Daily Herald Week 1 high school football previews
Elk Grove (3-6) at Maine West (3-6)
When: Friday, 6:30 p.m.
Last year: Maine West 34, Elk Grove 16
Outlook: This is the third year in row these rivals have met since restarting their series. Maine West has won both of those meetings. It will be the first game on Maine West’s new football field as the Warriors unveil their new “Smurf Turf.” Maine West will be making a game-time decision at quarterback between senior Zaire Domino and sophomore Wayne Roux. Maine West’s offense will look to get moving on the ground behind Max Gutowski, Eddie Arroya and Angelo de la Torre. Wide receivers Davion Tate and Josh Abede can be big playmakers as well. Elk Grove returns seven starters including key parts of the offense. Both quarterback Luke Maher and running back Jordan Bruford make the Grens dangerous. Tight end Griffin Ewen along with wide receivers Matt DiMaria and Ryan Gomez also return. The offensive line will be comprised of all juniors with only one starter back in Quinn Folan.
Highland Park (7-3) at Leyden (4-5)
When: Friday, 6:30 p.m.
Last year: Highland Park 21, Leyden 16
Outlook: The teams have met the last four years to open the season with Highland Park winning three. Leyden is looking to change that behind seven returning players. Nehemiah Almodovar, who rushed for 453 yards in a limited role last season, will be a huge factor this season. Chris Stevens is also back at wide receiver along with Johnny Aquirre and Nate Santoyo. Sonny Falco takes over at quarterback, and the offense gets to operate behind an offensive line that averages 260 pounds. Highland Park is coming off one of its best seasons in recent years, winning the CSL North, going undefeated in conference play. The Giants return both starting quarterback Gustav Crane and running back John Bowman. Edge rusher Addison Courtman-Simanek is also a key contributor.
Maine South (10-2) at Batavia (10-3)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: This game should be a ton of fun. It features a pair of top 10 teams and also quarterbacks from each side who can really sling it. Maine South has qualified for the Class 8A quarterfinals four straight seasons. The Hawks have quarterback Jameson Purcell, who has committed to Indiana, and is a dual threat. The senior threw for 3,001 yards and 31 touchdowns last year, rushing for 297 yards and 10 touchdowns. He will be protected by an offensive line that averages 6-foot-3 and 271 pounds and is anchored by Toledo commit Vuk Strbac and Danny Podolski, who has numerous Division II offers. Syracuse commit and three-year starter Matthew Schlenhardt leads the defense. Batavia has made three consecutive semifinal appearances in 7A. Quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren threw for 2,708 yards and 31 touchdowns last year. He is committed to Wyoming and has a plethora of Division I players to throw to: tight end Thomas Prescott (Wyoming) and wide receivers Brennon Zeng (Northern Illinois) and Darin Ashiru (Western Michigan).
Buffalo Grove (3-6) at Hoffman Estates (6-4)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Hoffman Estates 55, Buffalo Grove 14
Outlook: This is the fourth year in row that these two teams have opened the season with Hoffman winning the last two. This should be a competitive game with two teams that appear to have a run-first offense. Buffalo Grove returns running back Matthew Kapur, who has an offer from Western Illinois. Kapur rushed for 583 yards and 14 touchdowns last year in a season that was cut short by injury. The Bison also have a trio of receivers returning in Mathew Hong, Jaleel Marshal and Landon Duram. Nathan Reef will start at quarterback. Hoffman will also be looking to run the ball behind what most likely is its best offensive line in a long time. Isiah Luellen, Connor Manley, Stoyan Hristov Ethan Barnes, Jerrion Glover, and Zakaria Sbai have 62 starts among them. Braylin Scales will get most of the carries while junior Shion Dailey will start at quarterback. TJ Bond, who caught 30 passes for 564 yards and 6 touchdowns last season, also returns.
Maine East (0-9) at Fenton (3-6)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: Maine East has not qualified for the state playoffs since 1977. But with the new playoff format, the Blue Demons are looking to change that. They could get off to a great start in achieving that goal with a win in Bensenville. Olajuwon Alowooja, who is a 6-foot-3 wide receiver, could be a matchup nightmare. Elijah Trevino will start at quarterback while junior Peter Khamo is taking over at running back. Fenton is looking to get back to the playoffs after qualifying in 2024. The Bison are coming off a 3-6 season last year and graduated their starting backfield. Jason Contreras, who is a senior, will take over the quarterbacking duties. The running back chores look to be handled by Angel Duran, Rene Reyna, Juan Mercade Luna and Robert Green.
