Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2023 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Blayne Sisson of
Mt. Carmel is the 2023 MaxPreps Illinois High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound senior quarterback led the Golden Aces to a 12-2 record and Class 3A runner-up finish.
Sisson led the state in total offense and touchdowns with 4,074 yards (12th highest total in state history) and 52 scores. He ran for a state-best 2,230 yards and 37 TDs to go along with 1,777 passing yards and 15 TDs.
In five playoff games, MaxPreps Illinois Player of the Year Blayne Sisson ran for 1,054 yards and 13 touchdowns while throwing for 565 and five more scores. (Photo: Chris Johns)
In a 63-48 win over Roxana in the semifinals, Sisson ran 37 times for 315 yards and five touchdowns while completing 9 of 10 passes for 181 yards and another score. His season-high in passing came in a 36-30 win over Effingham when he threw for 254 yards and four touchdowns.
Sisson finished his career with 9,907 yards of total offense, which ranks eighth-best in IHSA history.
The University of Illinois will welcome Sisson into the program next year as a preferred walk-on.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Illinois Players of the Year
2021 — Luther Burden III, WR, East St. Louis
2022 — Blainey Dowling, QB, Mt. Carmel (Chicago)
