Lincoln-Way East’s Jack Murphy Shines in Victorious Return
Lincoln-Way East is thrilled to have junior receiver Jack Murphy back in action. Known for his speed, Murphy had been sidelined by a hamstring injury but has gradually rejoined the lineup. ‘I was out longer to ensure I could finish the regular season and playoffs,’ Murphy explains.
In his third game since returning, Murphy excelled on Friday night. He made eight receptions for 186 yards and two touchdowns, all in the first half, leading the Griffins to a 42-0 win over Lincoln-Way Central in a SouthWest Suburban Conference matchup in New Lenox.
This was the first meeting between these district rivals in football since spring 2021. Quarterback Evan LeFevour threw for 240 yards, while backup Tyler Spychalski connected with Luke Ingram on a 61-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Running back Aidan Cavanaugh added 51 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. On defense, Ontario Pryor had an interception, and Jacob Onik and Cameren Stewart each recorded significant sacks, complementing Murphy’s impressive performance.
‘He’s great,’ LeFevour says of Murphy. ‘He’s very effective at gaining yards after the catch. We see it in practice, and it’s even better now that he’s back on the field.’
Murphy’s return provided balance to the team’s offense, which already featured receiver Jayden Cawthon. ‘Having Jack takes pressure off Jayden,’ Coach Rob Zvonar remarks. ‘They now have to focus on two threats.’
Murphy attributes his sprinting skills to early training. ‘My dad put me in speed training in sixth grade, and it’s a significant part of my life,’ he shares.
Murphy also praises his offensive line. ‘I like seeing the big boys clear the way,’ he says. ‘They deserve a shoutout.’
The Griffins have been on a winning streak after narrow victories against Brother Rice and Kankakee earlier in the season. They are eyeing their first Class 8A title since 2019.
Murphy recalls watching the 2019 championship team and being inspired by AJ Henning. ‘I used to watch AJ play, and it got me into football,’ Murphy says.
Now deeply committed to the sport, Murphy finds it fulfilling. ‘Football is my life. It’s aggressive, but it keeps me calm and balanced,’ he concludes.