Highland Secures First Win with Stellar Defense and Key Performances

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Highland senior defensive end Jace Harris significantly impacted the game against Whiting on Friday. Early in the first series, Harris tackled an opposing player for a loss. On the same possession, he pressured the quarterback, leading to an errant pass.

Harris, who stands at 6-foot and weighs 280 pounds, also plays on the Trojans’ offensive line. Reflecting on his performance, he said, “I felt I did well getting off the ball on defense and making tackles. My O-line and D-line gave their all. It starts with us in the trenches.” He emphasized his commitment to contributing as much as possible for his team.

Harris’ contributions helped the Trojans achieve their first victory under interim coach Jimmy McCormack with a commanding 50-7 win. During his first season at Highland, after transferring from Crete-Monee in Illinois, he recorded 54 tackles, including 12 for loss, and made the Class 4A junior all-state team. In the game against Whiting, Harris collected three tackles for loss.

Jace is a great player, an incredible ballplayer for us. — Jimmy McCormack, Interim Coach

After a tough start against Griffith, seeing Harris’ usual performance was a relief for Coach McCormack. Previously a backup at Crete-Monee as a freshman, Harris emerged as an all-conference defensive lineman and, later, contributed on the offensive line, a position he hadn’t played since middle school. “It was challenging to return to offense,” Harris admitted, “but with the help from coach Mac, coach Geffert, and my teammates, I adapted well to the new beginning at Highland.”

Junior quarterback Aaron McCormack praised Harris, recognizing his significant contributions since joining the team. Harris’ energy and skills are valuable to the program.

In addition to Harris’ performance, freshman wide receiver Jonathon Lee made an immediate impact. He returned the opening kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown despite initially mishandling the ball. Lee also caught two passes for 33 yards, showcasing his ability to turn short receptions into significant yardage.

Whiting’s score came from a 76-yard touchdown run by junior quarterback/running back Julian Madrueno in the fourth quarter. This prevented Highland from securing their first shutout since the 2022 postseason and their first regular-season shutout since 2021. Highland maintains a six-game winning streak against Whiting since resuming the series in 2021.

The victory carried special weight for Jimmy McCormack, a 2010 Morton graduate and experienced assistant coach. Reflecting on his team’s performance, McCormack expressed pride in their dedication and physicality. “I wanted them to compete for four quarters and wear the opponent down,” he said. “The scoreboard shows they did an excellent job.”