Daily Herald Week 8 high school football previews
Rolling Meadows (2-5, 1-2) at Hersey (7-0, 3-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Buffalo Grove 21, Rolling Meadows 0; Hersey 71, Elk Grove 0
Last year: Hersey 54, Rolling Meadows 14
Outlook: Rolling Meadows has lost four of its last five games while seeking that third win to get them secured into the playoffs. Meadows will look to control the ball with running back Luke Harvey to keep Hersey’s offense off the field. The Huskies average 48 points per game. After a week off due to the Wheeling forfeit, Jake Nawrot was 19 of 24 for 322 yards and six touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Huskies’ defense has allowed just 10 points per game.
Prospect (7-0, 3-0) at Buffalo Grove (5-2, 2-1)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Prospect 50, Wheeling 0; Buffalo Grove 21, Rolling Meadows 0
Last year: Prospect 56, Buffalo Grove 7
Outlook: Both teams showed their defenses are strong with matching shutouts last week. Prospect broke the 50-point mark for the third consecutive game. Its defense has also been superb, allowing only 10 points per game. Buffalo Grove will lean on its ground game with Matthew Kaput. Last week the senior broke the 100-yard rushing mark for the sixth time this season. Nathan Raef has continued to throw well and is coming off a 148-yard performance. The Bison defense, led by Drew Carrison, David Graham, Jaleel Marshall and Kaput, held Elk Grove to eight yards rushing last week and 76 total yards.
Elk Grove (2-5, 0-3) at Wheeling (0-7, 0-3)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Hersey 71, Elk Grove 0; Prospect 50, Wheeling 0
Last year: Elk Grove 57, Wheeling 13
Outlook: Both teams are in need of a win. After beginning the season with two wins Elk Grove has now lost five straight. The Grenadiers are in search of that third victory which would seal a playoff spot. Erik Sandoval and <<<Luke?>>> will be looking to kickstart the offense after being shut out last week. Wheeling was happy to be back on a football field. Now the Wildcats will look to break their 13-game losing streak. Alexis Mendoza rushed for 48 yards last week.
Barrington (3-4, 3-0) at Fremd (5-2, 2-1)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Barrington 42, Conant 0; Hoffman Estates 7, Fremd 6
Last year: Barrington 23, Fremd 7
Outlook: After an 0-4 start, Barrington could win the MSL West with a victory over Fremd. Lamar Osterhues and Vince Costa have combined to get the offense back on track with each scoring five rushing touchdowns. Costa has also been a threat as a receiver with 205 yards and two touchdowns. Barrington has pitched consecutive shutouts and allowed just 21 points in its three wins. Fremd is looking to regroup after last week’s disappointment. The Vikings were victims of a big play by Hoffman Estates and a Vikings offense that could not get out of its own way at times.
Schaumburg (1-6, 0-3) at Conant (5-2, 1-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Palatine 62, Schaumburg 33; Barrington 42, Conant 0
Last year: Conant 43, Schaumburg 28
Outlook: After being blanked two weeks ago, Schaumburg rolled up its highest output of the season last week. The Saxons are looking to get another big night out of Vince Heydecker, who ran for 112 yards and two touchdowns. Ryland Davanon stepped in at quarterback and threw for 94 yards and a touchdown. Conant has lost its last two games. It’s no coincidence the Cougars have scored only six points in those two games. Conant will try to get its Wing T offense back on track against a Schaumburg defense that has allowed 39 points per game.
Hoffman Estates (4-3, 2-1) at Palatine (3-4, 1-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Palatine 62, Schaumburg 33; Hoffman Estates 7, Fremd 6
Last year: Palatine 35, Hoffman Estates 21
Outlook: Hoffman Estates is coming off a huge win last week over Fremd. Now the Hawks face Palatine, a team they have not beaten since 2018. Hoffman’s strong running game was stymied last week. But quarterback Shion Dailey stepped up to have his best game of the season, throwing for 220 yards and a touchdown. Palatine responded to a players-only meeting by scoring its most points in a game since the first round of the playoffs in 2012, when they scored 69 against Niles West. Brandon Martino threw for 212 yards and five touchdowns. Jayden Evans had 73 rushing yards and caught three passes for 61 yards while scoring twice. Chase Klipowicz ran for 85 yards and a score and caught a pass for a touchdown.
