Neukirch carries Huntley

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WAUCONDA – Huntley’s hopes this season rest squarely upon the broad shoulders of senior running back Jordan Neukirch, and he did not disappoint in the Red Raiders’ 35-14 win against Wauconda on Friday night.

Neukirch rushed for 201 yards, including a 55-yard touchdown in the first quarter and a 63-yard score in the second.

“We do expect to run the ball hard, and we expect to do that all year long,” Neukirch said.

“I have to give a lot of credit to the offensive line, they did all the dirty work. ... I promised them all steak if I rushed over 150 yards.”

It seemed that the only thing that could stop Neukirch was himself. The senior running back had to leave the game midway through the third quarter because of muscle cramps.

Another highlight came early in the second half when Huntley quarterback Brandon Luczak connected with tight end Marcus Popenfoose for an 81-yard touchdown pass. The long touchdown put Huntley ahead, 21-7, and the Red Raiders added to the lead with rushing touchdowns from David Conrad and Chris Cunningham.

Huntley coach Steve Graves said the Red Raiders were able to stick to their game plan.

“We did what we had to do; we controlled the line of scrimmage and if we do that things will go well for us,” Graves said.

The Red Raiders will face Elmwood Park in Week 2 at 7:45 p.m. Friday.