Schools

Sandburg Football's Backup QB Steps Up When His Number Called

Eagles backup quarterback Ron Johnson proved he could move his feet and the ball during a 41-0 victory over Joliet Central on Friday night.

Ron Johnson, a junior, saw limited action in a  in Week 2, but he was limited to clipboard duty for the next three weeks. All that changed in Friday night's 41-0 homecoming win over Joliet Central.

This time, the 6-foot, 145-pound Johnson made his presence felt. He rushed for 95 yards on six carries. He scored the first varsity touchdown of his career on a 9-yard run. And he changed the play at the line of scrimmage.

"It felt really good," Johnson said. "I had to call an audible at the line. I checked out of the original play (because of Joliet Central's defensive alignment). I just cut back and a path opened right up.

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"My receivers blocked for me and that was it. I'm glad my coach trusted me to take control of the offense and call the right plays."

Sandburg led 34-0 heading into halftime, so coach Dave Wierzal rested his starters. Sending out the second-string during a blowout win is commonplace. But Wierzal didn't want to watch them go through the motions.

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"It gives us a chance to evaluate personnel and see who we have," he said. "It doesn't matter who is out there. Everyone should go full tilt and execute to their best."

Johnson started for the sophomore squad last year and was recently promoted to the varsity back-up role. He enjoyed his first real stint on the field. And, bet on this: He'll be ready the next time his number is called.


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