Suburban Life Most Valuable Athlete: Drew Cassens, Downers Grove North, junior, football

WHY HE WAS SELECTED:

Drew Cassens, Downers Grove North's junior quarterback, ran for 137 yards and a touchdown on 37 carries in the Trojans' 10-0 win over Downers Grove South, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Cassens talked to Suburban Life sports editor Joshua Welge about his big game, and all things football. Here is an edited version of the transcript:

Welge: Have you ever had that many carries in a game?

Cassens: I haven't had that many before. I was actually surprised when I found out I had that many. I was expecting to have my number called quite often.

Welge: Given the stakes, with the playoffs, was getting that crosstown win even sweeter?

Cassens: We knew they were talented, we knew that both teams were fighting for a playoff spot. We knew going in we needed that game. We knew going in it would be a competitive atmosphere.

Welge: What's practice like for a 4-4 team that needs a win to make the playoffs?

Cassens: It's pretty intense. Coaches are holding us to pretty high expectations. Going against a good York team, we know we have to come ready.

Welge: How many positions have you played in high school?

Cassens: Last year I played outside linebacker and safety, and a couple special teams. This year quarterback and I was going to play the same position defensively, but the last weeks I've played primarily safety.

Welge: Do you have a favorite team or player?

Cassens: I follow college football closer. I have a lot of family from Ohio, so I'm a big Buckeyes guy. [Quarterback] Dwayne Haskins is a remarkable player. [Alabama quarterback] Tua Tagovailoa is a great playmaker, I like him too.