Six Southland Patch Players Named to Illinois Football Coaches All-State Team

On the final weekend of the high school football season, six Southland Patch players will be recognized during introductions of the IHSFCA All-State teams in Champaign.

The introductions will coincide with the playing of state championship games Friday and Saturday at the University of Illinois’ Memorial Stadium.

Brother Rice running back Martez Walker was named to the Class 8A all-state team by the IHSFCA. He led the Crusaders to an 8-5 record, setting single-season and career scoring records. Brother Rice dropped a 39-6 decision to Mount Carmel in the Catholic League Blue title game.

In Class 7A, Lincoln-Way East quarterback Blake Winkler, Providence Catholic offensive lineman Ryan Ward and Andrew offensive lineman Mike Love were picked by the IHSFCA.

Winkler led Lincoln-Way East to the Southwest Suburban Blue Conference championship. The Griffins won 10 straight games before falling to Wheaton Warrenville South 7-0 in the second round of the state playoffs on Nov. 4.

Ward (6-6, 280) is committed to the University of Iowa. Love (6-4, 300) helped Andrew bounce back from an 0-2 start. The T-Bolts tied for the Southwest Suburban Red Conference championship and finished 7-4.

Running back Tevin Coleman’s electric play-making ability helped Oak Forest post a 7-4 record and reach the second round of the Class 6A playoffs. He earned all-state honors in voting of the IHSFCA. The Bengals were ousted by South Suburban Blue rival Lemont 35-14.

In Class 5A, Tinley Park offensive lineman Zack Webster (6-2, 284) earned a spot on the IHSFCA all-state team. His work in the trenches helped the Titans notch an 8-3 record, reach the second round of the state playoffs and average 37.4 points.