Conant (3-6) at Bartlett (4-5)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: Conant looks to improve further after winning three games last year. The Cougars return 11 starters including quarterback Tyler Marchese and running back Jackson Spizzirri. Conant will operate its Wing T offense behind three starters upfront in linemen Nicolas Portilla-Palos and Joshua Choe and tight end Jaidan Thorney. Conant will have seven players going both ways. For four consecutive seasons, Bartlett has finished just outside of the playoffs. Bartlett will be counting on nine returning starters to get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2021. The Hawks’ strength appears to be linemen Jayden Cifuentes, William Bowers, Oskar Linski, Jerome Childs, Anthony Lorek and Chase Paduch.
St. Patrick (6-5) at Rolling Meadows (7-4)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: St. Patrick plays its first of two consecutive games against Northwest suburban teams. The Shamrocks host St. Viator next week. St. Pat’s is coached by former Buffalo Grove star Tommy Zbikowski and are led by 6-foot-3, 285-pound senior defensive lineman David Folorunsho, who has committed to Notre Dame and is ranked the top player in the state by Rivals and 39th in the country. Dylan Mota, who plays offensive line and is committed to Minnesota, is ranked in the top 30 players in the state. Meadows advanced to the second round of the playoffs last year and returns six players from that team, including four starters on the offensive line: Noah Brickman, Angel De La Cruz, Micheal Calderon and Frederick Hamilton. Luke Harvey, who saw time last season at both running back and linebacker, and tight end/linebacker Aiden Gallucci will also be key performers. Junior Gavin Prickett and senior Austin Lindsey are still battling at quarterback.
Oak Lawn (7-3) at Wheeling (0-9)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year: Oak Lawn 52, Wheeling 0
Outlook: After winning just two games over the previous three seasons, Oak Lawn exploded last season. This season the Spartans, who return 16 starters, are led by the Polk brothers — Karmari, who plays slot, and Karmoni, who is a lineman on both sides of the ball. Wheeling, which has won four games over the previous three seasons, is looking to get where Oak Lawn is now. The Wildcats have five starters returning and will lean heavily on the play of RB/LB Evan Watanuki. Anthony Alvarado slides over from wide receiver to take on the quarterbacking duties. He should have WR/LB Bennett Rasar in his sights. Linemen Jadiel Lorenzo and Mark Zamora also return.
Barrington (10-2) at Lyons (8-3)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: A pair of playoff stalwarts are opening the season against each other. Barrington, which has made the playoffs in 11 of the last 12 seasons, advanced to the quarterfinals last year. The Broncos have 10 returning starters, leaning heavily on junior running back Lamar Osterhues, who rushed for 1,153 yards and 20 touchdowns last season. He will operate behind an offensive line that averages 267 pounds: seniors Jack Kavanagh, Malcom George, Andrew Haley and Finn Edstrom and sophomores Francisco Garcia and Jack Van Black. Central Michigan commit Kane Switski, who plays defensive end, leads the defense. Lyons, which has qualified for the playoffs in 20 of the last 21 years, lost to Fremd in the second round in 2025. Running back EJ Kuhlman, wide receiver Tyler Stamm and tight end Owen Matela, who is committed to Miami of Ohio, lead the Lions.
St. Ignatius (2-7) vs. St. Viator (1-8) at Forest View
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year: St. Ignatius 44, St. Viator 3
Outlook: St. Viator will be looking to turn things around after a tough season a year ago. The Lions could take a huge step in their opener. South Elgin transfer Danny Traver takes over at quarterback for Viator and will have solid targets in sophomore Dylan Molina and junior Jax Baker. Seniors Connor McGrath and Anthony Woodard and sophomore Seamus Rustay will be the keys at running back. St. Ignatius, who has missed the playoffs the last two seasons, is led by safety Connor Hites, a Penn commit.
Palatine (6-5) vs. Kenwood (9-2) at Lane Tech Stadium
When: Saturday, noon
Outlook: New head coach Chad Bobbit is looking to get the Pirates off to a fast start. But with Kenwood, one of the top Chicago public schools, Palatine could be in for a battle. The Pirates will be led by Northern Illinois commit Jayden Evans, a wide receiver and defensive back who is one of 11 returning starters. The Pirates will also feature junior edge rusher Eliaz Egbe, who has five Division I offers. Casey Miller, Gus Tashima, Makaio Halbert and Anthony Kurey will also be keys defensively. Brandon Martino, who played at times last season, will be leading the offense at quarterback. Evans could be matched up with Kenwood wide receiver Lawrence Carr, who has 27 touchdowns the last two seasons. The 5-11, 170-pound Carr has 18 Division I offers including Kentucky and Arizona. The Broncos also have 6-2, 300-pound defensive tackle Ronald Moore, who has seven D-I offers, including Illinois. Linebacker Aaron Smith is also getting Division I interest. The Broncos advanced to the second round of the 7A playoffs last year before losing to Lincoln-Way West.