Maine West (1-6) at Niles West (0-7)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: New Trier 56, Maine West 7; Glenbrook North 41, Niles West 14
Last year: Niles West 20, Maine West 14
Outlook: With two weeks remaining in the season, there is still time for Maine West to qualify for the playoffs. But the Warriors need to start now against a Niles West team that has been outscored 275-54 this season. Maine West comes into this game averaging 21 points behind quarterback Ryan Cooper, running back Zaire Domino and wide receiver Davion Tate. The Warriors, who have allowed 35 points per game on defense, need to clean that up.
Maine East (0-7) at Glenbrook North (2-5)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Glenbrook South 55, Maine East 0; Glenbrook North 41, Niles West 14
Last year: Did not play
Outlook: The Demons still have lots of work to do on offense. They’ve scored just 20 points this season.
Evanston (5-2, 0-1) at Maine South (6-1, 1-0)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Evanston 28, Niles North 7; Maine South 49, Vernon Hills 8
Last year: Maine South 33, Evanston 0
Outlook: After playing four of their last five games as CSL crossovers, where Maine South outscored opponents 202-42, the Hawks close out with a pair of CSL South games. Maine South got Jameson Purcell a little extra time last week and the Indiana commit delivered with 11-of-16 passing for 207 yards and four touchdowns while running for another. Syracuse commit Matthew Schlenhardt, along with Evan Adamczewski, Bo Brania, Nick McCarthy and Hugh Stewart, will play full-time again on defense, where they were not challenged in those crossovers.
Downers Grove South (5-2, 4-0) at Leyden (3-4, 2-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Downers Grove South 24, Hinsdale South 21; Leyden 40, Morton 6
Last year: Downers Grove South 42, Leyden 10
Outlook: Leyden clinched its first playoff berth since 2016 and its ninth in school history. Sonny Falco continues to play well at quarterback. Last week he threw for 113 yards and a touchdown while running for 53 yards and another score. The Leyden rushing attack is also moving along nicely with Juan Vega running for 87 yards and a touchdown and Nehemiah Almodovar also running for a score. Downers Grove South took a huge step in claiming the West Suburban Gold title last week. The Mustangs are getting strong quarterback play from James Sobkowiak, who threw a pair of touchdown passes and ran for another. Forest Bates caught both touchdown passes while Peyton Dickenscheidt had a key interception.
St. Viator (1-6) vs. Fenwick (4-3) at Triton College
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: St. Francis 52, St. Viator 0; Brother Rice 42, Fenwick 21
Last year: Did not play
Outlook: Viator plays its second defending state champion in as many weeks as the Lions travel to River Grove. After picking up a win and playing well on both sides the ball in Week 6 against Marian Catholic, the Lions took a step back last week against St. Francis.
Lake Zurich (5-2, 5-0) at Libertyville (5-2, 5-0)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Lake Zurich 17, Lake Forest 3; Libertyville 21, Mundelein 0
Last year: Lake Zurich 27, Libertyville 9
Outlook: Our Lake County Blue Plate Special of the Week. The winner of this game takes sole possession of first place in the North Suburban Conference with one game to play. After losing its first two games, Lake Zurich has won five in a row, allowing a grand total of 33 points. Three of those wins came by scores of 17-14, 15-9 and 17-3, so the Bears are battle-tested in close games. Libertyville is a mirror image, losing its first two and winning five since. The Wildcats have given up six points in the last three weeks and have shut out their last two opponents. “I have been really impressed all year with our mentality,” Libertyville coach Tim Budge said. “Our players have been great about our theme of great effort and execution. I continue to be impressed with our leadership when we face any adversity.” Jacob Syc has led the Cats’ defense and as of late had five tackles (two for loss) and 1.5 sacks. “Amazing effort,” Budge said of Syc. Budge also has been pleased with the play of safety Reid Williams and Lukas Melton. “Reid gets us in the right coverage calls,” Budge said. “Lukas is like another coach on the field.” Budge said Brock Williams continues to be a great contributor in all phases of the game, while Colten Siebert continues to excel on the offensive and defensive lines.
Waukegan (0-7, 0-5) at Warren Township (3-4, 3-2)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Stevenson 31, Warren 27; Zion 48, Waukegan 7
Last year: Warren 51, Waukegan 0
Outlook: Warren looks to get back on track after a close North Suburban loss to Stevenson. “We had a tough week last week against an underrated Stevenson team,” Warren coach Bryan McNulty said. McNulty added he’s also been impressed with the Blue Devils’ offensive balance during regular situations. McNulty said senior offensive lineman Jayden Murguia “is generally the heart and soul of our team,” he said. McNulty added sophomore linebacker Levi Jacques has been quietly getting better each week. “Levi is smart, tough and reliable,” he said. “He’s a great character kid.”
