Daily Herald Week 2 football previews
West Chicago (0-1) at Maine East (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Addison Trail 40, West Chicago 12; Fenton 41, Maine East 7
Outlook: Both teams are looking to regroup. West Chicago, which has made the playoffs the last three years, stumbled badly out of the box against Addison Trail, trailing 26-6. Maine East also dug a big hole as the Demons trailed 41-0. Peter Khamo was able to score a late touchdown.
Hersey (1-0) at Hoffman Estates (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Hersey 38, Carmel 22: Buffalo Grove 21, Hoffman Estates 14
Outlook: Hersey’s offense appears not to have missed a beat from last season. Jake Nawrot threw for 273 yards, tossing passes to six different receivers including Josh Riggs, Jaxson St. Paul and Dom Wetnink. Jackson Travis was also impressive, gaining 116 yards. Hersey’s defense also appeared to be improved from last year, keeping Carmel’s offense from exploding. Hoffman built a 14-0 lead in the first half, but the Hawks couldn’t hang on. Hoffman’s secondary, which will be challenged by Nawrot, allowed a pair of long touchdown passes in the second half. The Hawks’ Shion Dailey had some success in his debut. The junior threw for 74 yards and two touchdowns while the Hawks rushed for 125 yards.
Deerfield (1-0) at Buffalo Grove (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Buffalo Grove 27, Deerfield 24
Last week: Deerfield 6, Lake Forest 0; Buffalo Grove 21, Hoffman Estates 14
Outlook: The battle for Milwaukee Avenue is in its fifth consecutive year, with Deerfield leading the series 3-1. Deerfield showed off its defense last Friday with a key goal line stand. The Warriors had just enough offense on a touchdown pass from Cooper Crane to Mason Belden. Buffalo Grove rallied from a 14-7 deficit to pick up its first win. Buffalo Grove piled up 301 yards thanks to Matthew Kaput’s 132 yards on 19 carries and Nathan Raef’s 144 yards passing. David Graham had 16 tackles to lead the defensive charge as the Bison held Hoffman to 199 yards.
Leyden (1-0) at Elk Grove (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Leyden 28, Highland Park 23; Elk Grove 20, Maine West 6
Outlook: These two teams have not been 1-0 in the same season since 2012. And both Leyden and Elk Grove are coming off solid wins to accomplish that feat. Leyden totaled 183 rushing yards and four touchdowns behind Santino Falco, Nehemiah Almodovar, Juan Vega and Armani Santana. Elk Grove was sparked by quarterback Luke Maher, who threw for 177 yards and two touchdowns. Erik Sandoval, who caught one of those touchdown passes, ran for 114 yards while Griffin Ewen caught the other touchdown. Isaiah Albazi had a pick-six for the Grens.
St. Laurence (0-1) at Prospect (1-0)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: King 15, St. Laurence 14; Prospect 31, Stevenson 10
Outlook: Prospect has lost three consecutive games to Catholic League schools. All of those came in the state playoffs. So, when a mix-up in scheduling caused the Knights’ game with Rochester to be moved to next season, Prospect jumped at the opportunity to play a CCL team. The Knights look ready for the challenge, especially after beating Stevenson for the second year in a row. Prospect, which usually leans heavily on the passing game, showed it has a solid ground game as well. Matt Donnelly looked terrific running for 175 yards and three touchdowns while quarterback Jackson Cacini ran for another. St. Laurence, which advanced to the Class 5A semifinals last season, is led by linebacker and Illini-commit Sean Rice.
Rolling Meadows (0-1) at Schaumburg (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: St. Patrick 54, Rolling Meadows 27; Antioch 33, Schaumburg 27
Outlook: Both teams are looking to bounce back after disappointing losses. It could be a battle of running backs with Meadows’ Luke Harvey and Schaumburg’s Xavier Tudela. Harvey’s 145 yards and two touchdowns kept the Mustangs in the game early before St. Pat’s pulled away. Schaumburg also was able to put points on the board as the offense accounted for 398 yards. Tudela had a huge game rushing for 179 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback Dylan Ramirez also came up big, tossing for 146 yards along with a key two-point conversion.
Lincoln-Way Central (0-1) at Barrington (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Sacred Heart-Griffin 27, Lincoln-Way Central 23; Lyons 24, Barrington 19
Outlook: Barrington lost its season opener for the first time since 2022. The Broncos offense took some time to warm up as Lyons built a 20-6 lead. Barrington was able to climb back behind the running of Lamar Osterhuis, who ran for 86 yards and a touchdown. Vince Costa also had a 93-yard kickoff return for a touchdown as the Broncos special teams came up big. Lincoln-Way Central had a rally of its own fall short. The Knights came back from a 20-3 deficit to lead 23-20 in the fourth quarter before falling.
Taft (1-0) at Conant (1-0)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Taft 28, Niles West 7; Conant 21, Bartlett 0
Outlook: Conant had a solid game on both sides of the ball last week. The Cougars rushed for 298 yards on kept the ball away from Bartlett, running 53 plays to the Hawks’ 34. Anthony Burns led the Cougars rushing attack while Jackson Spizzirri, Ivan Haralanov, Tyler Mickelson and quarterback Tyler Marchese kept the Bartlett defense on the field. Conant will have to contain Taft running back Eduardo Salinas, who rushed for 211 yards and three touchdowns while catching a pass for another touchdown last week.