Hoopeston (1-8) at Montini (14-0)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: Led by senior quarterback Izzy Abrams (Miami recruit), the Broncos put their 24-game unbeaten streak on the line against a Hoopeston team that has not enjoyed a winning season since 1993. Montini, which has captured back-to-back state titles (3A and 4A), faces one of the state’s more interesting nicknames — the Cornjerkers.
St. Francis (11-3) at New Palestine, Ind. (14-0)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: St. Francis, the defending Class 5A state champion, faces a perennial powerhouse in New Palestine, which has won five state titles since 2014, including last year’s IHSAA 5A championship. Junior quarterback, an East St. Louis transfer, takes over for the Spartans, who return feature tailback Tivias Caldwell. This will be the first out-of-state opponent in the 59-year history of the Dragons’ program. “They are the defending 5A state champions in Illinois and will be an incredible test for our team,” said New Palestine coach Kyle Ralph.
Benet Academy (3-6) at Lena-Winslow (13-1)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Benet Academy has a new head coach in three-time Super Bowl champion running back James White, and will have a new home field in mid-September. The Redwings will face a stern test from defending Class 1A state champion Lena-Winslow. The Panthers, who haven’t lost more than two games in a season since 2016, also captured 1A state titles in 2022, 2021, and 2019, while finishing second in 2024 and 2023. They return senior tailback Ryder Schulz and junior linebacker Merrik Mahon.
Nazareth (11-2) at IC Catholic Prep (8-4)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last year: Nazareth 24, IC Catholic Prep 21.
Outlook: The Knights begin their season with what could be another classic against a stacked Nazareth team looking for its fourth state title in five seasons. IC Catholic Prep features junior two-way standout Grant Bowen, who has received 35 Division I offers, senior quarterback Nate Lang, and junior wide receiver/defensive back Will Schmidt. The Knights’ offense will be tested by a talented Roadrunners defense that includes the Sakalas twins — Henry, a Michigan State commit at safety, and Hank, a Southwest Minnesota State commit at linebacker. Nazareth’s offense will be led by junior Wisconsin transfer JJ Chapman, who currently holds nine offers from Power Four schools.
Glenbard North (8-4) at Brookfield East, Wis. (8-3)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: The Panthers travel to Wisconsin for their season opener against a Brookfield East squad that reached the playoffs last season and return juniors Lucas Yttre (QB), Sean Neylon (RB), and Ethan Gardner (DB/PK). First-year head coach Justin Kerwin guides a Glenbard North squad that features two-way standout Angelo Gatses (RB/DB) and Zach Hvorcik (LB/FB).
Lake Park (3-6) at Plainfield North (2-7)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Senior quarterback Tay’Sean Smith leads the Lancers into their season opener against a Plainfield North program looking to avenge three consecutive losing campaigns. Smith took over at quarterback late last season, guiding the team to a 41-35 victory over St. Charles East in Week 7. Lake Park’s offensive line features junior Charlie Booker, who has an offer from Kansas State. Plainfield North counters with junior quarterbacks Collin Nickel and Jake Ross.
Metea Valley (2-7) at St. Charles East (1-8)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: The Mustangs return senior quarterback-turned-wide receiver Charlie Larson, who also plays linebacker, free safety, and punter. Junior St. Francis transfer Iggy Amorrortu prepares to start at quarterback for Metea, which has not reached the playoffs since 2014. St. Charles East returns 13 starters from last season, including junior quarterback Cruz Herrera, junior lineman Liam Barrett, who has six Division 1 offers, senior receiver Tyler Bradley, and senior tailback John Solano. The Saints are looking to win their first season opener since 2022.
Wheaton North (3-6) at Washington (10-2)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Early-season injuries proved costly for the Falcons last season, but did offer additional playing time for others, including quarterback Burke Neibch, who passed for 1,022 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior in 2025. Wheaton North also returns 6-4, 210-pound tight end Adam Schilling, and offensive lineman Kevin Petruczenko, a St. Thomas commit. Washington has qualified for the state playoffs 18 consecutive seasons.
