So far, so good for Stagg, which began new coach Jacob O’Connor’s tenure with a win over Joliet Central on opening night of the 2024 season.
Displaying a versatile offense that saw six players score rushing touchdowns, the Chargers beat the Steelmen 49-20 in a non-conference matchup Aug. 30 in Palos Hills.
Stagg junior running back Olaf Kozub led the offense with 224 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Defensive lineman Terrell Williams finished with a program single-game record three sacks.
Ibrahim Hazim, Isaiah Jimenez, Jimmy Klimek and Williams also scored rushing touchdowns. Hazim ran for 78 yards on four carries.
Senior Tre Washington chipped in an 84-yard fumble return for a touchdown and T.J. Thornburg had an interception.
“This isn’t a bad way to start,” O’Connor said. “It’s awesome. “The main thing is that if they do what they’re supposed to do, we’re tough to beat. We want to continue to grow, continue to progress and not get complacent.”
Williams presented O’Connor with the game ball.
O’Connor succeeded former Stagg coach Colt Nero after two seasons as the Chargers defensive coordinator.
“This win is a huge confidence-booster off the bat for us,” O’Connor said. “But it’s just one win. Hopefully, there is more to come.”