Sun-Times Ranks Hinsdale Central Football No. 16 in State

has the 16th-best football team in the state heading into the 2012 season, according to the Sun-Times' "Super 25" countdown.

A year after helping the Red Devils return to the IHSA 8A playoffs in 2011, senior quarterback Brian Owens will have the starting spot to himself this year. 

"Among Owens’ targets will be Ian Bunting, a 6-6, 195-pound junior who was clocked at 4.65 in the 40 this summer, and seniors John Claussen, Joe Herr and and Joe Monat," Sun-Times football writer Mike Clark's preview reads. "Junior Chase Hamilton, who’s expected to take over at quarterback next season, also could get into the receiver rotation."

Senior running Jack Adams, who had an injury-hampered 2011, will get touches out of the backfield along with junior Ben Stefani.

A strong offensive line, Clark writes, will give the offense the ability to develop.

"The guys up front are junior center Brian Allen (6-2, 272), also one of the state’s best wrestlers, and four seniors: right guard Chris Wilson (6-3, 285), right tackle Joe Morrison (6-3, 270), left guard Chris Kallas (6-0, 265) and left tackle Nick Piker (6-4, 275)," the article reads. 

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And the defense isn't too shabby, either.

"Among those to watch are senior linebacker Andrew Pyle (6-2, 210), last year’s defensive MVP; junior linebacker Jacob White (6-1, 205); senior linebacker Jack McGann (6-2, 210); senior nose tackle Peter Nelson (5-9, 260) and senior end Brett Goss (6-0, 200)," Clark writes.

Read the full Sun-Times story here.

The 2012 season will be the second for head coach Rich Tarka.

, 28-14, in the first round of the playoffs last seaosn. 

The Red Devils open the 2012 regular season schedule with a home game against St. Charles North on Aug. 24.