Nazareth Academy, the defending 2018 7A state champions travel to Lisle to face off against Benet Academy. Despite the hot start that the Redwings had to their season, they ride a two game losing streak in to the Saturday morning match up.
First Half
Opening drive for Naz and QB J.J. McCarthy runs out and throws it deep… only for Benet’s Will Benish to pick it off in the end zone, ending the Roadrunners opening drive.
Ensuing drive for the Redwings. QB Michael O’Connor dropping a deep pass to Lucas Kosiba and he makes the one on one catch for a big yard gain but Benet would miss a field goal a few plays later, still 0s on the board.
Still in the first half, McCarthy looking, throws a screen to Tyler Morris. He gives a little shimmy, breaks away from the defenders and is golden. He goes 32 yards to the endzone, Naz up 7-0 late in the first.
Second quarter of play now, O’Connor looking, throws another deep ball.. but turns out Morris can also play defense and picks off O’Connors pass.
It’s just a game of interception in the first half… The roadrunners would give the ball right back to the wins as McCarthy throws a pick to Marty Garvin. Benet would walk in to the locker room trailing just 7-0 at half.
Second Half
In the third quarter is where things start to get messy for BA. After a bad snap over Kevin Lorenzl’s head, he tried to punt but it doesn’t go very far and Naz now holds great field position.
And they would take advantage. First and goal for the runners and Derrick Strong punches in the 3 yard run to double Nazareth’s 14-0 early in the third.
Still in the third and we are back to the interception game. O’Connor, with the deep ball… right to Alex Carrillo, stopping Benet’s chance of scoring once more.
The roadrunners defense showing how they won state last year. They get more love up front as Marcus Griffin brings down O’Connor for the sack and a big loss for the wings.
Nazareth’s defense also showing off their talents. McCarthy pulls out and finds Morris for his second touchdown of the night. Roadrunners cruising now 27-0.
Benet would find the end zone with Nick Johnson and a 21 yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter but this game was all Nazareth from the start as the roadrunners stay undefeated, 27-8. Glenbard North awaits Benet in the first round of playoffs next week.
Check out other football games in our Boys Sports Highlights!
