Libertyville senior free safety Will Murphy said preparation was key in his first-quarter interception in the Wildcats 24-6 loss at Stevenson Friday in Lincolnshire.
Murphy lined up across from Patriots running back Jean-Marc Etienne, who was in the slot, and said he anticipated the throw from Stevenson quarterback Justin Hiller.
“I had watched a lot of film of Stevenson’s previous games, and I expected that (pass) because they like looking to Etienne when he split out as a receiver,” said Murphy, who lives in Libertyville.
Murphy said film study helps him make plays and is important in his role as the leader of the secondary.
“I have to be a little overprepared, so I watch as much film as I can to be able to (position the defensive players),” said Murphy, who also is one of six team captains.
Though he did not start last year, Murphy saw time at safety. He said experience is one of several reasons defensive coordinator Tim Budge has given him so much responsibility.
“I’m a vocal guy, and given my position, I have the best view (of the offense). It just makes sense I would be the one to make sure we’re ready,” Murphy said.
Libertyville coach Mike Jones said he’s been pleased with Murphy’s contribution.
“Murphy is a great kid and he’s worked really hard,” Jones said. “He’s the best tackler in the secondary, he knows where everyone should be and gets them in the right place.”
Murphy also has made his presence felt in coverage. The interception against Stevenson was Murphy’s second of the season and third of his career.
The Wildcats (1-2, 0-1) picked off passes on Stevenson’s first two possessions, with junior cornerback Domenic Tarello intercepting Hiller on the Patriots’ opening drive. However, Libertyville was unable to convert either takeaway.
Despite the loss, Libertyville’s inexperienced secondary only allowed Stevenson (1-2, 1-0) to hurt them with downfield passing on one possession. A week earlier, Waubonsie Valley quarterback Ethan Nelson had thrown three touchdown passes against Libertyville in the Warriors’ 40-20 win.
“There is a little improvement (by the defensive backfield),” Jones said. “They’re young and we’re trying to get them a little more experience, and they (have gotten) that. They are getting better, but it takes time.”