Fremd (1-0) at Glenbrook South (0-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Fremd 20, Lake Zurich 0; York 20, Glenbrook South 17
Outlook: Fremd showed last week there is life after Johnny O’Brien. Will Clark came in and threw for 213 yards and ran for a touchdown. Veteran receivers Carter McDonald (64 yards), Ben Riddle (59 yards) and newcomer MJ Castelloni were the beneficiaries of most of the passes. The Vikings defense was also superb, stuffing Lake Zurich while linebacker Tom O’Brien had a 19-yard scoop and score. Glenbrook South has not played Fremd since 2022 and beat the Vikings 42-14 in that game.
Palatine (1-0) at Evanston (1-0)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Palatine 20, Kenwood 18; Evanston 50, Phillips 6
Outlook: Palatine went down to Chicago last week and delivered new head coach Chad Bobbit his first victory. The Pirates will be making another long trip this week. Brandon Martino looks to have another solid game after tossing three touchdown passes in the opener. Tristan Corrado, Jayden Evans and Brennan Wright were all on the receiving end of Martino scoring strikes. Elias Egbe helped lead the defense, which turned away Kenwood’s two-point extra point attempt late in the game. Kenwood beat Philips a year ago 40-0. Evanston is coached by former Elk Grove coach and Prospect quarterback Miles Osei.
St. Viator (0-1) vs. St. Patrick (1-0) at Triton College
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year: St. Patrick 44, St. Viator 21
Last week: St. Ignatius 51, St. Viator 0; St. Patrick 54, Rolling Meadows 27
Outlook: Viator had a tough opener with the Lions struggling at home against a solid 8A team. Now Viator will travel to River Grove to take on a St. Patrick team and Shamrock head coach Tom Zbikowski that scored 54 points last week. Viator has had its way with the Shamrocks in past seasons, winning three straight and five of the last six games before losing last season.
Antioch (1-0) at Lake Zurich (0-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Antioch 33, Schaumburg 27; Fremd 20, Lake Zurich 0
Last year: Lake Zurich 33, Antioch 0
Outlook: Our Lake County Blue Plate Special of the Week pits two historically strong squads against each other. “Lake Zurich is a huge test,” Antioch coach Brian Glashagel said. “They are always a playoff team, a larger school than us and historically one of the top-notch programs. This is a quarterfinal-type playoff game in Week 2. They owned us last year.” Glashagel noted Gavin Stone’s rushing (186 yards on 24 carries, three TDs) and Ethan Patel’s passing (132 yards on six completions, one TD) were difference-makers in the Week 1 win against Schaumburg. He added Chance Verden (three catches, 76 yards) had a good game at wide receiver, while Harrison Victor was outstanding at tight end…. Lake Zurich coach Dragan Teonic noted Copper Burzawa and Killian Glick played well in Week 1…”Antioch is a well-coached team with a lot of size and speed,” he said. Antioch received votes in the new Class 5A state poll, as did Lake Zurich in the 6A poll.
Vernon Hills (0-1) at Lakes (0-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Grayslake North 42, Vernon Hills 21; Glenbrook North 15, Lakes 6
Last year: Lakes 49, Vernon Hills 6
Outlook: New Vernon Hills coach Colton Jewell is a Lakes graduate and played for Eagles coach Jason Ellerman. “I am excited to return to and coach on Polley Field,” Jewell said. “It will be a good matchup for both sides.” Colin McMurray threw for 182 yards and three TDs for Vernon Hills in Week 1, while Brian Ayvazian had five catches for 99 yards (61 long) and two TDs… “Colin coming out and performing with this new offense was amazing to see,” Jewell said. Jewell added sophomore Charlie McRae came in clutch with explosive plays, while Jonathan Keats, after missing his junior year to injury, showed up and performed on defense, while senior Mikey Lewis had 9 tackles for the Cougars… Ellerman also is looking forward to a reunion with Jewell. “I think that will be a cool experience for both of us,” he said. Ellerman noted running back Nate Velez has made big improvements from last year and the Vernon Hills coaching staff is expecting big things from him… Ellerman added the Eagles get some reinforcements in Week 2 in senior RB-LB Robbie Siebert, offensive lineman Liam Riordan and senior wideout Aidan Hack.
Round Lake (1-0) at Streamwood (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Round Lake 18, Larkin 14; Streamwood 34, Elmwood Park 14
Outlook: Two teams that had a combined four wins last year took big steps forward with season-opening victories. “Streamwood has a lot of athletes and runs the ball really well,” Round Lake coach Randi Dey said. “Their lines on both sides are explosive…” Evan West threw for 231 yards and 2 scores for the Panthers against Larkin, while Jeremiah Kelly ran for 95 yards and 1 TD and Jaquan Jamerson had 2 catches for 118 yards, including a 98-yard touchdown catch. Dylan Wright was key on defense with 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Dey said Dashuan Jackson Polk was one of Round Lake’s most impactful players due to his tenacity rushing to the quarterback, while tight end Johnny Artega not only made big catches in Week 1 but was cited for strong blocking as well… Streamwood ran for 403 yards against Elmwood Park with QB Aden Sanchez rushing for 119 yards on 13 carries, RB Justin Brown going for 117 yards on nine carries with two scores and slot back Armani Pierce running six times for 95 yards (TD)… Coach Don Guindon said junior running back Alexander Castiglione had a great first varsity game with nine rushes for 65 yards and two TDs and five tackles. … Senior linebacker Tyler Nelson had five tackles and a sack… The Chicago Bears are hosting a Latino Heritage Night at Millennium Field Friday for the Sabres tackle and flag football teams.
