Flag Football remains undefeated as they explode by Jefferson 46-0.
Hononegah has shut out 11 of their 18 opponents this year.
Round Lake, IL (IHSA Playoffs) - Hononegah's offense exploded against the Jefferson J-Hawks on Tuesday night, delivering a convincing 46-0 victory in what can only be described as a complete team effort. The Indians’ offense, a symphony of precision and power, scored in nearly every imaginable way. From the air, senior signal-caller Addison Hulburt was masterful, completing 8 of 15 passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns, finding multiple receivers to keep the Jefferson defense guessing. When she wasn't slinging the ball, Hulburt showed off her dual-threat capabilities, adding 43 yards and two more touchdowns on the ground, a testament to her athleticism and leadership.
The ground game was a thunderous force, spearheaded by Ava Schaumburg and Layla Demke. Senior Schaumburg rumbled for 30 yards and a touchdown on just five carries, while Demke, just a freshman, proved to be a workhorse, chewing up 91 yards on seven rushes, adding two more touchdowns to the Indians' tally. Not to be outdone, Arianna Kahly contributed 17 yards on two rushes, scoring a 1-point conversion to demonstrate the team's depth.
The receiving corps was a star-studded cast, with senior Jordan Dimke leading the way with three catches for 52 yards and a touchdown. But it was a balanced attack, with Natalie Harris, Mikayla Mowers, and Irelyn O'Brien all chipping in with crucial receptions. O'Brien's 8-yard touchdown catch, in particular, was a highlight, showcasing the team's ability to capitalize on every opportunity.
But while the offense was busy lighting up the scoreboard, the Hononegah defense was busy shutting down any hope of a Jefferson rally. With a suffocating effort, the Indians' defense was relentless. The line was a brick wall, with Taitum Cates racking up an impressive three sacks, and Karla Krause adding a sack of her own. The defense was led by a host of players who made their presence felt, including Kenzie Miller with five tackles and a pass breakup, and Madeline Kahly with 5.5 tackles. This dominant defensive performance, a shutout no less, was the punctuation mark on a flawless team effort that solidified Hononegah's standing as a formidable opponent in the postseason.
Next up for Hononegah is Round Lake on Thursday at 6 pm from Round Lake. The Panthers have one of the most prolific passers in all of Illinois high school flag football this year. This season alone, junior Mya Hagi has thrown for 4,463 yards with 46 touchdowns and just 16 interceptions to go along with a 102.1 QBR. Hononegah will need to continue its strong defense if it wants to advance in the playoffs. With todays shutout, Hononegah has shut out 11 of their 18 opponents this year. That's a standard of excellence they hope to continue on Thursday against Round Lake.
Thank you to the Hononegah Girls Flag Football Facebook page, Coach Jason Brunke and the IHSA for images and information used in the story.
