Hononegah Blanks East 41–0 on Homecoming Night, Defense Dominates Under the Lights at Kelsey Field
"They’re doing what we’re asking them to do — you can’t ask for anything else.”
On a night built for celebration, the Hononegah Indians delivered a performance worthy of Homecoming Week, overpowering the Rockford East E‑Rabs 41–0 in a NIC‑10 showdown at Kelsey Field. The win pushes Hononegah to 6–1 on the season, while East falls to 2–5.
From the opening kick, the Indians looked locked in — fast, physical, and fully in command. The shutout marks Hononegah’s best defensive performance of the 2026 campaign. This continues a defensive surge that has transformed the team since mid‑season.
A Defense That’s Found Its Identity
Hononegah Community High School Head Coach Brian Zimmerman didn’t hesitate to praise his defense, which has now allowed an average of just 7 points in its last three games.
“I think the guys are playing with more confidence,” Zimmerman said after the game. “We’ve got guys we were plugging in here and there, and I think the competition’s ramped up a little bit. It’s just fun to see these guys.”
Zimmerman noted that the second half against East was the best football his defense has played all season.
“We made adjustments, and they really played well. They’re doing what we’re asking them to do — you can’t ask for anything else.”
The Indians swarmed East’s backfield all night, forcing hurried throws, stuffing the run, and controlling the line of scrimmage. Nearly every defensive series ended with East going backward.
Passing Game Clicking, Run Game Grinding Forward
Offensively, Hononegah’s passing attack continues to shine. Quarterback Dominic Cacciatore was sharp, receivers found space, and the Indians moved the ball with rhythm and confidence.
But Zimmerman was quick to highlight the work being done on the ground.
“Jacob Duvall did a great job for us tonight at running back,” he said. “Silas Gibson was sick a couple days this week, so we didn’t utilize him quite as much. And Marice Szarzynski — I think he’s getting better the more carries he gets.”
The Indians are still adjusting after losing two major power backs earlier in the season.
“We’re still recovering from not having Brody Sendele and Tuula. Those were two big losses for us, big power runners. But it’s coming together slowly. The guys are making it work.”
And on Friday night, it worked well enough to put 41 points on the board.
Homecoming Focus: “The Big Thing Is Friday Night Football”
Despite weather canceling the Powderpuff game and Thursday’s bonfire, Zimmerman said the team stayed focused.
“Homecoming is a distraction sometimes for players, but here we’ve built the deal that the big thing is the football game on Friday night. Play well Friday, then enjoy the dance on Saturday.”
The stands were packed, the energy was loud, and the Tribe delivered.
And for fans wanting more Homecoming coverage, the Indians made sure to point them in the right direction:
👉 Check out our full Homecoming Parade video now on the Rockton‑Roscoe News Facebook Page.
A Thank You From the Booster Club
The Hononegah Booster Club extended its gratitude to the fans who turned out for this year’s Tribe Tailgate under the big white tent in the west endzone.
Their message was simple:
It’s this kind of support that makes Hononegah such an incredibly special place.
Looking Ahead: The Final NIC‑10 Game
Next Friday night marks Hononegah’s final regular season NIC‑10 home game. Kickoff is against Boylan is at 7 pm, since Boylan does not have a Sophomore team the game will kickoff at 7 pm.
