Geneva’s Spirited Comeback and Narrow Loss to Wheaton North

With senior quarterback Ben Peterson at the helm, Geneva never feels outmatched. Even though they trailed throughout Friday’s game, a comeback always seemed possible. And it indeed happened. My coach entrusted me with the ball to make things happen in the second half, and play the way we know we can, said Peterson. The support from my coaches and teammates means the world to me.

Peterson eventually gave Geneva the lead with 1:23 remaining in the fourth quarter. However, Wheaton North launched a strong rally, stunning the Vikings with a final score of 36-35 in a Class 6A second-round matchup.

The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Peterson completed 15 of 23 passes, amassing 195 yards, and secured a touchdown to lead Geneva, concluding their season at 9-2. Committed to Eastern Michigan, Peterson also added three rushing touchdowns from 2 yards out. Illinois recruit Bennett Konkey delivered an impressive performance, with eight catches totaling 125 yards and a touchdown. Nelson Wendell contributed with 119 rushing yards and a touchdown, showcasing a strong team effort.

Everything began with Peterson. As Geneva coach Boone Thorgesen put it, Ben is one of the best quarterbacks in the state. He’s a tremendous player. We never lost faith because we knew that Ben was leading us.

On the opposing side, sophomore quarterback Grant Neibch excelled for Wheaton North, now 8-3. Neibch completed 24 of 39 passes, achieving 301 yards and two touchdowns. His 17-yard touchdown pass to Johnny Clayton with 1.6 seconds left secured their victory. Mac Murray contributed 97 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown.

Geneva had previously defeated Wheaton North 42-14 on October 9. Despite falling behind 15-0 in this matchup, they never led until the game’s final moments. The Falcons scored with four seconds remaining in the first half, taking a 23-14 lead, yet Coach Thorgesen remained confident due to Peterson’s capabilities.

Geneva’s Bennett Konkey celebrated with Lincoln Mercado after a successful 2-point conversion against Wheaton North, capturing a moment of team spirit on November 6, 2026, (Mark Black / The Beacon-News).

Peterson opened the third quarter with one of his 2-yard touchdown runs, narrowing the gap to 23-21. In response, Wheaton North scored, but Wendell quickly answered with a 3-yard touchdown run. Konkey’s 2-point conversion reduced the deficit to 30-29.

Geneva’s lengthy drive later ended with a blocked field goal, leaving them trailing until a significant defensive play emerged. Alex Abraham intercepted Neibch, returning it 34 yards to Wheaton North’s 16-yard line. Peterson described the moment as a rush of emotions and praised Abraham’s season performance. Having known him the longest, it’s been a meaningful year, Peterson added.

Five plays later, Peterson achieved another 2-yard touchdown run, pulling Geneva ahead 35-30 with 1:23 remaining. Peterson and Konkey’s connection will be remembered in Geneva history. That brotherly love, that chemistry, it’s unmatched, said Konkey. I’m thankful for this year with him and having a quarterback like him. It’s a blessing.

Yet, Wheaton North responded, marching 80 yards in 12 plays to claim victory, ending Geneva’s aspirations for a state championship run. Peterson expressed deep disappointment, The personal connections we formed make this loss hard. It feels like a punch to the face.

Paul Johnson is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.