Wake Up Tri-Counties Coach Matt Taylor Talks KHS Football Win Over Sterling Newman

The Kewanee Boilermakers are heading into the third week of the football season with plenty of confidence after picking up their first victory of the year. Head coach Matt Taylor recently joined Ken Peele on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Kewanee’s 17-10 win over Sterling Newman, the team’s continued defensive success, and preparations for a challenging matchup with Erie-Prophetstown. Taylor said the victory was especially rewarding after Kewanee opened the season with a close loss to Rockridge. The Boilermakers’ defense once again led the way. Taylor credited the defensive line for setting the tone, highlighting Robert Taylor, Braden Lynn, Armani Del Toro, Jesus Martinez, and Caine Griffin. The linebackers have also been a major strength. Juniors Eli Denison and Ace Lefollet are currently leading the team in tackles and have turned in standout performances through the first two games. Kewanee also came away with two interceptions against Sterling Newman, with Lane Taylor and Carter Inslee each recording a pick. While the defense has been the biggest highlight, Taylor said the offense has also produced some spectacular moments. Chris Crow has rushed for more than 100 yards in each of Kewanee’s first two games, while Lefollet has accumulated approximately 200 rushing yards for the season. Lane Taylor and Denison have also contributed on the ground. Senior receiver Justin Wante was another player Taylor praised after recording three catches against Sterling Newman. One of the biggest stories for the Boilermakers continues to be freshman quarterback Cruz Cernovich. Taylor said Cernovich has been impressive beyond his years, particularly in his poise, demeanor, and ability to manage the game. The freshman has effectively handled the football to Kewanee’s running backs and has also shown the ability to throw the ball accurately. “He is well ahead of where we thought we might be at the quarterback position this year,” Taylor said. Taylor was particularly impressed with Cernovich’s ability to manage the clock late in the Sterling Newman game. With simple instructions to make the clock work in Kewanee’s favor, the freshman quarterback executed the plan and helped the Boilermakers protect their lead. While Taylor is pleased with the progress, he said the offense still has work to do. The Boilermakers are looking for more sustained drives and additional opportunities to put points on the scoreboard. Defensively, however, the team is further along than Taylor expected at this point in the season, especially considering some of the struggles the program experienced last year. Kewanee’s next challenge is Erie-Prophetstown, a team Taylor expects to provide another significant test. Erie-Prophetstown operates primarily out of a shotgun formation and features a quarterback who is a capable runner. Taylor also highlighted running back Tristan Hovey, a quality athlete and wrestler who provides another threat in the backfield. The Panthers have the ability to throw the football as well, making their offense difficult to defend. Taylor said Erie-Prophetstown also has a large, physical offensive line, meaning Kewanee’s defense will once again face a demanding challenge up front. The extreme heat has also affected the Boilermakers’ preparation this week. Kewanee moved some practice activities indoors because of the temperatures and shifted another practice to 7 PM to allow the team to work under more manageable conditions. Taylor emphasized the importance of hydration and making sure players have plenty of fluids and access to cooling measures during the game. The Boilermakers will also have to deal with the added distractions that come with Kewanee Hog Days this weekend. Taylor acknowledged that keeping players focused can be difficult with so much happening around town, but he said a football victory would make the weekend even better for the players. “Hog Days is always better when you get a win at the football game,” Taylor said. The Boilermakers will look to carry their momentum into Friday night’s game against Erie-Prophetstown before turning their attention to the remainder of the season. After two games, Taylor believes his team is showing the resilience, teamwork and confidence needed to compete at a high level. With a strong defense, an improving offense, and a freshman quarterback gaining valuable experience, Kewanee has plenty to build on as the season continues.