St. Rita Defeated Benet Academy 56-24
The Mustangs dominated their opponent behind a record-breaking performance from quarterback John Fennell.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Football
St. Rita secured a 56-24 victory over Benet Academy in a high school football matchup. The game featured standout performances and established a new single-game school record for passing yards.
Why it matters
The decisive win significantly alters the competitive trajectory for both programs as they look toward the final stretch of the season. For St. Rita, the victory builds momentum, while Benet Academy faces urgent pressure to secure a win next week to keep playoff hopes alive.
John Fennell threw for 320 yards to set a new school record, while the Mustangs offense capitalized on several explosive plays, including a 60-yard touchdown catch and run by Luca Diomede. St. Rita entered the contest with a 4-3 record, while Benet Academy fell to 2-6 on the season.
The players
John Fennell
He is a quarterback for St. Rita who broke the school record for passing yards in a single game.
T.J. Burgos
He is a player for St. Rita who caught three touchdown passes during the victory.
Brandon Johnson Jr.
He is a St. Rita player who scored the opening touchdown of the game.
Jackson Bonebrake
He is a St. Rita player who scored a touchdown following a fumble recovery.
Luca Diomede
He is a St. Rita player who recorded a 60-yard touchdown on a catch and run.
The details
St. Rita established early control, leading 42-17 by halftime behind an aggressive offensive attack. Key contributors included Brandon Johnson Jr., who opened the scoring, and T.J. Burgos, who hauled in three touchdown passes from Fennell, while Jackson Bonebrake added a defensive touchdown via a fumble recovery.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: St. Rita played Benet Academy in a football game.
Season Trajectory
This outcome forces Benet Academy into a must-win scenario against St. Patrick to maintain their eligibility for the state playoffs. St. Rita's performance strengthens their position within the division, shifting the competitive balance as the regular season draws to a close.
Benet Academy must secure a victory in their final game against St. Patrick to remain in contention for a playoff berth. St. Rita's win improves their standing to 5-3, significantly bolstering their resume for postseason consideration.
The takeaway
Quarterback John Fennell's record-setting performance highlights the impact of explosive passing games in high school football. Maintaining consistency across four quarters proved vital for St. Rita in securing this dominant victory.
What happens next
Benet Academy is scheduled to play against St. Patrick next week with their postseason qualification on the line.
Further reading
For more local sports updates, visit Chicago Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NCTV17.
