Tigers know mistakes will be the key
They've combined for 24 semifinal appearances, played in 15 title games and won 11 state championships.
On Saturday they meet for the first time.
Top-seeded Wheaton Warrenville South (12-0) plays No. 3 East St. Louis (11-1) in the Class 7A semifinals at Wheaton's Red Grange Field in a showdown between two storied football programs.
Beyond just geographical distances, the teams are worlds apart.
WW South is a seasoned, experienced postseason group making its fourth straight semifinal appearance. The Flyers -- with a roster of 14 freshmen, 24 sophomores and only 12 seniors -- are in the semis for the first time in 12 years.
It's the latest in a string of intriguing matchups for the Tigers, who are coming off impressive wins over St. Rita and Morgan Park.
"We've got a similar game here," said Tigers coach Ron Muhitch. "It's going to be a game about mistakes."
Six interceptions of Morgan Park passes went a long way in determining WW South's 24-0 win over the Mustangs, but the Tigers can't expect similar turnovers Saturday.
The Flyers boast an explosive offense with sophomore quarterback Detchauz Wray, who's thrown for 1,982 yards and 23 touchdowns. Running backs Courtney Molton and Vincent Arterbridge, a sophomore and freshman, respectively, have combined for 2,440 rushing yards.
The Tigers' offense struggled last week, although junior running back Peter Jarrett gutted out 140 yards and 2 touchdowns.
The defense powered the win, receiving 2 interceptions from Mark LaBelle and a touchdown-saving downfield tackle from Brian Ward.
The matchup is nothing new. The Tigers face another huge offensive and defensive line, scary skill players and a quality team looking to get back to the title game.
"All of our semifinal games have been tough," Muhitch said, "but our kids have shown the moxie to win games like this."