Crete-Monee’s Versatile LaBranche Brothers Shine on the Field

Senior quarterback August LaBranche of Crete-Monee has become known for his elusive play style and ability to bewilder defenses. Utilizing strategic misdirection and a variety of running backs, LaBranche plays a crucial role in the Warriors’ offensive strategy, although they pass less than in previous seasons. Despite the system change, LaBranche remains committed to his role, saying, “We practice it a lot. It’s fun to fake the defense out and score touchdowns. It’s a new system for me, but as long as we’re winning, that’s all that matters. I’ll adjust to any system I need to adjust to.”

On Saturday, LaBranche excelled by contributing to a total of 456 rushing yards for the Warriors. He scored both a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown as the Warriors triumphed with a 43-6 victory over Bloom in Chicago Heights during a Southland Conference match.

Dominic Jackson had an exceptional performance for Crete-Monee (7-2, 5-1). He ran for 102 yards and two touchdowns with only eight carries, threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Kamal Bryant, and led the defense with a sack and two tackles for loss.

August’s twin brother, Anson LaBranche, contributed defensively with a sack, while Jayvien Pearson secured an interception for the team. Bloom’s Jovarion Wilson managed a 4-yard touchdown, and Isaiah Dunlap ended with 47 yards passing and 32 yards rushing. The LaBranche twins have been influential across the field for Crete-Monee, which they relish together. August shared, It’s really amazing. We have a lot of chemistry, and being out on the field together helps us make plays.

Anson, serving as a senior linebacker and running back, is pleased to see August start as quarterback in their senior year. Anson remarked, I think he’s doing pretty good with the system he’s in. He’s adjusted well to the passing game and the motions, remembering everything he needs to do. It’s a lot, and he’s done a good job.

Crete-Monee coach John Konecki praised August’s adaptation and performance, stating, August has done a fantastic job with this offense. He’s continued to morph into his position. We’re blessed with many players who can touch the ball and make things happen. August has taken on that role of getting all those guys the ball.

During the game against Bloom, August LaBranche notched a 4-yard rushing touchdown and threw a 17-yard TD pass to Aven Atkins, propelling the team to a commanding 43-0 halftime lead. On defense, Anson LaBranche is recognized for his effective efforts, acting as a formidable blocker on offense. Anson does a great job on defense, and then on offense, he’s a tremendous blocker, Konecki said. It’s like having an extra guard back there. When he brings it as a blocker, it’s devastating.

Anson even attempted the Wildcat quarterback role Saturday, seeing the game from August’s perspective, It was fun becoming a quarterback a bit and seeing what August does, Anson said. The LaBranche brothers enjoy playing together, having done so since childhood. August noted, Growing up, sometimes we lifted each other up, sometimes we fought, like any other brothers. A little bit of everything. But he’s helped me quite a lot. We’ve always gone to the field together, always practiced together. He’s always there when I need him.