Naperville Central (2-7) at Wheaton Warrenville South (7-4)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: These two teams meet for the first time since 2017 when they were both members of the DuPage Valley Conference. Coming off a 2-7 campaign, the Redhawks return 13 starters from last season, including their leading rusher, Landon Nelson, and leading receiver Mark Williams. Junior cornerback Eron Kennedy was the team’s defensive MVP as a sophomore. Despite graduating 16 starters, the Tigers feature a strong junior class that includes quarterback AJ Rogers to go with seniors Jacob Bellows, Clark Jensen, and Eric Hecker.
Waubonsie Valley (2-7) at Hinsdale Central (7-4)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: Returning all-conference players AJ Forst, Bradyn Hostetler, and Josiah Griffin provide promise for a Waubonsie Valley team looking to get off to a fast start in 2026. Junior tight end/defensive lineman Kyler Payne has a Colorado State offer, while junior offensive lineman Kajus Muralis has multiple Division I offers. Hinsdale Central, which earned its first postseason berth since 2021 last year, features two-way standout Tommie Riordan, an Iowa commit, senior defensive back Owen Sunderson (63 tackles in 2025), and senior defensive lineman John Breton (28 tackles, 3 sacks in 2025).
Naperville North (6-4) at New Trier (5-5)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: New Trier 20, Naperville North 14
Outlook: Returning offensive starters Dante Colasante (QB), Jack Zitko (WR), and Aiden Trasatt (TE) lead the Huskies against a talented Trevians defense that includes captains Peter Cusick, Alex Fairchild, Rick Miller, and Declan O’Meara. Offensively, New Trier features 6-5 senior quarterback Jackie Ryder, a Purdue commit who threw 17 touchdown passes last season. The Huskies’ defense returns 10 of 11 starters but must replace graduated all-state lineman Gabe Hill, now at Indiana.
Neuqua Valley (3-6) at Oswego (11-3)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Led by returning offensive lineman Max Schueneman, a Lindenwood commit, and senior quarterback Drake Mennecke, the Wildcats face a big nonconference test from defending Class 8A state runner-up Oswego. The Panthers return several players from last year’s 11-win squad, including quarterback Drew Kleinhans and Cam Loughmani. Oswego also welcomes junior quarterback Roy Magana, Jr., a transfer from Marmion.
Glenbard East (9-2) at Willowbrook (5-5)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last year: Glenbard East 28, Willowbrook 21
Outlook: The two-time Upstate Eight East champion Rams open their season against neighborhood rival Willowbrook. Running back/safety Montii Perry leads the Rams’ offense, supported by returning offensive linemen Evan Reichert, Jason Breitenstein, and Logan Palmeri. Sophomore Carter Pohlman is expected to take over at quarterback for the Rams. Willowbrook, which has made the playoffs in nine of the past 10 seasons, returns senior receivers JJ Miulli, Josiah Marlowe, and junior lineman Liam Pagan, who has seven Division I offers. Among Warriors coach Nick Hildreth’s biggest concerns is replacing graduated two-year starting quarterback Jahonise Reed.
Addison Trail (8-2) at West Chicago (5-5)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: On paper, these two teams appear as mirror images. While securing its third straight playoff berth last season, Addison Trail also captured its first outright WSC Gold title since 2014. Junior Robert Morales will get the nod at quarterback after the graduation of veteran Nico Dill. West Chicago also earned its third consecutive postseason appearance last season for the first time in school history. However, the Wildcats lost 25 seniors to graduation, including quarterback Carter Naranjo, the Upstate Eight Conference East Player of the Year in 2025. Senior Lucas Wheat is expected to take over behind center, flanked by tailbacks Derek Murphy and Ian Lemus.
Bremen (1-8) at Glenbard South (6-4)
When: Friday 6:30 p.m.
Outlook: The Raiders return three-year starting quarterback Tommy Bauman, who passed for 1,106 yards and 12 touchdowns as a junior last season, junior tailback Elijah Donahue, who ran for 1,321 yards and 20 touchdowns, and junior receiver Anthony Baldauf, who caught 25 passes for 357 yards. Bremen, which owns a 1-17 mark since reaching the playoffs in 2023, returns senior quarterback Kaeden Pettis and senior free safety Ryan Kennedy.
West Aurora (7-3) at Downers Grove South (5-5)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Senior Tyler Fecht, who established himself on the baseball team last spring, is expected to start at quarterback for the Blackhawks, supported by senior tailback Bryce Riley, who accounted for 819 total yards and 12 touchdowns out of the backfield last season. Senior kicker/punter Derek Szczeblewski, who converted 47 of 48 extra-point tries a year ago, provides consistent special teams play for West Aurora. Downers Grove South, which has made the playoffs six straight seasons, returns junior quarterback James Sobkowiak, seniors Forrest Bates and Sean West, and junior Nathan Thurston. Defensively, the Mustangs are led by seniors Vincent Junkas and Danny Klaeren.
