Larkin answers questions, stuns McHenry

One of the questions going into Larkin's season opener in McHenry asked if Larkin could handle the pressure that was handed to the Royals this season for the program to turn the page. Last year's 4-5 finish put focus on this team to be even better.

How does a 9-point win on the road against a McHenry team that had the Royals' number for the previous two years sound?

Unphased by the pressure, the Royals' offseason conditioning program proved beneficial, as Larkin stunned McHenry 15-6 in the season opener for both teams at McCracken Field Friday night.

Mainly, it was an offensive line that allowed running back Jalen Williams to amass 171 yards rushing and a touchdown and defensive line that held McHenry's rushing game to just 16 yards.

"Our players played four, full quarters of football," Royals coach Matt Gehrig said. "They have trained hard and put their heart and soul into this season."

Williams was the beneficiary of an offensive line that freed up holes for him to dance his way down the field.

"We have a way better offensive line this year," Williams said.

Williams' 51-yard run gave the Royals a 13-0 lead with 3:42 left in the fourth quarter. Alex Munoz had 2 field goals, one from 36 yards in the third and another from 21 in the first to give Larkin a 6-0 lead until the Williams touchdown.

McHenry, which had been held down all game, make it dramatic when Dana Kohn returned an 82-yard kick soon after Williams' touchdown, making it 13-6. One final attempt with under 2 minutes to play was denied, after a holding play in the end zone gave the Royals a safety and a 15-6 win.

"We can't get too cocky," said lineman Cody Schue. "It all came from the offseason, sticking to it, getting into the weight room, coming to camp, doing whatever we need to do."

McHenry didn't do much on a great Larkin defense. After amassing 115 total yards of offense in the first half, McHenry was held to just 51 yards of offense in the second half.

"They're a good offensive and defensive line, and we didn't do enough," McHenry coach Tim Beagle said.

Royals quarterback Kyle Newquist threw for 87 yards, completing 5 of 10 throws.