Glenbrook North (1-0) at Grant Community (0-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Mundelein 20, Grant 16; Glenbrook North 15, Lakes 6
Last year: Grant 40, Glenbrook North 20
Outlook: “Glenbrook North has nice size on the offensive and defensive lines,” Grant coach Tim Norwood said. “We need to by physical up front…” Norwood liked Jackson Fudala’s explosive play-making ability in Week 1 (ran for 29 yards and a touchdown and caught two balls for 73 yards against Mundelein), while Wyatt Cornell had 15 tackles…Norwood lauded senior linebacker Logan Hamm, who had his first start on the varsity “and was very disruptive,” he said. Glenbrook North, out of the new Central Suburban Conference Central Division, went 2-7 a year ago.
Mundelein (1-0) at Grayslake Central (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Mundelein 20, Grant 16; Grayslake Central 41, Tinley Park 31
Outlook: Mundelein coach Johnny Cowhey pointed out his team had 3 double-digit play drives last week that resulted in touchdowns. The combination of quarterback Tyler Johnson (101 yards passing) to wideout Cameron Earing (six catches, 78 yards, two TDs; 11 carries, 50 yards) accounted for the two fourth-quarter Mustang TDs (go-ahead TD with under 2 minutes to play).. Randy Heistand (eight tackles, two for loss) and Toby Heikes (seven tackles, two for loss) stood out on defense..Cowhey added that junior two-way players Dylan Leipold (S and RB) and Reyes Zepeda (RG-DE-ILB) “both had huge impacts on both sides of the ball,” he said… Central piled up 303 rushing yards in Week 1 led by Ken-Ye Pendleton (179 yards, three TDs) and Ray Ray Wright (124 yards, three TDs)…Rams coach Brent Pitt noted Jayden Musial played with great energy and physicality and was consistently around the ball, while Jack Patton continues to bring a physical and consistent approach every day. “Jack does a lot of things that don’t show up in the stat sheet, but those things are important to our success,” Pitt said.
Maine West (0-1) at Wauconda (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Wauconda 32, Hinsdale South 21; Elk Grove 20, Maine West 6
Last year: Wauconda 35, Maine West 14
Outlook: Wauconda had a plethora of key contributors in its Week 1 win, including Brody Rudolph (10 tackles, three rushing TDs), Luke Sickmeir (four catches, 119 yards, two interceptions), Finn Loomis (seven tackles), Jarren Cooley (five tackles, INT), Elijah Tang (INT) and Brian Hart (12 carries, 75 yards, TD)… Bulldogs coach Chris Prostka added Brody Drozd was getting good pressure on the Hinsdale South quarterback throughout the game and ended up with two sacks “and showed relentless effort,” he said…. Wauconda had five takeaways in Week 1… Maine West coach George Klupchak noted Zaire Domino (22 carries, 54 yards) gained tough yards on the ground in the Elk Grove game, while defensive lineman JJ Torres “was extremely active in the trenches,” he said. Warriors wideout Davion Tate had four catches for 51 yards and a score… “Wauconda is an excellent team that plays with tremendous discipline and physicality on both sides,” Klupchak said. “It’s obvious why they have had such great success in recent years.” Wauconda received votes in the new Class 6A state poll.
Wheeling (0-1) at Grayslake North (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Grayslake North 42, Vernon Hills 21; Oak Lawn Community 60, Wheeling 0
Outlook: The Knights allowed only 29 rushing yards last week, won the turnover battle, but had seven penalties.. Junior QB Jaylen Newkirk ran for two touchdowns and threw two more in Week 1, while junior running back Jaden Kelly ran 15 times for 95 yards and a touchdown. Juniors Brooklyn Washington, Brenyn Jay Villanueva (five tackles, INT) and Angel Rosiles (four tackles, sack) also were key, as were juniors Riley Nelson (six tackles, sack) and Guillermo Ruiz (WR-DB). Johnson said Nelson gained 30 pounds in the offseason and was one of the team’s hardest workers, while Ruiz also has improved tremendously in technique and made a strong transition to a new defensive position…Wheeling senior Alex Mitroi led the way with five tackles last week, while Evan Watanuki, Jonathan Peak and Mark Zamora also got in the mix. Wildcats coach Ryan Gronwick said Zamora and senior Jadiel Lorenzo proved why their experience from last year is valuable, both showed consistency on both sides of the ball..
Warren Township (0-1) at Maine South (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Loyola Academy 31, Warren 0; Batavia 49, Maine South 35
Last year: Maine South 42, Warren 14
Outlook: A heavyweight battle featuring traditional Class 8A heavyweights. “Maine South plays tough, hard-nosed football with a moxie,” Warren coach Bryan McNulty said. “Our best days are ahead of us.” Backup quarterback Will Shilling completed 10 of 15 passes last week. … McNulty added defensive lineman Kaden Millbrooks played extremely well, and feels Millbrooks will be a big-time Division I prospect by season’s end…. Maine South coach Dave Inserra said one big positive from the Batavia game was strong collective offensive line play that included no sacks allowed, 419 yards of total offense (252 ground, 167 air) and a display of good leadership… Jameson Purcell passed for 167 yards, while Payton Donaldson ran for 147 yards and two scores, Matthew Schlenhardt ran for 105 yards and two TDs and Keaton Vitel had 68 receiving yards and a score…Inserra also liked how Aidan Connolly and Mark Orzula played on the defensive line… “We need more of them to stop a physical Warren team,” he said. Maine South is ranked 11th in the most recent Class 8A state poll.
