In this 24-minute WGIL podcast, Jay Redfern sits down with Jacob Carl, a 2018 Galesburg High School grad who played a key role in the Silver Streaks’ historic 2016 IHSA playoff victory, the first and still only in school history. Now a math teacher and coach at GHS, Jacob shares stories of the team’s 8-3 season, his leadership as a two-way player at tight end and linebacker, and the thrilling 35-21 playoff win over Chicago Hubbard. He reflects on why returning to his hometown was an easy choice, driven by deep community ties. From high expectations under Coach Tim Dougherty to the packed stands of that playoff game, this episode captures Silver Streaks pride. Who was Jacob’s favorite GHS teacher that inspired his career? Listen to find out.
WATCH on our YouTube channel:
2025 Halftime Interviews:
Week 1: From Silver Streak to surgeon: Beau Shay’s hall of fame journey
Week 2: Galesburg’s 1956 Undefeated Silver Streaks: Tom Milan’s Story
Week 3: Jerry 'Buddy' Cato: Silver Streaks football legend
Week 4: Greg Turner reflects on Galesburg and Illini football days
Week 5: Peyton Isaacson: Streaks Star on Legacy, Leadership, Success
Week 6: ‘Heck of a Team’: Steve Ferguson relives Galesburg Football Glory in the ’60s
Week 7: Galesburg QB Mark Reed Relives 1980 Kane Era Glory
Week 8: Jacob Carl: From Playoff Glory to Shaping GHS’s Next Generation