Morgan Park (6-4) at Downers Grove North (10-3)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: Following the graduation departure of all-state quarterback Owen Lansu, now at Minnesota, the Mustangs turn to senior Kevin Jay as their signal-caller. Jay rushed for more than 700 yards and 15 touchdowns as a tailback last season. He will be supported by junior running back Grant Georgas, who ran for 400 yards and five touchdowns a year ago, and tight end/defensive end Jacob Vroman. Morgan Park returns junior quarterback Ronald Smith and senior free safety Darrell Marttison, who had five interceptions last season.
Glenbrook South (8-3) at York (6-4)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Last year: Glenbrook South 35, York 28 (OT)
Outlook: The Dukes return defensive lineman Owen Roberts, a Purdue commit, while senior quarterback Zack Assad takes over after replacing injured starter Dom Alfano for the final three games a year ago. Assad has a pair of capable targets in receivers Chris Winton and Anthony Massel. Glenbrook South returns several players from last year’s eight-win squad, including tailback Jonas Wang.
Glenbard West (9-2) at Lockport (9-4)
When: Friday 6:15 p.m.
Outlook: The Hilltoppers look to reload this season following last year’s 9-2 finish. They return senior quarterback AJ Rayford, who coach Chad Hetlet calls “the best quarterback the program has had in 20 years,” and Northwestern commits Brady Johnson (tight end) and Josiah Wallace (tackle). Lockport, coming off a Class 8A state semifinal appearance a year ago, features 6-4 senior quarterback Griffin Russell.
Aurora Central Catholic (8-3) at Lisle (competed at JV level in 2025)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: Aidan Crisci, who accounted for 444 all-purpose yards last season, converts to quarterback this season for the Chargers, who secured their first playoff berth in 2025 since 2016. The defense features senior end Joey Arch, who had 53 tackles a year ago, and senior defensive back Kyle Stanislo, who collected 33 tackles last season. Lisle returns to a varsity schedule after posting a 7-2 mark at the JV level in 2025.
Wheaton Academy (4-5) at East Moline United (5-5)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: First-year head coach Justin Swider takes the Warriors on a road trip to East Moline to face a Panthers squad that reached the Class 7A playoffs last season. Wheaton Academy returns two-way standout Logan Oros, a Western Illinois commit. East Moline United features senior tailback Leo Sim and 6-2, 230-pound junior tight end/linebacker/kicker Bear Boynton.
Chicago Noble Street (1-6) at Westmont (1-5)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Outlook: This will be a battle between two teams that participated with an abbreviated schedule due to small numbers last season. Westmont looks to improve upon last year’s 1-5 mark in its home opener.
South Elgin (7-3) at Orlando-Oak Ridge, Fla. (4-6)
When: Thursday 7 p.m.
Outlook: The Storm return to Florida for the first time since 2017 to face an Oak Ridge squad that finished 4-6 a year ago. South Elgin features senior quarterback Carter McDonald, who threw for 1,038 yards and 14 touchdowns last season, and senior linebacker Patrick Belk, who collected 72 tackles for the defending Upstate Eight West champions in 2025. “I’ve always wanted to replicate and provide our players with an experience similar to what they might see at the college level,” said Storm coach Pat Pistorio. “We treat this as a business trip first, but we also want our players to experience something bigger than football.” Oak Ridge returns a strong junior class that includes quarterback Antonio Fields, running back Joshua Northern, and receiver Da’ron Newton Caster.
Racine Lutheran, Wis. (7-4) at Marmion (4-5)
When: Friday 6:30 p.m.
Outlook: Marmion begins its quest of returning to the playoffs against out-of-state foe Racine Lutheran, which won seven games a year ago and returns senior quarterback Cohen Kraus, senior receiver/defensive back Bryce Austin, and senior lineman Hunter Domino. Skilled players Henry Miller, Colin McEniry, and Ryan Loria are back for the Cadets, while Andrew Saltijeral, Will Kolkman, and Ford Koralis head a list of sophomore newcomers.
Aurora Christian (8-3) at Ottawa Marquette (6-4)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Aurora Christian 43, Ottawa Marquette 22.
Outlook: Eagles coach David Beebe likes the upside his young team possesses, as they try to find a way to replace graduated quarterback Asa Johnson, now at Northern Illinois. The return of skilled players Jalen Callaway, Jordan McGee, and Carson Moreno should provide a boost. Callaway scored a pair of touchdowns in last year’s victory over Ottawa Marquette.
