Highland senior defensive end Jace Harris made a significant impact on the field against Whiting on Friday. In the opening series, Harris penetrated the backfield to make a tackle for loss. The 6-foot, 280-pound athlete, who also contributes to the Trojans’ offensive line, also pressured the quarterback, resulting in an errant pass.
“I feel I did well getting off the ball and making tackles,” Harris commented. “Our O-line and D-line gave their all. It starts with us in the trenches.”
Harris’s contributions were crucial as the Trojans achieved their first win under interim coach Jimmy McCormack, defeating Whiting 50-7. During his first season at Highland in 2025, after transferring from Crete-Monee in Illinois, Harris recorded 54 tackles, including 12 for loss, and earned a spot on the Class 4A junior all-state team. Against the Oilers, he managed three tackles for loss.
Jace is a great player,remarked coach Jimmy McCormack.He had a rough start last week, but seeing him bounce back was impressive.
Harris’s journey includes a role as a backup at Crete-Monee as a freshman. He became an all-conference defensive lineman before joining Highland. He also resumed playing offense, a role he hadn’t played since middle school. “Adjusting was challenging but manageable,” Harris noted.
Highland junior quarterback Aaron McCormack praised Harris. “Jace contributes greatly to our team,” he said. “He energizes both sides of the ball and practices with intensity.”
Freshman wide receiver Jonathon Lee also contributed notably by returning the opening kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown. Despite mishandling the ball initially, he managed an impressive run for the score. Lee also caught two passes for 33 yards.
Whiting’s junior quarterback/running back Julian Madrueno scored with a 76-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. This prevented Highland from securing their first shutout since the 2022 postseason and their first in the regular season since 2021. Highland has defeated Whiting in all six games since the series resumed in 2021.
Coach McCormack expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. “The kids met my expectations,” he stated. “Their consistency and physicality were key to our victory.”
Harris emphasized the team’s unity. “It feels great,” he said. “I believe in my team, and they believe in me. Together, we achieve great things.”