.”

Grabowski was a key weapon for the Knights last year, finishing third in tackles and leading the team in rushing.

Kaneland coach Michael Thorgesen, entering his third year, said Grabowski has developed even more during the offseason.

“He was always a really goo

See Full Page