Copyright Chicago Tribune
Lincoln-Way West’s Jackson Mansker initially found his love for football in the primal basics of the game, enjoying the opportunity to go toe-to-toe with an opponent in a test of toughness. Mansker still embraces that aspect of the sport, but now, the senior defensive back/linebacker/kick returner also appreciates the more subtle nuances. A film session before a playoff game? It doesn’t get any better than that. “Hitting people is what first got me hooked on football,” Mansker said. “I loved that. Now, I love the physical component of it and I love the mental part, the grind of going through the preparation to beat a team every week.” The studying this week has been centered on Downers Grove North (9-2), which will host the Warriors (10-1) at 1 p.m. Saturday in a Class 7A quarterfinal. Mansker, an Indianapolis recruit, is a big reason his team is still playing. A constant force on defense, he’s also a threat in the return game, where he consistently gives his team good field position and boasts the consistent capability of breaking off a big play. Lincoln-Way West coach Luke Lokanc is grateful that he can depend on Mansker. “His growth over the last three years has been huge,” Lokanc said. “It’s due to his hard work, and also when it comes to the development of any player, it’s all about game experience. “He was here as a sophomore, then junior year you see him getting better. Now, senior year, he’s here and we’re able to use him in all those spots on defense and special teams and we know he’s always going to do exactly what we need him to do.” This season for Mansker, that has meant playing what he calls a “hybrid” position on defense, taking on a combination of safety and linebacker duties. “I love it,” Mansker said. “It’s a change of tempo, so it’s fun. Being around all phases of the game, it’s great.” Mansker is a tone-setter for a defense that is allowing an average of just 14 points a game. He recovered a fumble in Saturday’s 43-20 second-round win over Kenwood, while senior linebacker Jimmy Talley Jr. contributed an interception return for a touchdown. Talley, who also plays running back, is a newcomer to defense who said he has leaned on Mansker’s knowledge and leadership. Talley marvels at Mansker’s playmaking ability. “It’s insane how much speed Jackson has,” Talley said. “I’ll look one way and he’s standing there, dropping into a zone. I turn my head one second and he’s already making the play.” When Mansker committed on Oct. 30 to Indianapolis, he was fulfilling a longtime goal. “Since the day I started playing football, I’ve always wanted to play in college,” he said. “To be able to play with that great program, it’s going to be fun. It’s right by the city. I love the coaches and love the team. They’re ranked No. 7 in Division II right now, so I’m excited about it.” Of course, there’s still some unfinished business with the Warriors for Mansker, who also plays baseball. He was a sophomore on the varsity in 2023 when Lincoln-Way West lost 34-6 to Downers Grove North at the same stage in a Class 7A quarterfinal. “I’m blessed to be able to play this far into my senior year and to get a chance at getting revenge on DGN this week,” Mansker said. “It’s going to be fun to see how it goes.” The Trojans are led by senior quarterback Owen Lansu, a Minnesota recruit, and senior receiver Oliver Thulin, who has committed to Dayton. Mansker relishes the opportunity to face off against a pair of Division I prospects. “I love it,” Mansker said. “I think competition is great. This is what I want. I want to go against great players. “It definitely fires me up.”
