Our very own Ian M. Ryan did a spectacular job covering Oak Forest last weekend.
Quarterbacks and Running Backs Coach, Scott Johnson, explained the performance best:
“We earned this one, but we want more.”
Oak Forest did indeed earn this win as they defeated Champaign Centennial 38-12. The Oak Forest defense was my question mark this game as they had given up 34 points to Hillcrest just two weeks prior, but the defense overwhelmed Champaign tremendously. All Conference players Andrew Dawson and Chris Jensen both had sacks and were relentless on the rush. Dawson had an interception as well as a pass deflection. Jason Keating, Bryce Hoffman, and Kevin Sullivan also put up great coverage on passes.
The defense only gave up 6 points, the other touchdown scored was on a fumble that the Chargers took to the house. This Oak Forest defense reminded me of the Seahawks “Legion of Boom” teams.
Their defensive backs are solid but once in a while give up a big play, their linebackers are truly game changing, and it’s nearly impossible to run up the middle against this defensive line. The defense was fantastic in round 1. They’re gritty, and I talked to Andrew Dawson about that mentality and he told me:
“There’s no fear in this team, nerves are different than fear. There were some nerves, but we know who we are, and we can beat anybody.”
The defense may have been overpowering, but the offense was grueling to the Champaign defense. I heard countless times “GET TO THE LINE!” Oak Forest wanted to wear the defense down. And they did. The no huddle offense was explosive as Will McMaster plowed into the end zone multiple times, Ethan Copher found the end zone on a nicely done end around, and Ryan Kruswicki scored on a long passing play from Danny Chopp. The Bengal offense was in control on the front line, giving the rushing attack an ability to do whatever they wanted.
After the game I spoke with Will McMaster, and I asked him about his gritty play style. McMaster told me:
“I do this for my family, my friends… if they’re going to come out here and watch me, I’m going to put on a show for them.”
He didn’t mention Oak Forest alum, Tevin Coleman when I asked who he tried to emulate his game after, but he mentioned Todd Gurley and Tavon Austin, both former gritty NFL players who did anything to get an extra yard.
I also spoke with Conference Player of the Year, Danny Chopp, about his grinder mentality and he told me:
“Playing my game is making the right reads, knowing my guys, and keeping them up (in energy). I don’t force anything.”
Neiko Leflore, despite not getting into the end zone, had a tremendous first half. Numerous receptions and a few runs resulting in first downs and continuing drives. This team is full of players who put team over self. A common theme in all of the responses I got from players. Dawson, Chopp, McMaster, Copher, and Colin Crotty talked about playing hard for the team. No Bengal player talked about themselves; it was actually shocking to see these young men focusing on the team instead of their own personal glory.
On the other side of the field, Head Coach Kyle Jackson led his Champaign Centennial team to a 5-4 regular season record despite losing numerous starters from last year’s team, and in this game against OFHS, losing starting quarterback Ty Hunt in the beginning of the third quarter with a hand injury, and backup Shamir Clark to an undisclosed injury. The Chargers actually played very well in the second half, holding Oak Forest to a touchdown, while the Chargers scored on a scoop and score fumble recovery. Elliott “EK” Kato had a good reception after Ty Hunt scrambled out of the pocket, and AJ Wilson scored on a pass from Hunt over the middle that fooled Oak Forest’s linebackers. I will say, this team is young, they’re disciplined, and well coached. I reached out to Coach Jackson for a statement but didn’t hear back. I do see this team being successful next season.
Bengals’ First Year Head Coach Zac Sadek told his team after the game, “This is the rollercoaster of a lifetime, and you only get to ride once. You determine how long it lasts.” Oak Forest plays Bloomington at home on Saturday, November 8th at 2pm to determine if this roller coaster will indeed last another week.
Champaign Centennial begins focusing on next season and getting better after what I would consider a successful season after a big roster turnover.
To see Ian M. Ryan’s OFHS hype video, check out this link
Stay tuned for more about the IHSA State Football playoffs.
All photos were taken by Ian M. Ryan
Good read! Tell Coleman not to think of his game like Tavon Austin, though. Had to add some rivalry banter when I saw that part. Go Pitt!
Hahahaha I love that rivalry mentality Zane!