On a Friday when Dixon ’s Landon Knigge found the end zone six times against Streator , senior linebacker Jake Whelan’s first career touchdown brought the most joy to the Dukes.

Extending the lead to 51 points just before halftime, Whelan’s interception return from midfield on the Dukes’ way to a 65-0, business-like, nonconference win had his teammates celebrating.

“I was pumped up,” Whelan said.

The Dixon (7-1) linebacker said the throw from Streator (1-7) quarterback Sam LeRette was forced off course by one of his defensive lineman.

“I think one of my D-linemen hit his hand,” Whelan said. “It went behind the guy who was catching the ball, he tipped it, and it just fell straight into my arms. I just grabbed the ball and took off.”

Whelan said he saw open field in front of him, ra

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