Minooka (6-4) at St. Charles North (10-2)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: St. Charles North 36, Minooka 35.
Outlook: The North Stars open their season with a rematch of last year’s classic 36-35 road victory over Minooka. Senior tailback Tommy Vendl is expected to carry the bulk of the rushing load for the North Stars, while senior receiver Christopher Akpede returns following a solid junior campaign. St. Charles North went 4-0 in games decided by three points or less in 2025. Last season, six of Minooka’s 10 games were decided by seven points or less — the Indians went 4-2 in those games.
Jacobs (7-4, 6-3) at Cary-Grove (9-3, 7-2)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Cary-Grove 44, Jacobs 29.
Outlook: The opening of the Fox Valley Conference season comes in Week 1, and a pair of 2025 playoff teams collide in this one. An inexperienced Cary-Grove squad welcomes the return of junior quarterback Jackson Berndt and sophomore running backs Leo Zavala and Ty Tenopir. Jacobs counters with two-way standout Jack Coates and junior quarterback Austin Stennett.
Burlington Central (10-2, 8-1) at Dundee-Crown (3-6, 3-6)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Burlington Central 42, Dundee-Crown 6.
Outlook: The Rockets return several defensive standouts from last year’s 10-win squad, including linemen Tobi Oduwa, Logan Gibson and Andrew Peterson, and linebackers Liam Schultz and Ben Hultgren, while younger players form a rebuilt offensive line. All-FVC quarterback Isaac Grzynkowicz returns to lead the Chargers’ offense.
Prairie Ridge (10-1, 9-0) at Crystal Lake South (1-8, 1-8)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Prairie Ridge 54, Crystal Lake South 26.
Outlook: The Gators open their season against defending FVC champion Prairie Ridge, which has made 12 consecutive postseason appearances. Third-year starting quarterback Michael Silvius and senior linebacker Ethan Phillips, the team’s second leading tackler last season, headline the list of CLS returnees. Wingback Jesse Kautz, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 1 a year ago, is back for the Wolves.
Hampshire (3-6, 3-6) at Huntley (5-5, 5-4)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Huntley 42, Hampshire 27.
Outlook: Hampshire kicks off its season with a new coach in Braden Foster and several familiar faces, including two-way lineman Roman La Salvia, wide receiver/defensive back Cael Moore, and junior quarterback Griffin Chamberlain. Huntley’s strong junior class features tailback Chase Hojnacki, who rushed for 1,100 yards and scored 21 touchdowns a year ago, and quarterback Malik Carter, who threw for 1,950 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2025.
Rock Island (2-7) at Kaneland (8-3)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Kaneland 44, Rock Island 7.
Outlook: The Knights return a bevy of three-year starters, led by linebacker/running back Jackson Little, a Minnesota-Duluth commit, and offensive/defensive lineman Jackson Valentini. The Rocks, who have posted a 10-26 mark the past four seasons, return senior running back/linebacker Cameron Foley.
Elmwood Park (0-9) at Streamwood (3-6)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: Streamwood 62, Elmwood Park 20.
Outlook: With the expansion of the state playoffs in 2026, the Sabres are optimistic of reaching the postseason for the first time since 2011 thanks in part to the return of senior quarterback Aden Sanchez and two-way standouts Justin Brown and Joey Scianna. Kofi Hughes takes over as head coach at Elmwood Park, which has lost 18 straight games dating back to October of 2023.
Woodstock North (6-4) at Elgin (5-5)
When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Outlook: Securing their first postseason berth since 2019 last season, the Maroons look to improve with the return of senior quarterback Jacob Rufino. Offensively, backs Anthony Foster, La’Marin Powell, and Ja’Miere Moore headline the list of major contributors from a year ago. The Thunder must find a way to replace David Randecker, the school’s career rushing leader now at Illinois Wesleyan.
Walther Christian (3-6) at St. Edward (1-8)
When: Friday 7 p.m.
Last year: St. Edward 16, Walther Christian 13.
Outlook: Former St. Viator coach Dave Archibald takes over at St. Edward, attempting to build a new culture and a stronger future. The Green Wave return several two-way players, including seniors Connor Englum, Anthony Leadley, Brendan Horrell, Gavin Brunner, and Grant Whitworth. Walther Christian returns sophomores Le’Ron Cheney, Titus Johnson, Meekyel Sams, and senior Steven Rodriguez from a three-win team last season.
