Roman Sosnovy ‘26 and Tyler Chambers ‘25 celebrate after sacking the Quarterback (Klos/LION)

LT’s football team fell short to the Knights of Prospect High School in their first game of the season on Aug. 26, ending with a final score of 24-10. A slow start offensively resulted in a demanding second half effort for LT. 

Quarterback Ryan Jackson ‘24 connected with wide receiver Caleb Greer ‘24 in the back corner of the endzone early in the second quarter for LT’s first and only touchdown of the game. Last year, Jackson threw for a school-record 26 touchdowns, and the Knights’ game plan did not allow another quick start to the season. Prospect’s defensive line allowed Jackson no time in the backfield, as they chased him down most of the night, forcing a crucial interception, and sacking him multiple times.  

“It was definitely a learning experience,” Jackson said. “The good news is that we can use these mistakes to help us improve and use this loss as motivation for the rest of the season.”

LT had multiple starters playing on both the offensive and defensive side while Prospect had none. Prospect’s coaching staff recognized this and used it to their advantage throughout the game. 

Late in the fourth quarter with the ball on their own 49 yard line, up 17-10, Prospect chose to go for it. LT needed a stop or a turnover in order to have any chance of tying the game. The Knights Quarterback ran up the middle for nine  yards and a first down. Three plays later, Prospect ran it into the endzone for a 10-yd touchdown making the score 24-10, which crushed any hope left in the LT stands. 

“Giving it my all on both sides of the ball took a lot out of me,” wide receiver and safety Jack McQueeney ‘24 said. “It’s tough because we don’t get any breaks during the action, but I know that I am helping my team by being out there.”

The Lions were ranked as the #12 team in the state of Illinois according to Sports Illustrated prior to their loss. Prospect is now ranked as the #8 team in Illinois.  

“It was a tough [game] for us,” Head Coach Jon Beutjer said. “Our guys were pretty tired out there but you have to give Prospect credit. Defensively, they were bringing a ton of pressure.” 

LT will host Wheaton-Warrenville South in their home opener on Friday, Sept. 1. 

Editor’s note: All statistics from Sports Illustrated.