From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Morgan Park Wins City Championship
Morgan Park beats Kenwood to claim Chicago's city championship in Public League Red.
In brief
Morgan Park beats Kenwood to claim Chicago's city championship in Public League Red. Morgan Park's Darrell Mattison interception and Ronald Smith Jr.'s touchdown passes secured a 24-14 victory over Kenwood in the Public League Red championship game. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Morgan Park beats Kenwood
Morgan Park's Darrell Mattison interception in the third quarter secured a 24-14 victory over Kenwood in the Public League Red championship game.
“It wasn't easy. Some interceptions can be made by just about any football player, or at least a receiver or defensive back.”
Mattison's key play
Mattison, a 6-2 safety committed to Mississippi, leaped high to grab the interception, slamming down on his back before getting back on his feet.
“I just had to go up and get the ball and be a ball hawk and get an interception and make a play for my team.”
Morgan Park's lead
Morgan Park trailed Kenwood at halftime but Mattison's play sparked a 24-14 win with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Ronald Smith Jr. to Travezz Jones.
“That was surreal. They called my number, and it was go time.”
Smith's performance
Ronald Smith Jr. completed 15 of 22 passes for 178 yards with three touchdowns and one interception, including a two-point conversion.
“That first drive was kind of relieving for us all.”
Bland's final score
Jaxon Bland scored the winning touchdown with 2:42 left in the game after Smith connected with him on a seven-yard pass.
“They called my number, and it was go time.”
Kenwood's first drive
Kenwood scored on their first play from scrimmage with a 78-yard touchdown pass from Malachi Henegan to Lawrence Carr.
“They do a lot of play action that we saw on film.”
Public League structure
This was the Public League's first Red Conference championship game, pitting the Shield division winner against the Star division winner.
“This is the city championship.”
City championship status
Morgan Park coach Chris James called the win the city championship, noting the Prep Bowl has historically been the city's top team.
“They are tagging it as the conference championship because of the history and tradition of the Prep Bowl.”
CPS officials' concerns
CPS officials are nervous about calling Morgan Park the city champion due to the Prep Bowl's historical significance.
“CPS officials are just nervous about calling it the city championship because of the tradition of the league.”
Players' perspective
Morgan Park players are focused on the win, with Ronald Smith saying it means they are the best team in Chicago.
“This means so much. It means we are the best. Morgan Park is one of a kind.”
Public League history
The Public League's Prep Bowl has traditionally been considered the city champion but has been less relevant since joining state playoffs.
“The Prep Bowl is essentially a consolation tournament now.”
Morgan Park's record
Morgan Park finished the season 8-1, while Kenwood was 6-3.
“William Smith Jr. had 19 carries for 92 yards for the Mustangs.”
Kenwood's running game
Kenwood's running game was strong with Jamarius Andrus gaining 111 yards on 13 carries.
“We run the ball well all the time.”
Morgan Park's victory
Morgan Park won the Public League Red championship by defeating Kenwood 24-14 in the city championship game.
“Morgan Park beats Kenwood, claims the city championship by winning the Public League Red.”
The one thing
Morgan Park's Darrell Mattison interception and Ronald Smith Jr.'s touchdown passes secured a 24-14 victory over Kenwood in the Public League Red championship game.
