Thunderstorms postponed what would later prove to be a Naperville Central victory over Naperville North, as the Redhawks (2-3) defeated the Huskies (1-4) 23-7 behind a strong performance from junior quarterback Sam Jackson. Friday’s game, originally scheduled at North Central College’s Benedetti Wehrli Stadium, was moved to Saturday afternoon at Central’s Memorial Stadium.

Jackson connected with junior wide receiver Keon Green for Naperville Central’s only first-half touchdown. 

Junior running back Elijah Jordan established himself as Central’s power back, with tremendous effort after contact. His toughness between the tackles helped Central create an effective running game. Jordan scored Central’s second touchdown on a 33-yard run at the beginning of the third quarter.  

Naperville North’s limited offensive success came when senior Matthew Maschmeier assumed the role quarterback out of the wildcat. His confident arm and ability as a nimble ball carrier kept Central’s defense guessing. Maschmeier led North to their sole score of the game as he slung a short touchdown pass at the end of the third quarter. 

Junior kicker Aidan Ellison hit a 31-yard field goal for the Redhawks. 

Jackson targeted senior wide receiver Jadon Thompson in the red zone for a 14-yard, mid-fourth-quarter touchdown. The extra point was not converted. 

The Huskies could not put together another scoring drive, allowing the Redhawks to win the Crosstown Classic. 

Next week, the Redhawks will travel to the south side of town to take on the Neuqua Valley Wildcats (ranked 9th in the state by the AP) in an important DuPage Valley conference matchup.