An unknown only two months ago, Highland Park junior quarterback Gustav Crane is already playing like a sure thing.

With this polished version of Crane, a first-year starter, the Giants’ offense enters the postseason as a matchup problem for opponents.

“The reps I got last year definitely helped prepare me,” he said. “I was obviously a little nervous with me taking my first varsity snaps. But then as the weeks went on, I settled into the season.”

Highland Park’s offensive output has mirrored the 6-foot, 195-pound Crane’s progress. On Friday, he completed 7 of 10 pass attempts for 127 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for a touchdown as the playoff-bound Giants routed Maine East 49-0 on the road to secure their first Central Suburban North title since 2017.

Highland Park (7-2, 5-0)

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