The Highland Park football program is undergoing massive changes during a season known for construction projects in the Chicago area.
Second-year coach Joe Horeni has overhauled the coaching staff and added a new offense and defense this summer.
“We’re excited about some of the changes we’ve made while sticking to some familiar things we have,” Horeni said. “We’re building some good things at Highland Park.”
After finishing 3-6 last season following a 9-1 record in 2014, Horeni added new offensive coordinator Jason Newburger and former Vernon Hills head coach Tony Monken to his staff in order to infuse more experience and life into the offense. Newburger was previously the head coach at Burlington Central.
“We’re running similar stuff (in the) run game to last year when we ran Wing-T under center, but this year we will be more under the gun, and we’re excited because we have more receiving-type kids this year,” Horeni said. “Having a good balance between the run and pass is important because last year we were a little bit too run-heavy. This year, we have a nice combination of run game and passing.”
With the Giants slated to run a 3-4 defense this fall, DJ Penick has moved back to outside linebacker from safety, where he played eight games last season.
Penick gained valuable experience and leadership skills participating for the U.S. Under-18 team in the International Bowl in February. He said he’s excited about the changes on offense and defense. He rushed for 1,590 yards and scored 21 touchdowns and tallied 23 tackles, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries in his junior season.
“I’m mentally stronger and physically stronger,” he said. “I think we have more leaders this year, and all the changes that we’ve made are exciting. We’re changing it up, and the new coaching staff really helps.”
Horeni said part of the reason for the changes on offense is due to having more playmakers with multiple skills and experience on the outside to catch the ball. Wide receivers Jeremy Allen and Justin Goodman have the ability to take some pressure off Penick and the running game.
“Jeremy is a slot receiver who played wing back last year, but he can block and has really good hands, so he’s a guy we can take advantage by using his skills,” Horeni said. “Justin was basically our only wide receiver last year. He’s done really well in camp, and we’re excited to see what he can do.”
The Giants’ offensive line returns two starters, but the quarterback spot remains wide open, with two candidates vying for the position. Horeni said he’s encouraged by a talented group of juniors expected to add depth and a winning attitude from a highly successful two-year run as underclassmen.
“We have some open spots to fill, but I lucked out with the new coaching (staff), and I’m very excited,” he said. “We should be more versatile on offense and do some new things.”
Bob Narang is a freelance writer for News-Sun
