Richards’ Naquan Griffin Shines in Playoff Win

Junior safety Naquan Griffin has embraced his role as a wide receiver for Richards High School. Injuries required Griffin to take on both offense and defense roles mid-season. Prior to the playoffs, he made a promise to senior quarterback Eric Jacobs, saying, “I told Eric in practice that every time he throws me the ball I’m going to catch it.” Jacobs expressed his trust in Griffin, and he delivered on that promise in a major way.

Griffin’s outstanding performance on Saturday afternoon included early touchdown catches of 65 and 78 yards, leading the Bulldogs to a big 50-8 victory over Niles North in the Class 7A playoffs in Oak Lawn. Richards quarterback Jacobs, with a stellar start, had his first five passes result in touchdowns. He completed 5 of 7 throws for 235 yards, helping Richards improve to an 8-2 record as they prepare for the next round against Glenbard North.

Jacobs’ success on the field was credited to his teammates. “That’s the way we practice and that’s the way we go about things,” Jacobs said. “Thank God that our minds are healthy. We try to take it day by day and try to get better every single day.”

Griffin was supported by teammates like Logan Sales and Jordan Lewis, who also scored touchdowns. Lewis contributed both as a receiver and a runner. Kamron Norwood added a score with a fumble return. Although Niles North’s Isaac Stan had a solid performance with a 59-yard rushing effort, including a 4-yard touchdown, the early connection between Jacobs and Griffin set the pace for the game.

“He’s a really great athlete for us,” Jacobs described Griffin’s impact. “In my personal opinion, I believe that all of our receivers — especially Naquan — will catch the ball and make significant plays.”

The season has been transformative for Griffin. He transferred from Crete-Monee and was initially expected to play in defensive positions. Coach Tony Sheehan needed Griffin to step up offensively due to team injuries. “We strictly had Naquan as a safety and corner,” Sheehan explained. “Then it was, ‘All right, now you have to play full time wide receiver.’”

Sheehan was immediately impressed with Griffin’s abilities during summer practices. “His football IQ is off the charts and he is very smart,” Sheehan said. “He can catch the ball and obviously you can see he is explosive. He makes plays all over the field.”

During the game on October 31, 2026, Griffin not only showcased his receiving skills but also his astute game awareness. “I was surprised they weren’t really on me,” Griffin remarked about Niles North’s coverage.

Griffin’s presence has been celebrated by his teammates, and he values the camaraderie developed at Richards. “Everybody welcomed me here as family,” Griffin shared. “I feel like right now we are well put together. We’re ready to make a run.”

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound athlete is gaining attention beyond high school, having been invited to a game-day visit at Illinois State during a homecoming game. “I’m trying to get the colleges to look at me,” Griffin expressed, eager for the next step in his career.

Jeff Vorva wrote this report for the Daily Southtown as a freelance reporter.