Leaving behind summer and starting the first of 180 school days is, needless to say, something that most of the LFHS student body was not entirely looking forward to. Once a student gets through the first few days of syllabi and lectures about what to expect over the course of the year in each particular class, there is a reward waiting for them at the end of the week: Friday. Night. Lights.

After months of training on hot summer days on the west side of town, the Lake Forest Scouts Varsity football team will finally take the field at West Campus tonight against Glenbard East at 7 PM. Here’s what you need to know about tonight’s showdown.

With a handful of players returning from last year’s varsity squad it is important to note that Lake Forest pounded Glenbard East by 24 points (30-6) last year in Lombard. Although that is a positive statistic to boast coming in, both teams’ personnel has changed since the last time they met.

Led by head coach John Walters, the Glenbard East Rams are seeking revenge after a crushing defeat in last year’s season opener and a disappointing 2-7 season overall (2-3 in the Upstate Eight Conference). This year, however, the Rams look to flip the script and capitalize on last year’s youth. Projected starting quarterback Brett Bushka will be making his second appearance on the varsity squad, this time as a junior. Bushka threw for 1,359 yards and 10 touchdowns last year and on top of that, he ran for 439 yards. According to the Daily Herald, John Walters argued, “He can do it all. He could probably return punts and kicks. He is an elite high school football player.” Another Glenbard East player to watch for is linebacker Jake Baka. As a sophomore last year, Baka made 73 tackles, second on the team only to Zach Netchin, who graduated last year. The whole team will still need to improve, especially defensively, if they hope to have a chance at knocking off the Scouts. The improved Glenbard East Rams may still be no match for the Lake Forest Scouts, especially on their home turf where they are perennially quite tough.

With plenty of returning players, some new talent, and a great amount of Scouts fans filling the bleachers for their home opener, Lake Forest should feel confident heading into tonight’s matchup. Led by senior quarterback Jack Mislinski, who converted to the position over the summer, running back Jack VanHyfte, junior wide receiver Ryan Cekay, and a very strong offensive line, the Scouts have some serious potential to put some big numbers on the scoreboard. The Scouts defense, however, stands out as well. All of their team captains are on the defensive side of the ball. Linebackers John Deering and Bryan Ooms will be players to watch for on the Lake Forest side when Bushka and Co. take the field. Other captains to watch for tonight will be Spencer Yauch on the line and Alex Moss in the secondary. The defensive backfield for the Scouts also boasts senior DB Chris Cavalaris, who returned an interception for his first career touchdown a season ago. Glenbard East’s offense does have the potential to score often, but their offensive line will have to work extra hard to give the quarterback the time he needs in the pocket, or create room for the runners to pick up some yardage on early downs. If the Scouts defense comes ready, expect to see quite a bit of three and outs, turnovers, and loss of yardage plays. Head Coach and defensive specialist Chuck Spagnoli should feel pretty comfortable with the group of guys he has heading into their season opener.

Looking at the statistics and the strengths and weaknesses of each team, I would not be surprised to see a similar result compared to last year’s game. Expect the Scouts to score 30 or more points tonight and the defense to limit the Rams’ productivity, specifically early on in the half.

All students are invited to stand in the student section, which has moved to the north end of the home bleachers next to the band. All students with a valid student ID will receive a free t-shirt. Otherwise, it will cost the very affordable price of $5. Varsity Field will be full of energy tonight. The first home football game is the best way to kick off a brand new school year. Come out to support your Lake Forest Scouts as they take on the Glenbard East Rams, which will be a thrilling matchup.

By the Numbers:

Last season’s matchup: Lake Forest: 30 Glebard East: 6

Last season’s record: Lake Forest (8-4, 4-3), Glenbard East (2-7, 2-3)

Lake Forest Players to Watch: Jack Mislinski (first career start at QB), Jack VanHyfte (returns after missing much of last season due to injury), Will Freeman (junior making first career start at safety).

Glenbard East Players to Watch: Brett Bushka (QB), Jake Baka (LB).

About the Rams:

Glenbard East High School

Mascot: Rams

Colors: Black, Red, White

Location: Lombard, Illinois

Enrollment: 2,364

Conference: Upstate Eight

Coach: John Walters (15-48, 7 yrs.)

Furthest Playoff Advancement: 1999-00 season, 6A Quarterfinalist.