Libertyville (0-1) at Naperville North (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Geneva 28, Libertyville 14; New Trier 45, Naperville North 13
Last year: Naperville North 21, Libertyville 14
Outlook: Wildcats coach Tim Budge liked how his team continued to fight despite being down 21-0 to Geneva at one point. “They showed a lot of resilience,” Budge said. Kaden Butt (78 rushing yards, nine tackles) and Brock Williams (strong tight end play, three QB hurries on the defensive line) were two-way stars while Charlie Paden caught five balls for 75 yards. Naperville North coach Sean Drendel thought his squad did a good job on defense in the first half against New Trier “holding a good quarterback down,” he said. Drendel added inside linebackers John Lyons and Jake Brooks had good games, as did strong safety Carmen Gehrs. Libertyville received votes this week in the Class 7A state poll.
Stevenson (0-1) at Wheaton North (1-0)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last week: Prospect 31, Stevenson 10; Wheaton North 21, Washington 0
Last year: Stevenson 10, Wheaton North 7
Outlook: Patriots coach Brent Becker told area observers to get eyes on their Week 1 opponent Prospect (ranked 10th in 7A this week). Ryan Tarr booted a 41-yard field goal last week, while Isaiah Yun had an interception and a sack. Eli Sigal had a rushing touchdown and Brody Delevitt made 11 tackles…Wheaton North coach Joe Wardynski sees a similar situation from a year ago where the Falcons won their opener and Stevenson was coming off a loss to a very good Prospect team. “On film we see some new players from Stevenson, but they are still playing the same physical brand of football that people come to expect…” Wardynski liked how senior running back Walker Owens played against Washington (178 rushing yards on 22 carries, two TDs); senior defensive backs Aidan Lucas and Jack Clark also were cited for strong play. Both were involved in multiple tackles and combined on a pick where Lucas tipped a pass and Clark intercepted it. Wardynski liked how the Falcons defense played in the second half, even on some short fields…North has three starters returning on each side of the ball.
Lake Forest (0-1) at Carmel Catholic (0-1)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Deerfield 6, Lake Forest 0; Hersey 38, Carmel 22
Last year: Carmel 51, Lake Forest 7
Outlook: Carmel looks to rebound after a loss to a Class 7A No. 3-ranked Hersey team that generated 477 yards of total offense…Carmel comes into Week 2 ranked sixth in the new Illinois Media Class 6A state poll… Carmel quarterback Reed Dangel threw for 281 yards in his Corsairs debut (transferred from Warren), while wideout Kyron Hart caught six passes for 112 yards.
Montini (1-0) at Sandburg (1-0)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Montini 48, Hoopeston 0; Sandburg 28, Riverside-Brookfield 6
Outlook: The two-time defending state champion Broncos captured their 25th consecutive victory last weekend against Hoopeston. Senior quarterback Izzy Abrams completed 9 of 15 passes for 192 yards and three touchdowns — to Damacio Ortegon, Daniel Sago, and Orlando Greco, while Joey Neustadt caught four passes for 102 yards. Defensively, Blake Pohlman and Greco collected eight tackles apiece, while Drew Chrastka added an interception in the shutout victory. Sandburg junior quarterback Max Fahey tossed four touchdown passes — two of them to 6-foot-4 senior receiver Lucas Matykiewicz — last week.
Clemente (0-1) at St. Francis (0-1)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Kennedy 1, Clemente 0; New Palestine (Ind.) 28, St. Francis 17
Outlook: Last weekend, St. Francis dropped a 28-17 decision to New Palestine in a battle between Illinois and Indiana Class 5A defending state champions. Tailback Tivias Caldwell scored a pair of touchdowns for the Spartans, while Evan Kolinski added a field goal. Now, the Spartans await their home opener against a Clemente team that forfeited its season opener against Kennedy last weekend. Spartans starting quarterback Jadon Wilson suffered an upper body injury last week, forcing junior Alex Taylor into action.
Benet Academy (1-0) at Glenbard North (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Benet Academy 34, Lena-Winslow 28; Glenbard North 27, Brookfield East (Wis.) 12
Last year: Glenbard North 41, Benet Academy 14
Outlook: Benet Academy first-year head coach James White recorded his first victory during last weekend’s 34-28 road win over defending Class 1A state champion Lena-Winslow. Luca Diomede provided a special teams highlight with a kickoff return for a touchdown. Glenbard North provided first-year head coach Justin Kerwin with his first triumph, as senior tailback Angelo Gatses picked up where his older brother, Donato, left off a year ago, carrying the ball 22 times for 147 yards and four touchdowns..Gatses also collected a team-high eight tackles on defense, while linebacker Zach Hvorcik added seven stops and sophomore Julian Brasfield had a pair of sacks.
IC Catholic Prep (1-0) vs. St. Mary’s, Mo. (0-0)
Where: Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington.
