Schuck on a Truck: Phil Neally discusses QHS’s historic football season, carrying energy into wrestling season

QUINCY — Phil Neally saw the Quincy High School football team when it struggled as much as it ever has. Three decades later, he’s witnessing the greatest season in program history.

As a junior offensive lineman during the 1991 season, Neally and the Blue Devils endured a winless season. The next season, Neally started at center and helped Quincy end a 42-game losing streak with a 27-7 victory over Highland in the season opener. It took another 10 seasons before the Blue Devils made the playoffs and another 10 after that to win the first playoff game in program history.

Now, the Blue Devils are in the state quarterfinals for the first time ever, riding an 11-game win streak and have become the talk of the town.

Neally has spent the past 23 years as an assistant coach within the QHS football program, while also serving as the head coach of the highly successful QHS wrestling program. Although wrestling practice is underway, Neally’s focus this weekend is helping the Blue Devils navigate a sizable challenge in Chicago Mount Carmel.

Neally joined Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman on the tailgate of his pickup truck to discuss the evolution of the QHS football program and the pride that goes into being a Blue Devil for this episode of “Schuck on a Truck,” brought to you by Shottenkirk Toyota.