We just didn't have the firepower last year. I want to be able to strike quickly, but I also want to be able to control the ball.

We need to get those two games and build some confidence.

I don't have to repeat anything this year. I tell him what to run and there's no questions about whether it will work or not. He's a senior now and much more confident, a leader.

We have linebackers this year who will hit and tackle you. We have to be able to stop the run and establish it ourselves.

I think we will be able to establish the running game. If you can't, defenses put seven or eight guys on the line and really come after you.

Our defense has to be good to compete in the West Suburban Silver. We have the best four defensive linemen in the Silver.