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: IC Catholic Prep 35, Nazareth 21
Last year: IC Catholic Prep 33, St. Mary’s 7
Outlook: The Knights began their season with an impressive 35-21 victory against a stacked Nazareth team looking for its fourth state title in five seasons. Quarterback Nate Lang completed 16 of 22 passes for 246 yards and three touchdowns, while junior receiver Grant Bowen, who has received 35 Division 1 offers, caught five passes for 108 yards and a pair of TDs. Sophomore tailback Jakobe Baldwin gained 204 yards on 19 carries with two touchdowns as the Knights’ primary ball carrier. St. Mary’s, considered as a top small-school contender in the St. Louis area, features Missouri commit tailback Kingston Miles, who has rushed for more than 2,000 yards with 25 touchdowns heading into his senior campaign.
Lisle (1-0) at St. Edward (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Lisle 49, Aurora Central Catholic 28; St. Edward 36, Walther Christian 6
Outlook: The Lions, who played a JV schedule last season, made a triumphant return to varsity action with last weekend’s 49-28 victory over 2025 playoff qualifier Aurora Central Catholic. Led by Payton Swartzendruber (133 yards, touchdown) and JT Tumbarelli (92 yards, two TDs), Lisle rushed for 362 yards in its season opener. Senior Noah Nigro led the defense with 16 tackles, including a caused fumble, and Nathan Garcia added eight tackles and an interception. St. Edward also began its season on a positive note, as two-way junior Jake Linkowski had a 37-yard touchdown run and returned an interception 61 yards for another score last weekend.
LaSalle-Peru (1-0) at Wheaton Academy (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: LaSalle-Peru 59, Springfield Lanphier 14; Wheaton Academy 28, East Moline United 14
Outlook: Warriors first-year head coach Justin Swider picked up his first victory during last weekend’s 28-14 road win at East Moline United. Western Illinois commit Logan Oros tallied all four of his team’s touchdowns — two rushing and two receiving — while quarterback Colton Miller tossed a pair of touchdown passes. Defensively, Jake Shales and Kaden Larsen each had interceptions for Wheaton Academy, which faces a LaSalle-Peru squad that scored touchdowns on eight of its nine possessions last weekend.
Glenbard South (1-0) at Lake Park (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Glenbard South 56, Bremen 6; Plainfield North 22, Lake Park 15
Outlook: Raiders junior tailback Elijah Donahue got the ball rolling with a 10-yard touchdown run last week, while quarterback Tommy Bauman tossed three first-half touchdown passes, including a 70-yard strike to Anthony Baldauf, and a hurry-up, five-yard toss on the final play of the first half. Lake Park junior receiver Drew D’Alessandro had 82 yards receiving, and seniors Max Wolff and Kosta Zepeda collected 10 and nine tackles, respectively.
Lyons Township (1-0) at Wheaton Warrenville South (1-0)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Lyons Township 24, Barrington 19; WW South 27, Naperville Central 7
Last year: Lyons Township 31, WW South 28
Outlook: Lyons Township head coach Jon Beutjer established a then-national high school record with 60 touchdown passes during his senior season at WW South back in the late 1990s. He returns to Wheaton with a strong Lions squad fresh off a 24-19 season-opening victory over Barrington. The Tigers’ defense will be tested by Lyons tailback EJ Kuhlman, who carried the ball 32 times for 132 yards last weekend. WW South features junior quarterback AJ Rogers, who accounted for 232 total yards and two passing touchdowns against Naperville Central. On the ground, junior Trent Simpson gained 133 yards, highlighted by his 74-yard touchdown run in the second half. Sophomore kicker Drew Maletich booted field goals covering 44 and 30 yards, respectively.
New Trier (1-0) at Waubonsie Valley (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: New Trier 45, Naperville North 13; Hinsdale Central 27, Waubonsie Valley 10
Last year: New Trier 24, Waubonsie Valley 14
Outlook: The Trevians outscored Naperville North 29-6 in the second half.. Purdue quarterback commit Jackie Ryder is a dual threat, flanked by Throy Nightingale, Jr., and Paul Liang. Waubonsie Valley junior quarterback Nolan Alberson tossed a 60-yard touchdown pass to Aaron Williams against Hinsdale Central last weekend. Matt Rodriguez added a 23-yard field goal for the Warriors, who await their home opener.
Lockport (0-1) at Naperville Central (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Glenbard West 21, Lockport 14; WW South 27, Naperville Central 7
Last year: Lockport 14, Naperville Central 7
Outlook: The Redhawks moved the ball at times last week but only managed one touchdown — a 1-yard run by Ryan Jacobson. Receiver Mark Williams caught three passes for 74 yards, while quarterback Simon Hayes threw for 187 yards. Lockport fell short against Glenbard West, as a red-zone sack and fumble and unsuccessful late fourth-down run proved costly. Quarterback Griffin Russell and running back Rory Radatz anchor the Porters’ attack.
Neuqua Valley (0-1) at Minooka (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Oswego 44, Neuqua Valley 22; St. Charles North 28, Minooka 7
Last year: Minooka 14, Neuqua Valley 12
Outlook: Quarterback Drake Mennecke connected with receiver Will Kalish for three touchdown passes during the Wildcats’ season-opening loss. Neuqua led 16-15 late in the first half before being outscored 29-6 the rest of the way. Minooka also kicked off its season with a dud. Junior running back Quinn Schiffbauer gained 144 yards on 21 carries.
