Offensive Player of the Week
Naperville Central senior quarterback Conor Joyce
Joyce was at his best during No. 8 Naperville Central’s 34-14 victory over Wheaton North. As the Redhawks were on their way to jumping out to a 31-0 lead over the Falcons, Joyce completed 14-of-17 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns. The three TDs went to three players – Jack Piper, Jordan Crissy and Matt Lehmann – as Joyce’s 264 passing yards tied a season high. On the year, Joyce has thrown for 1,371 yards to go with 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions.
Defensive Player of the Week
Benet junior safety Alec McEachern
While accounting for Benet’s first score in its 24-21 upset of No. 5 Joliet Catholic with a 13-yard TD reception, McEachern made his biggest impact on the defensive end. His two interceptions of Hilltoppers’ quarterback Cade Earl were half of the four turnovers Tim Cederblad’s defense forced – with Erik Jones’ two fumble recoveries being the other two. Benet’s defense was also able to force Joliet Catholic to turn the ball over on downs four times.
