Bob Narang, Special to the Tribune

Hinsdale Central followed the correct formula Aug. 27 in its attempt to knock off defending Class 7A champion Wheaton Warrenville South in its season opener.
 
The Red Devils played aggressive defense, sacking Wheaton Warrenville South quarterback Reilly O’Toole three times and forcing four straight punts in the first half.
 
They didn’t commit a turnover until a late fourth-quarter interception, and they forced the Tigers to become a one-dimensional team early in the game by stopping the run.
 
The Tigers showed their championship pedigree by making some key adjustments and capitalizing on the Red Devils’ missed opportunities by the Red Devils to post a 28-7 victory. The Red Devils Hinsdale Central won’t miss playing Wheaton Warrenville South the Tigers in the regular season after losing all four games of the four-year series.
 
“We showed a lot of really good things,” said Hinsdale Central coach Mike DiMatteo said. “Nobody wants to lose, for crying out loud, but these guys fought hard. I have no issues. We played the best team in the state, by far.”
 
The Red Devils lost by 21 points but gained some confidence by holding the powerful Tigers to 14 points through the first three quarters.
 
Hinsdale Central defensive lineman Mike Kaesler, who had two sacks, caused problems for O’Toole most of the game with his pressure en route to finishing with two sacks. Linebacker Andrew Pyle added another sack.
 
The Red Devils get a chance to even their record when they head to Proviso East Sept. 4.