Plainfield Central (1-0) at Metea Valley (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Plainfield Central 59, East Aurora 36; St. Charles East 27, Metea Valley 10
Last year: Metea Valley 48, Plainfield Central 7
Outlook: Junior quarterback Iggy Amorrortu threw a TD pass to Tito Abijola for Metea last week. The Mustangs’ defense, which allowed 425 yards, now prepares for a Plainfield Central squad that racked up 400 rushing yards and 59 points against East Aurora. Quarterback Tommy Morrisette threw a pair of touchdown passes and rushed for 187 yards and three touchdowns.
Fenton (1-0) at East Aurora (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Fenton 41, Maine East 7; Plainfield Central 59, East Aurora 36
Last year: Fenton 33, East Aurora 6
Outlook: The Bison opened their season with a 41-point outburst that included a 35-yard touchdown run from Luke Loncar and a 53-yard punt return. East Aurora features senior receiver Daivon Douglas, who caught touchdown passes from senior quarterback Joseph Becker covering 42 and 55 yards, while also scoring on a 65-yard reverse. Mason Estrada added a safety for the Tomcats.
Plainfield North (1-0) at Glenbard East (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Plainfield North 22, Lake Park 15; Willowbrook 20, Glenbard East 13
Outlook: Plainfield North heads to Lombard with momentum. Southpaw quarterback Collin Nickel directs the Tigers’ attack, flanked by tailbacks Julian Rodriguez and Nick Wilson. Sophomore left-hander Carter Pohlman leads the Rams’ offense, while two-way threat Montii Perry anchors the backfield. Austin Siebert recovered a fumble in the opener.
West Aurora (0-1) at Hinsdale Central (1-0)
Friday: 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Downers Grove South 35, West Aurora 14; Hinsdale Central 27, Waubonsie Valley 10
Last year: Hinsdale Central 56, West Aurora 7
Outlook: Senior tailback Bryce Riley enjoyed a superb season debut, rushing for 175 yards and a touchdown while also scoring a pair of receiving touchdowns. Quarterback Tyler Fecht tossed two touchdown passes, and junior Michael Williams added 70 rushing yards and a touchdown with six tackles on defense. Hinsdale Central junior tailback Mikey Menza tallied a pair of touchdowns last week.
Bartlett (0-1) at Addison Trail (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Conant 21, Bartlett 0; Addison Trail 40, West Chicago 12
Outlook: Stymied by Conant last weekend, the Hawks travel to Addison to face a talented Blazers squad coming off a 28-point triumph. Bartlett, limited to 110 yards of offense last weekend, looks to rebound in sophomore quarterback Parker Mulhall’s second varsity start. The Blazers displayed big-play ability against West Chicago, as quarterback Robert Morales hit Jaden Romeus on a 65-yard touchdown pass and Michael Clementi added a 51-yard touchdown run. Defensively, middle linebacker Jack Carlson recovered a fumble, and Ulizes Merino forced a fumble.
Riverside-Brookfield (0-1) at Hinsdale South (0-1)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Sandburg 28, R-B 6; Wauconda 32, Hinsdale South 21
Last year: R-B 41, Hinsdale South 20
Outlook: Senior middle linebacker/running back Anthony Lembcke accounted for the Bulldogs’ lone touchdown on a one-yard plunge last weekend. Quarterback Braeden Novak and sophomore receiver James Organ connected on a few big-play completions. Hinsdale South senior quarterback Benjamin Miller displayed his running ability with a 32-yard scramble for a first down.
Downers Grove South (1-0) at Downers Grove North (1-0)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Downers Grove South 35, West Aurora 14; Downers Grove North 17, Morgan Park 12
Last year: Downers Grove North 55, Downers Grove South 14
Outlook: The battle of Downers Grove features a pair of squads fresh from season-opening victories. Mustangs junior quarterback James Sobkowiak delivered with his arm and his legs, completing a 52-yard touchdown pass to Nate Thurston. Senior back Vincent Junkas added a 50-yard touchdown run. The Mustangs are looking to snap a 10-game skid against their crosstown rivals. Trojans quarterback Kevin Jay tossed a 55-yard touchdown pass against Morgan Park before limping off the field with an apparent lower body injury. Junior Joe Goodwin stepped in and connected with Grant Georgas on a 71-yard touchdown pass. Trojans coach Joe Horoni owns an 8-0 career mark against Downers South. The Trojans have won the last three meetings by a combined 132-27 margin.
Willowbrook (1-0) at Oswego East (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Willowbrook 20, Glenbard East 13; Oswego East 28, Joliet West 14
Last year: Oswego East 24, Willowbrook 7
Outlook: The Warriors’ Niko Demos scored a touchdown on a 16-yard reverse, while junior quarterback Carter Holland enjoyed his first varsity start last week. Willowbrook’s defense faces Oswego East’s 6-foot, 200-pound junior tailback Obadiah Carlson, who scored three rushing touchdowns. Sophomore quarterback Carter Meindel directs the Wolves’ offense.
York (1-0) at Nazareth (0-1)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: York 20, Glenbrook South 17; IC Catholic Prep 35, Nazareth 21
Outlook: Dukes quarterback Zack Assaad threw a pair of touchdown passes and added a scoring run last week. Senior 205-pounder Chris Georgas headlines York’s offensive backfield. The defense will be tested by Nazareth junior quarterback JJ Chapman, who threw for 303 yards and three touchdowns last week. The Roadrunners captured three straight Class 5A state titles from 2022-2024 before losing in the 6A semifinals last season.
