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Junior defensive back Damari Thigpen , who is also on the track team, understands what he brings to the table for Brother Rice in football. And it goes beyond speed and pure adrenaline.

It’s the physicality of the sport.

“I love hitting people,” Thigpen said. “Violence — that’s the best part.”

Thigpen was at his best for the biggest part of the season Saturday night.

He had a long kickoff return and a long punt return in the third quarter, setting up the Crusaders for two easy touchdowns in a 45-17 win over Downers Grove North in a Class 7A state semifinal.

In the first quarter, Thigpen also grabbed an interception for Brother Rice (12-1), which had three players rush for more than 100 yards in advancing to Saturday’s 4 p.m. state champi

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