Giants Dominate Maine East, Clinch Playoff Berth

It was Jared Korn’s turn to shine for the Highland Park High School football team as the Giants upended Maine East, 46-16, Friday in Park Ridge to improve to 6-1 for the season and secure a spot in the Illinois High School Association playoffs.

Korn had one touchdown on offense and another on defense. With his team ahead, 7-0, and the Blue Demons moving the ball, he broke through the line, ripped the ball out of the running runner’s hands and ran 35 yards to extend Highland Park’s lead, according to Freshman Coach Jim Berardi.

"He has so much grit to do that," Head Coach Hal Chiodo said. "Their fullback is 6-3, 225 pounds and he (Korn) is 5-7, 170 and he took the ball away from him twice, once for a touchdown."

Not yet done causing turnovers, Korn forced a fumble which Ari Mitchell recovered. Usually a defensive player, Korn saw time on offense as well against Maine East and dove into the end zone for his offensive touchdown.

Kelshawn Shields also scored two touchdowns while Tommy Sutker threw for a pair on seven for nine passing for 184 yards. Sutker connected with Grant Paley on a 49-yard scoring play and found Jack Maguire as well.

Not to be outdone by the offense and defense, Jason Goldsmith blocked a punt to make his mark on special teams, according to Berardi.

Highland Park travels to Niles North at 7 p.m. Friday. The Giants are now 6-1 for the season and 3-0 in the Central Suburban League North Division with two games left.

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