Gage Park (0-1) at Westmont (1-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday.
Last week: Solario Academy 5, Gage Park (forfeit); Westmont 16, Chicago-Disney 12
Outlook: Sentinels quarterback Trevor Robertson scored a pair of short-yardage touchdown runs last week. Junior offensive lineman Damian Hurtado paved the way for Robertson, who received support from tailback Charles Steketee. Gage Park, one of the Chicago Public League’s smaller football-playing schools with an enrollment of 296, forfeited its season opener.
St. Rita (0-1) at Glenbard West (1-0)
When: Saturday 1:30 p.m.
Last week: Providence 28, St. Rita 21; Glenbard West 21, Lockport 14
Outlook: The defending Class 7A state runner-up Mustangs suffered a tough 28-21 loss to Providence Catholic despite a 100-yard receiving game from TJ Burgos, who added a pair of touchdowns. Dual-threat quarterback John Fennell directs St. Rita’s offense, while defensive back Seamus O’Leary collected a team-high 12 tackles against Providence. Glenbard West’s Northwestern commit Brady Johnson used his 6-3, 230-pound frame to grab a touchdown pass over a Lockport defender in the season opener, while Ace Harris added a pair of short-yardage touchdown runs. Linebacker Charlie Gasteier’s fourth-down stop sealed the victory.
St. Charles North (1-0) at South Elgin (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: St. Charles North 28, Minooka 7; South Elgin 21, Orlando Oak Ridge (Fla.) 6
Outlook: St. Charles North quarterbacks Landon Conroy and Dash Von Qualen combined for 290 yards of total offense last week. Senior tailback Tommy Vendl added 127 yards rushing on 23 carries with a touchdown, while senior linebacker Miguel Mendoza and sophomore defensive back Julian Kutypa (interception) paced the defense. North Stars coach Rob Pomazak liked the physicality his team displayed. South Elgin’s defense proved stubborn against the run last week. Storm coach Pat Pistorio felt the Florida trip was an opportunity to bring the community together, creating memories the players and their families will carry for a long time.
Elgin (0-1) at Aurora Christian (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Woodstock North 42, Elgin 14; Aurora Christian 27, Ottawa Marquette 18
Outlook: The Maroons received solid offensive efforts from senior quarterback Jacob Rufino (273 yards passing, two touchdowns), junior receiver Ja’Miere Moore (three catches, 101 yards, TD), and junior receiver Dan Beckett (77 yards, TD) last weekend. Junior tailback Jalen Callaway enjoyed a memorable season debut, scoring three touchdowns — two rushing and one receiving — during Aurora Christian’s Week 1 win. Sophomore quarterback Juju Vasquez tossed a 31-yard touchdown pass to Callaway, as the Eagles built a 27-6 second-half lead. Class 1A Aurora Christian has a rare opportunity to face Class 8A Elgin.
Lincoln Park (1-0) at Marmion (0-1)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Lincoln Park 28, North Lawndale 0; Racine Lutheran (Wis.) 23, Marmion 21
Outlook: Lincoln Park quarterback Stephen Akwafo connected with senior receiver Max Pilliod on a 30-yard touchdown pass during the Lions’ shutout victory last weekend. Senior running back Henry Miller tallied a pair of first-half touchdowns for the Cadets during their loss. Aidan Miller added a fourth-quarter touchdown reception for Marmion.
Batavia (1-0) at Rochester (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Batavia 49, Maine South 35; Rochester 21, Moline 17
Outlook: Senior quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren enjoyed a fantastic season opener, as the Wyoming commit completed 28 of 35 passes for 436 yards and five touchdowns in the Bulldogs’ 49-35 Week 1 victory over perennial power Maine South. Senior receiver Darin Ashiru, a Western Michigan commit, caught 10 passes for 149 yards and a pair of touchdowns for the Bulldogs, who prepare for their first road clash against a Rochester program that has captured nine Class 4A and 5A state championships since 2010.
Oswego (1-0) at Geneva (1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Oswego 44, Neuqua Valley 22; Geneva 28, Libertyville 14
Last season: Oswego 35, Geneva 6
Outlook: Oswego, the defending Class 8A state runner-up, opened its season with a 44-22 home win over Neuqua Valley, as tailback Ammar Banire accounted for 286 yards of total offense and scored five touchdowns — one on a 93-yard run. Quarterback Drew Kleinhans directs a potent Panthers offense. Geneva has a game breaker of its own in senior receiver Bennett Konkey, who returned the game’s opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown last Friday. Konkey, an Illinois commit, added touchdown receptions covering 70 and 49 yards, respectively. Senior quarterback Ben Peterson, an Eastern Michigan commit, and senior two-way threat Nelson Wendell will be tested by a physical Oswego defense.
St. Charles East (1-0) at Highland Park (0-1)
When: Friday 6:30 p.m.
Last week: St. Charles East 27, Metea Valley 10; Leyden 28, Highland Park 23
Outlook: The Saints played well on both sides of the ball in Week 1. Junior quarterback Cruz Herrera guided the Saints to more than 425 yards of total offense, as St. Charles East opened the season with a victory for the first time since 2022. Defensively, the Saints limited the Mustangs to a lone first-half field goal. Now, they face a Highland Park squad that features 225-pound junior tailback John Boman, who rushed for 178 yards and a pair of touchdowns against Leyden.
