Pantagraph sports writer Douglass Hamm the three directions the football season could go for Illinois Wesleyan.

Titan dream

Junior quarterback Kraig Ladd and standout senior wide receiver Martin Ceisel are the featured acts in an aerial show that spreads the defense and scores points in bunches. Sophomore Bo Lanter emerges as a solid running threat and helps keep opposing defenses honest.

Speaking of defense, IWU's speedy unit answers the skeptics who question whether the Titans can replace seven graduated seniors. The Titans fly around the field and overcome their lack of size with an aggressive, blitzing style.

While they play two of their first three games on the road, the Titans enter their Oct. 4 College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin opener against Carthage with a 3-0 record and a wave of momentum.

If IWU can survive back-to-back road games against league powers North Central and Wheaton in early November, the regular-season finale against North Park could culminate with a second straight CCIW coronation at Wesleyan Stadium.

Titan nightmare

Injuries are always a concern, but IWU should have the depth to avoid any letdowns at every position except the defensive backfield. If the defensive line can't put any pressure on the quarterback, the untested secondary could be exploited. A defense built on speed and quickness also proves vulnerable against power teams.

The high-powered offense can't score if it doesn't get the football. If the Titans can't establish a running game, the passing game could become predictable and much less of a threat.

Although the Titans bounced back from a 1-2 start last season, a loss to Hope in Saturday's season opener at Holland, Mich., could set a bad tone for a team with lofty ambitions.

IWU got back on track last season after three straight 3-7 campaigns, and there's no reason to believe the winning ways won't continue. This team believes it can win, which wasn't always the case during the down period.

The Titans will be a force offensively, especially if Lanter gets untracked. IWU's defense still has to prove itself, but the unit should improve as the season progresses and make enough plays to take some of the pressure off the offense.

North Central and Wheaton are the CCIW favorites, but IWU should be in the mix although several teams will be looking for payback after last year's turnaround. Another 7-3 record, or even better, is an attainable goal.