Fremd (11-2) at Lake Zurich (9-3)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Fremd 35, Lake Zurich 3
Outlook: Lake Zurich, ranked No. 4 in the Illinois Media preseason Class 6A poll, hits the field under new coach Dragan Teonic against a Fremd squad that made the state semifinals a year ago. “Clearly, Fremd is experienced and we’re not, so we need to handle the emotions of well,” Teonic said. Teonic said junior DB-WR Aiden Gehrke is being asked to play multiple roles and positions and has worked hard to be ready for Week 1, while senior DB-RB Charlie Grund has been a vocal leader and tone setter. This is the first of five home games in the first six weeks for Lake Zurich. This is the 17th time the schools are meeting in the season opener. Fremd has won the last two, but Lake Zurich holds a 10-6 advantage in the series. Fremd fell just outside the Illinois Media preseason Top 10 in Class 8A (11th).
Carmel Catholic (8-3) at Hersey (9-3)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: This game features a pair of teams that had multiple-game runs in the state playoffs a year ago with defending Mid-Suburban East kingpin Hersey making it to the Class 7A quarterfinals. This is the first meeting between the teams. “We are excited for the challenge,” Hersey coach Tom Nelson said. “We need to execute at a high level, manage the ebbs and flows of the game and Week 1. Every school in the state will learn a great deal about their team Week 1.” Nelson cited strong fall camp efforts from the likes of Jake Nawrot, Ben Zebron, Josh Rigs, Nick Jelaca, Jackson Travis, Jaxon Saint Paul and Dom Wentink. Hersey is ranked No. 4 in the Illinois Media Class 7A preseason Top 10 poll, while Carmel is at No. 5 in the Class 6A poll.
Loyola Academy (4-5) at Warren Township (9-2)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; O’Plain Campus, Gurnee
Outlook: The Blue Devils are wasting little time, getting right into the thick of it with this season-opener against a historically strong Loyola squad that went 4-5 a year ago. “They are a traditional power that was down from their normal standards last season, but were also very young,” Warren coach Bryan McNulty said. “They have several Division I kids on both sides of the ball, which is nothing new for them.” McNulty said senior linebacker Braylon McMillon has come along well lately, understanding the Warren defense “and seems to always be in the right place at the right time,” he said. Warren senior wideout Mikey Bunch is newer to football, “but has shown flashes all summer,” McNulty added. Warren is ranked No. 9 in the preseason Illinois Media Class 8A state rankings. “This is as young a team as we have had in a while, but we have great players who people will know throughout the season,” McNulty said. “This team is very connected and loves football.”
Libertyville (5-5) at Geneva (4-5)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: Geneva brings in a high-powered offense led by QB Ben Peterson, an Eastern Michigan commit who accounted for 24 total touchdowns last year, and wide receiver Bennett Konkey, who had 41 receptions and 9 touchdowns, then won the 100 and 200 at the Class 3A state track meet, then committed to Illinois in football. “Our team will need to be highly disciplined in our assignments and remain focused on preventing bad plays defensively,” said Libertyville coach Tim Budge. The Wildcats’ Charlie Paden has looked great at receiver and as a leader, according to Budge, while Colten Siebert has excelled in practice on offense and defense and Texas recruit Brock Williams also has received high marks for his elite leadership and dedication. Libertyville appeared in the “others receiving votes” category in the Illinois Media preseason Class 6A Top 10 poll while Geneva was seventh.
Prospect (7-3) at Stevenson (6-4)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Prospect 28, Stevenson 18
Outlook: “Prospect is a great program with some high-level returners,” Stevenson coach Brent Becker said. “We are excited about the progress we have made this offseason.” Prospect coach Dan DeBoeuf anticipates a big, physical and well-coached Stevenson team. “Week 1 is usually about who can play the cleanest and protect the ball,” he said. DeBoeuf said junior defensive lineman Manny Syvestre had a great summer and fall camp and is a guy “that will make a bunch of plays for us,” he said. Senior running back Mathew Donnelly also impressed in the offseason and has an offer from Ivy Leaguer Yale. “I am expecting a big season out of him,” De Boeuf said. The Knights follow Stevenson with St. Laurence, Naperville Central and Fremd. “We are looking forward to a very challenging schedule,” DeBoeuf said.
Grant Community (6-4) at Mundelein (2-7)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Grant 42, Mundelein 13
Outlook: Senior middle linebacker Wyatt Cornell, a three-year starter, has caught Grant coach Tim Norwood’s eye of late. “His experience is really showing,” he said. “He has also been a great leader for our younger guys.” Mundelein coach Johnny Cowhey pointed out this is the sixth year in a row playing Grant. “We know they are a very tough and disciplined team,” he said. “We know they graduated some very spectacular players but have some key returners. The last five years, the team with the fewer turnovers has won the game.” Cowhey said S-RB Dylan Leipold has been excellent in practice and is expected to make an impact on both sides, while Reyes Zepeda was named a captain as a junior and “is doing a fantastic job as a leader of the offensive line (which has no seniors on it).”