Hampshire (0-1, 0-1) at Jacobs (1-0, 1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Huntley 49, Hampshire 0; Jacobs 20, Cary-Grove 7
Last year: Jacobs 53, Hampshire 13
Outlook: The Whip-Purs face a Jacobs squad that has momentum after posting a 20-7 victory over Cary-Grove — the team’s first win over the Trojans since 2022. Jacobs two-way threat Aiden Brunner scored all three of the touchdowns on a pass reception, short run, and 21-yard fumble recovery, while rushing for 117 yards. Defensively, Jacobs blanked Cary-Grove for the final three quarters.
Crystal Lake South (1-0, 1-0) at Burlington Central (1-0, 1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Crystal Lake South 22, Prairie Ridge 7; Burlington Central 13, Dundee-Crown 3
Last year: Burlington Central 21, Crystal Lake South 0
Outlook: The Gators travel to Rocket Hill with a head of steam following last weekend’s 22-8 victory over defending Fox Valley Conference champion Prairie Ridge. Quarterback Michael Silvius tossed a 61-yard touchdown pass to Yeidan Ramirez and scored on a four-yard run as Crystal Lake South matched last year’s season victory total. First-year starting quarterback Reece Beemer connected with Bennek Braden on a 50-yard touchdown pass for the Rockets against Dundee-Crown. Braden also helped the cause on defense with his second-half interception.
Dundee-Crown (0-1, 0-1) at McHenry (1-0, 1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Burlington Central 13, Dundee-Crown 3; McHenry 19, Crystal Lake Central 13
Last year: McHenry 17, Dundee-Crown 14
Outlook: The Chargers showed plenty of fight during their loss to Burlington Central, recovering a fumble in the fourth quarter near midfield. Senior quarterback Isaac Grzynkowicz connected with tight end Terrance Powell for a long pass for one of the team’s offensive highlights. Senior Mick Reidy, junior Joey Spelman, and freshman Max Michalski combined for 210 rushing yards and a pair of touchdowns for the Warriors last week.
Cary-Grove (0-1, 0-1) at Prairie Ridge (0-1, 0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Jacobs 20, Cary-Grove 7; Crystal Lake South 22, Prairie Ridge 7
Last year: Prairie Ridge 34, Cary-Grove 21
Outlook: These two Fox Valley Conference powerhouse programs find themselves in an unusual position after Week 1 — both are 0-1. Defending FVC champion Prairie Ridge and Cary-Grove have combined to win or share the past nine conference titles, with the Wolves owning a 6-3 mark against the Trojans since 2016. Turnovers and penalties plagued Cary-Grove last weekend. Quarterback Jackson Berndt was a bright spot, rushing for 116 yards, including a 72-yard touchdown. Neither squad reached double figures last weekend — an amazing stat considering Prairie Ridge averaged 40 points per game in 2025, while Cary-Grove averaged 36 points.
Crystal Lake Central (0-1, 0-1) at Huntley (1-0, 1-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: McHenry 19, Crystal Lake Central 13; Huntley 49, Hampshire 0
Last year: Huntley 42, Crystal Lake Central 0
Outlook: The Red Raiders showed superb balance during last week’s 49-0 season-opening win over Hampshire. Quarterback Malik Carter completed 83% of his passes with a pair of touchdown passes, while tailback Chase Hojnacki rushed for three touchdowns in limited duty. Defensively, linebackers Eli Bruns and Ethan Albertson each recorded interceptions. Winless a year ago, Crystal Lake Central displayed improvements on both sides of the ball vs. McHenry.
Kaneland (1-0) at Lemont (0-1)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last week: Kaneland 49, Rock Island 7; Morris 56, Lemont 16
Last year: Kaneland 42, Lemont 37
Outlook: Brody Guthrie enjoyed his season opener, completing nine of 11 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns. Cornerback Mikey Spallasso paced a strong defensive effort. Lemont, led by quarterback Mike Preuss, allowed 173 yards and three touchdowns to Morris quarterback Marion Persich.
Larkin (0-1) at Johnsburg (0-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last week: Round Lake 18, Larkin 14; Manteno 33, Johnsburg 20
Outlook: Larkin junior quarterback Brian Watson tossed a pair of touchdown passes covering 13 yards to Kamryn Bartee and 28 yards to Pedro Vargas against Round Lake. Junior Jeremiah Williamson led the defense with a fumble recovery, as the Royals took plenty of positives from their season opener. Johnsburg, coming off a 33-20 loss to Manteno, features senior slot receiver Ryan Franze, who has had 128 receptions the past two seasons. A year ago, Franze caught 62 passes for 931 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Aurora Central Catholic (0-1) at Christ the King (0-1)
When: Saturday 2 p.m.
Last week: Lisle 49, Aurora Central Catholic 28; Von Steuben 16, Christ the King 8
Last year: Aurora Central Catholic 26, Christ the King 20
Outlook: ACC’s defense, which allowed 362 rushing yards and five touchdowns in the season opener, faces a Christ the King offense held scoreless for 3 ½ quarters against Von Steuben. Senior two-way threat Jeremy Robinson is one of the Gladiators’ top performers.