Burlington Central clinches playoff spot for 1st time in 10 years

When Burlington Central coach Brian Iossi brought up 16 sophomores to the varsity two years ago he knew he had a special group.

That group went 4-5 the last two seasons and missed the playoffs.

That disappointment came to and for the Rockets Friday night when the hosts defeated Hampshire 31-6 in a Fox Valley Conference game and clinched a playoff spot with a 6-2 record for the first time since 2014.

"I have known these kids since seventh grade and I knew it was a special group," Iossi said. “This group has everything and it spread out. We have linemen, a quarterback, receivers, running backs and great defensive players in this group. The last two years have been disappointing. I am very proud of these kids and the program."

Senior LJ Kerr excelled on both sides of the ball for the winners.

The 3-year starter ran for a 7-yard touchdown on a reverse and intercepted a pass from his safety spot.

"On the reverse I wasn't even touched and the blocking was incredible," said Kerr. “On defense, we had a good plan. We knew they would try to some trick plays. I was in the right place for the interception. The last two years have taken a toll on us. We were so close to the playoffs. It is an awesome feeling to make the playoffs.”

Iossi is impressed with Kerr.

"LJ is a dynamic player and is one of the best players in the conference," said the BC coach. “He never comes off the field.”

Senior Jackson Alcorn, a 3-year starter, completed 13-of-20 passes for 127 yards and a 23-yard TD pass to Chase Powrozek.

"The last two seasons have been so frustrating," said Powrozek. “This is an awesome feeling."

For Hampshire (1-7), Cole Klawikowski had a 9-yard TD run.