Unity football looking to make statement in week two rivalry game

TOLONO, Ill. (WCIA) – Unity football went 9-3 in 2023 and made a run to the 3A state quarterfinals.

After beating Prairie Central 32-13 in week one, the Rockets are gearing up for a big rivalry game in week two.

“A little rocky at the start, our offense kind of struggled but we locked in and talked it out, saw what we needed to do right and it just kind of flowed for the rest of the game,” Unity senior running back Garrett Richardson said.

The Rockets defense led the way in the season opener — a unit they’ll lean on against an SJO team that scored 40 points in the win at Monticello in their opener.

“I think this is probably one of the more athletic teams we’ve had this year,” Unity senior defensive back Ryan Rink said. “I think we’ve got big play potential, and I think we’re aggressive, which I think is the most important part of defense.”

Junior quarterback Dane Eisenmenger is back for a second season as the starter, and the team sees noticeable growth from year one.

“(He’s) just seeing the game better, the routes and just how he focuses more in,” Richardson said. “He’s not as nervous either, he has more experience with everyone.”

The week two tilt with the Spartans is a game that always has a little extra juice.

“It’s a big rivalry, it’s the rivalry,” Rink said. “We lost last year. This year, I think we’ll go there and make a statement.”

No matter the outcome of our Friday Friday Football Fever Spotlight Game of the Week, the Rockets know it’s important to remember the big picture.

“It’s a long season and we’re not going to pin all of our hopes on this game,” head coach Scott Hamilton said. “We’ll be ready to go, but it’s all about that steady climb to being able to play your best ball in November.”

Click here for the SJO preview ahead of the week two contest.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.