When Chicago Christian needs a play, chances are the ball will go to Kenny Jager.
In a 28-21 road victory over Chicagoland Christian Conference rival Aurora Christian on Oct. 25, Jager carried 27 times for 178 yards and two touchdowns.
“Kenny could potentially be the conference’s player of the year,” first-year Chicago Christian coach CJ Cesario said. “He doesn’t come off the field, and he’s been incredible. He’s an outside linebacker and rover on defense, and he has a relentless attitude.
“You see a kid who’s never taken down on the first tackle when he’s running the ball. He’s mean and explosive, and he runs low to the ground. There’s no quit in him. He’s a special, special guy.”
Quarterback Christian Flutman was also a significant contributor for the Knights (8-1, 6-1). He was 10 of 14 passing for 158 yards, including a 69-yard touchdown pass to Ed VanDellen. Flutman also rushed for a 29-yard touchdown, while VanDellen chipped in a late interception to secure the victory. Jared Hall had six catches for 68 yards.
“We haven’t been in that type of close game this season,” Cesario said. “We were battle-tested, and they pushed us in ways we needed to catapult us to be ready for the playoffs.
“This has been a journey for the players, and it’s been a tough one. But to stick with it and experience this, they really deserve it. These are incredible young men. The community has rallied behind us. This is very much a revival season for our community.”
Chicago Christian, which will host Illini West in the state playoffs at 5 p.m. Saturday, is the smallest school in Class 2A. The Knights also made the playoffs last season, losing in the first round of Class 2A to Maroa-Forsyth.
“Making the state playoffs is absolutely wonderful,” Cesario said. “This has been on my heart since I stepped into the building. We have 13 seniors who have been great leaders, and they have poured their hearts into the program.
“This is an honor for them because they’ve had their ups and downs. And it’s great for our community to experience all the success we’ve had. I’ve been blessed to experience an 8-1 team with the seniors we have. We have a great coaching staff that I’m able to work with, and we work together so well. This has been absolutely beautiful.”