Schaumburg (3-6) at Antioch (8-3)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Antioch 34, Schaumburg 29
Outlook: This is the fourth meeting in a row between these teams with Antioch leading the series 2-1. “We know we are in for a battle facing an 8A program,” Antioch coach Brian Glashagel said. “We saw the scrimmage and they are tough.” Glashagel said senior running back Gavin Stone and senior defensive back Alex Herstowski are two guys that are “a 100-percent effort every day on every play,” he said. Saxons coach Mark Stilling said John Hilton has a great motor and plays with intensity with every snap, while Christian Montes is a team player “filling whatever role we ask of him,” he said. Stilling said Antioch is talented, disciplined and very well-coached. “We need to by physical on every snap and play with a high level of discipline,” he said.
Tinley Park (1-8) at Grayslake Central (4-5)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: Brent Pitt makes his Central head coaching debut at home. The Rams square off with south-suburban Tinley Park out of the South Suburban Conference Blue Division. Tinley Park has an enrollment of just under 1,000 students. Pitt said Tinley Park has a new head coach and a defensive coordinator coming from Maine East. “Our focus is on what we can control,” he said. “Our goal is to be ready for whoever lines up across from us.” Pitt said Kenye Pendleton and Ray Ray Wright have had outstanding offseasons, as has the Central offensive line.
Larkin (0-9) at Round Lake (1-8)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Outlook: “I think Larkin is in a similar situation as our team and to find success we just have to outexecute them,” Round Lake coach Randi Dey said. Dey noted Devin Powell has been a consistent leader who always finds ways to make plays. “He always must be accounted for when he lines up at wide receiver,” Dey said. Dey added Dashaun Jackson has stood out in camp for his ability to make plays on the defensive line and at fullback.Larkin coach Jomari Villaluz said returning junior Stevon McGill has impressed as one of the leaders of the team and has earned the right to be one of our captains. “Although we are in the process of rebuilding our program, our coaching staff is proud of the brotherhood our program has formed,” Villaluz said.
Hinsdale South (2-7) at Wauconda (9-1)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Wauconda 44, Hinsdale South 26
Outlook: Attention Bulldogs fans, if you like not traveling to away games, this is your year. Wauconda has six home games compared to three a year ago. Coach Chris Prostka pointed out Wauconda, which won the Northern Lake County title last year, has more than 100 players in the program for a fifth year in a row (or 14% of the school is in the football program). Prostka lauded the efforts of Cashton Stilton. “Cashton is playing his best football right now and we look forward to a big senior year for him,” he said. Prostka said his team will be ready for a South team that returns a lot of linemen on both sides and has a new quarterback who gained experience last season.
Lakes (6-4) at Glenbrook North (2-7)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Glenbrook North 21, Lakes 13
Outlook: Lakes heads to Northbrook to face a Spartans team that competes in the Central Suburban Central Division. The CSL is broken into three divisions this year with Glenbrook North in with Deerfield, Highland Park and Niles West. “Glenbrook North will be big up front and is well coached,” Lakes coach Jason Ellerman said. “They run the ball well, which sets up an explosive passing game. When it comes to Week 1, the team that is more fundamentally sound will win.” Ellerman said quarterback Ethan Gialo has stepped up as a leader of the offense and will also play corner on defense. Senior DB-RB AJ Perna is a three-year starter in the secondary and “is the guy in charge of getting us lined up on defense,” Ellerman pointed out. “He has a tremendous football IQ.”
Grayslake North (1-8) at Vernon Hills (5-5)
When: Friday, 7 p.m.
Last year: Vernon Hills 17, Grayslake North 0
Outlook: Colton Jewell makes his Vernon Hills head coaching debut at home. “Vernon Hills is a great matchup for us,” North coach Brian Johnson said. “It’s going to be tough to defend their multiple screen game and then when they go under center and run the triple. Ultimately, we need to focus on ourselves and limit mistakes.” Johnson said Beckett Dovel has matured over the past season. “Being the only senior starting on offense, he has become the senior leadership that you always look for,” Johnson said. Johnson added he’s happy with the progress the Knights’ offensive line has made. “They have done a really good job with communication and identifying fronts. They are starting to play as a cohesive unit.”