Naperville Central at Lake Park

When: 7:30 tonight.

Last week: Naperville Central lost to Waubonsie Valley 28-21; Lake Park beat Conant 16-13.

What to expect: Better balance from a Central offense that tilted too much toward the pass during last week's loss to Waubonsie Valley. As the Wildcats drained the clock throughout the first half, Redhawks coach Mike Stine, staring at a 14-0 deficit, began the calculations: How many more possessions are left in this game? The situation influenced Central's play calling, and quarterback Harrison Daniels wound up throwing the ball 32 times, more than Stine would like.

"We have to increase our running game," the coach said. "We know we can throw the ball, but we can't live and die by the pass."

To create a new tempo, look for Mike Caulfield, who led the Redhawks with 55 rushing yards on 15 carries, to play an increased role. The emphasis would then place the senior in the cross hairs of a Lake Park defense that allowed Conant about 80 total yards.

The Central coaching staff, given a rare Friday night off last week, was able to scout that game in Hoffman Estates. But the surcharge for that intelligence came in the form of a short week to prepare for Lake Park. The tilt with Waubonsie swallowed Saturday, and the junior varsity game that followed two days later limited the time for Central to make dramatic adjustments during practice.

That faith in Central's inexperienced defense was challenged by a grinding Waubonsie attack that rang up 403 total yards in the season opener.

"Last week was just like a test," cornerback Jeremy Jones said. "Now we need to see what we need to build upon."

The working theory is that Central's offense first needs to generate some sustained drives to keep its defense off the field. Then the Redhawks expect to find a better matchup against Lake Park. The Lancers won't enjoy the significant size advantage Waubonsie did, and they will run more toward the perimeter, allowing Central to more efficiently use its team speed.

Last year Lake Park capitalized on three Central fumbles to score a 17-14 victory, part of an 0-3 start that could have snuffed out the Redhawks' playoff hopes. Instead, Central reversed its fortunes on the way to an 8-4 finish. Whether that's true inspiration or false confidence, the question will begin to be answered tonight.

With lineman Josh Jelesky still suspended, Jones remains the defense's only returning starter. In a quiet moment before practice, Jones hinted that some of the swagger remains.

"I know they'll be ready to play, cause we're Naperville Central," Jones said matter-of-factly.

The Sun's pick: Central.