College Football Recruiting: Naperville North's Danny Puknaitis Strong Rusher

During Naperville North's Friday showdown against Thornton, senior running back Danny Puknaitis ran like there was no tomorrow. 

The 5'10", 185-pound student athlete rushed for 173 yards on 22 carries and a touchdown, helping the Huskies (1-1) overcome 10 offensive penalties and a non-existent passing game to give North a 14-10 victory over Thornton. 

The Wildcats' secondary prevented Naperville North from establishing a passing game, as the Huskies attempted only five passes. North head coach Sean Drendel said Thornton covers well because of its superior pass rush led by junior safety Jalen Banks, a top college prospect. 

Without help from his receivers, Puknaitis bullied his way to six runs of 10 or more yards, including a 42-yard rumble setting up an easy touchdown the following play. 

"Danny's probably our emotional leader," Drendel said. "He is one of the hardest working players you will ever find. He's going to battle and fight for every yard he can get." 

Puknaitis is a second-year varsity letterman who also had a solid performance against Neuqua Valley Aug. 26, going for 97 yards and a score. 

Puknaitis said he hopes to play collegiate football, looking at Division I and II programs like Drake and Valparaiso

"If I get recruited to a program, I will bring speed, leadership and competitive drive," said Puknaitis, who was the Chicago Tribune's Player of the Game.  

Bob Bajek is a freelance reporter and can be followed at Patch.com and Twitter.