Learning from last year’s defensive shortcomings, the Lions football team took the opportunity afforded by the offseason to institute a new defensive package, switching from a four-man to a three-man front that will utilize five linebackers instead of three. Combined with a thoroughly experienced lineup, the team looks to this new defensive strategy to lead to a successful season and optimal postseason results.

“Our hope every year is to try and win conference,” captain Joe Dillon `15 said. “As for now though, we’re going to go one game at a time, and focus on winning each one of those games.”

The switch was made to provide for more speed on the field and allowed for more players to be on every tackle, Varsity Head Coach Kurt Weinberg said.

“It just changes the whole defensive philosophy from conservative to very aggressive,” Dillon said. “We always have pressure in the backfield.”

Defensive strength stemming from this revamped strategy has made a massive contribution to the team’s success thus far, as they managed to hold each of their opponents to under 30 points in their first three games.

Led by returning starters like Dante Stefanini `15, Aaron Smith `15 and Dillon, the defense showcased its ability on Sept. 12 in the out-of-conference game against Leyden, shutting out the Eagles and making three sacks in the process.

With a line-up full of experienced players from last year, this year’s team has a degree chemistry that allows them to work well together, captain Blaze Nacker `15 said.

While totaling over 350 yards of offense during its Aug. 29 season opener against Warren Township High School, the offense was crippled by penalties and four turnovers, preventing the team from converting drives into touchdowns and ultimately leading to the 17-14 loss.

“We just missed too many opportunities during that game,” Weinberg said.

Learning from mistakes early on, the team proceeded to correct its offensive miscues in a 25-21 victory over Willowbrook High School on Sept. 5.

The following week, the Lion’s dominant performance against Leyden, highlighted by three rushing touchdowns from Division I-bound Leonard Ross `15, demonstrated the offensive potential the team holds.

“We just have to play to our potential and execute when we have the opportunity,” Nacker said.

The team will play its first conference game Sept. 20 away against rival Glenbard West.

“I’m sure it’s going to be a tough, physical game,” Weinberg said. “As always, they’re going to play fast and hit hard.”