Playoffs – Round 1: IL Stars of the Weekend (Part 1)
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The following 5 prospects from the Land of Lincoln put up monster performances in the first round of the IHSA Playoffs. Arthur Palicki IL #126 QB #6 HEIGHT 6'4" WEIGHT 215 POS QB CLASS 2024 View Profile Arthur Palicki Twitter…
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Continue ReadingThe following 5 prospects from the Land of Lincoln put up monster performances in the first round of the IHSA Playoffs.
The senior quarterback opened up the playoffs with an exciting night, totaling over 400 yards and 3 touchdowns. 350 of his yards came through the air, as Palicki’s arm strength and pocket presence were on display all night in a Round 1 win over Yorkville. Additionally, Palicki showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing the ball for 91 yards on 21 carries. Standing at 6’4 and weighing 215 lbs, Palicki has the size, athleticism, and arm talent to help Willowbrook make a deep run in the playoffs. They take on Hononegah in Rockton this Saturday.
Highlights
Luke Leverett
Luke Leverett
The junior playmaker made a name for himself in the opening round of the playoffs, tying a state record for interceptions in a single playoff game. Leverett tallied 3 on the day and added a 4th on a failed 2 point conversion by Morton. Providence went on to upset Morton 21-14. The 5’9 safety possesses polished technique, fluid hips, and the ability to read the quarterback’s vision and make plays on the ball. All of his interceptions on Saturday came by breaking on the ball and undercutting throws to take it the other way. Leverett showcased high football IQ and impressive ball skills that directly contributed to the Celtics upset win.
The senior Kaneland athlete has been getting the job done in a variety of ways this season. DeBlasio shares time at both running back and wide receiver. Most of his heavy lifting came from the backfield in a first round win over Riverside-Brookfield. DeBlasio tallied 157 yards on the ground, while adding 5 total touchdowns (4 of which were rushing). The 6’0, 170 prospect was impressive with his breakaway speed, ability to break tackles, and showcased soft hands when receiving the ball. Kaneland is loaded with talent, and DeBlasio’s versatility will continue to shine throughout the playoffs.
Highlights
Matt Shannon
Matt Shannon
While Jacobs suffered a loss in the opening round, Shannon stood out on both sides of the ball. The senior offensive and defensive lineman has been an anchor for the Golden Eagles’ stout rushing attack all season. Jacobs once again impressed with 256 total rushing yards. At guard, Shannon showcased the ability to fire off the ball and move defensive linemen backwards. He blocks with great physicality and possesses plus athleticism. Defensively, Shannon totaled 7 tackles, 2 of which were for loss. While his high school career ended last weekend, Shannon is sure to earn an opportunity to play at the next level.
Haiden Janke
Haiden Janke
The 6’1, 205 lb senior running back was impressive in Huntley’s win over Niles West. Janke rushed for 152 yards and 3 touchdowns on 32 carries. He has been a workhorse for the Red Raiders all season, as the bruising tailback has a downhill rushing style that almost guarantees 3+ yards per carry. Janke is difficult to bring down between the tackles, as his quick burst and low center of gravity allows him to drag defenders with him as he gains plus yardage. As Huntley takes on St. Ignatius on Friday, Janke’s physical rushing style will be on display all night.