Mercado’s 10-Pound Gain Fuels Geneva’s 49-30 Playoff Win

Geneva tight end Lincoln Mercado added 10 pounds of muscle to his frame this summer, and the extra mass helped the Vikings defeat Carmel 49-30 on Saturday night. The Class 6A first-round victory moves the 9-1 team to the second round, where they will host Wheaton North next weekend.

Mercado finished the game with three receptions for 58 yards and two touchdowns. His scores covered 20 and 23 yards. His blocking, which he prioritized over the summer, was a key factor in the offensive performance. He now stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 250 pounds.

Before this season, Mercado played the fullback position in some groups to contribute to the blocking game. He told reporters that his self-assessment last year led him to believe he needed to become a more complete athlete. He said he wanted to stop being a liability against defensive ends and linebackers.

“Last year, I would say I was almost a liability, unfortunately, not being able to block ends and linebackers at 240 pounds like I should,” Mercado said. “This year, I like my odds going up against those guys.”

Senior quarterback Ben Peterson, who is committed to Eastern Michigan, completed 14 of 21 passes for 257 yards and four touchdowns. He also connected with senior wideout Bennett Konkey for two touchdowns. Konkey finished with five catches for 127 yards, including a 63-yard score on the second play of the game.

Senior running back Nelson Wendell carried the ball for 81 yards and two touchdowns. Senior defensive back Tate Beran returned an interception 28 yards for a score. Geneva coach Boone Thorgesen praised Mercado’s versatility, noting that the player runs good routes and is hard to tackle in the open field.

Mercado’s receiving totals this fall stand at 23 catches for 250 yards and four touchdowns. He earned a scholarship offer from Bemidji State this summer. The Vikings will face the 7-3 Wheaton North Panthers in the next round.