Simeon sophomore wide receiver Jalonny Billingsley thrives on any platform. Besides being an amateur photographer, Billingsley dreams of an acting career. On the field, he is a Division I prospect.
“When I’m out there on the field, it’s like a stage and I’m acting, except everything is real,” he said. “It’s all or nothing.”
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 180 pounds, Billingsley delivered a solid performance on Saturday. He caught a 24-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Aki King. This contributed to the 21st-seeded Wolverines’ 36-11 victory over the 12th-seeded Lindblom in the opening round of the Class 6A playoffs at Stagg Stadium, Chicago.
Aki King also connected with senior wide receiver Elijah Welch for a 52-yard touchdown, assisting Simeon (5-5) in their triumph. The team will face fifth-seeded Oak Lawn (7-2) in the next round.
On the other side, Junior safety Justice Howell scored with a remarkable 101-yard interception return for the Eagles (5-5).
In a significant moment, Billingsley gained crucial yards after a catch during the opening round against Lindblom at Stagg Stadium on October 24, 2026. Photo credits go to Vincent D. Johnson for the Chicago Tribune.
Billingsley’s talent is evident, having offers from prestigious programs like Kentucky and Miami. He completed the game with four catches, amassing 74 yards.
King reflected on their longstanding partnership. “We’ve been playing together for seven years now since youth football. I know he’s my guy, and I can always count on him,” King said. “Whenever anything breaks down, I know he can bail me out.”
This story will receive further updates.
Patrick Z. McGavin reported this story as a freelance journalist.
Naperville North’s Diego Hernandez Shines in Regional Championship 
Illinois Triumphs Over Oregon: Key Moments from the Game 
Angel Reese’s Struggles in Game 4 Against Golden State Valkyries 
Cincinnati Defeats Texas Tech Amid Sorsby Scandal