Lake Forest (1-6, 1-4) at Stevenson (2-5, 2-3)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Lake Zurich 17, Lake Forest 3; Stevenson 31, Warren 27
Last year: Stevenson 24, Lake Forest 7
Outlook: Stevenson posted a huge win last week against Warren and now faces, in terms of playoff implications, another key game with two weeks to play in the regular season. Quarterback Eli Sigal (252 yards, three touchdowns) and the trio of Brandon Hersh (seven catches, 86 yards, two TDs), Tyler Becker (two catches, 47 yards, one TD) and Luke Clark (seven catches, 99 yards) had big days against Warren. Sigal has passed for 993 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, while Hersh has 37 catches for 486 yards and six touchdowns. Mlakhai Agee (three rushing touchdowns on offense) leads the Patriots defense with 64 tackles, while Brody Delevitt has 50 tackles. Connor Kenning has four sacks and three quarterback hurries, while Becker has two interceptions and four pass breakups.
Chicago De La Salle (0-7) at Carmel Catholic (2-5)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Marist 12, Carmel 7; Montini 56, De La Salle 7
Outlook: A must-win for Carmel here in terms of playoff aspirations. “Guys are continuing to buy in at getting better each week after what has proven to be a tough conference schedule,” Carmel defensive coordinator Billy Moore said. “Some sophomores have made the most of the playing time on varsity.” Moore said sophomore wideout Keegan Pehler and senior linebacker and captain Michael Zitella are a pair of unsung heroes. Kyron Hart has 33 catches for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. Jaquel Edmonds and Jorden Moore have combined to score 10 rushing touchdowns and together average just over five yards a carry. Reed Dangel has passed for 1,427 yards and 10 touchdowns, while Jameer Miles leads the defense with 63 tackles (two forced fumbles, four tackles for loss).
Antioch (7-0, 5-0) at North Chicago (1-6, 0-5)
When: 7 p.m. Friday,
Last week: Antioch 48, Grayslake North 7; Lakes 35, North Chicago (1-6, 0-5)
Last year: Antioch 62, North Chicago 12
Outlook: Antioch moved up to No. 6 in the Illinois Media Class 5A state poll through six weeks. While the Sequoits have scored no less than 30 points in any game this season, coach Brian Glashagel points to the team’s plus-15 turnover ratio as a difference-maker. “That’s huge heading into the end of the regular season and the playoffs,” he said. Running back Gavin Stone has 1,067 yards on the ground and 23 touchdowns. He’s averaging 10.2 yards per carry and 152.4 rushing yards per game. Alex Herstowski is leading he team in tackles (53) and interceptions (four). Glashagel said junior Austen Schine (15 carries, 164 yards, three TDs, 10.9 yards per carry) and sophomore Alan Sakalowski (15 carries, 247 yards, three TDs, 16.5 yards per carry) split time holding down one of the running back slots until junior Kelen Wilson returned. “They were the Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum of our team and their stat line proves it,” Glashagel said.
Grant (5-2, 4-1) at Wauconda (7-0, 5-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Grant 35, Round Lake 6; Wauconda 63, Grayslake Central 20
Last year: Wauconda 43, Grant 39
Outlook: A big game in the NLCC. Grant looks to get to six wins and stay in the conference race, while Wauconda, ranked sixth in the state in Class 6A by Illinois Media through six weeks, looks to keep at least a share of the top spot. Wauconda coach Chris Prostka said Nick Puga is doing an excellent job in practice as the team’s scout team running back, along with being a strong special teams player. ““He had his first 100-yard game last week and gets better each week,” Prostka said. Cornerback Hayden Wolf also was lauded for strong play, leading the team in tackles last week. Wauconda quarterback Cooper Karaszewski has thrown for 913 yards and nine touchdowns. Brody Rudolph has 664 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, as well as 40 tackles on defense. Brian Hart has run for 615 yards and 10 touchdowns, and has 30 tackles. Luke Sickmeir is up to 709 receiving yards (eight touchdowns) and has eight interceptions. Cashton Silton has 55 tackles (two for loss), one interception and one force fumble. Wauconda averages 455 yards of total offense per game and has 21 takeaways on defense through seven games.
Grayslake Central (4-3, 3-2) at Grayslake North (4-3, 2-3)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Wauconda 63, Grayslake Central 20; Antioch 48, Grayslake North 7
Last year: Central 28, North 6
Outlook: The annual crosstown rivalry game sees a pair of teams trying to improve their playoff lot and both looking to get back into the win column after facing the conference’s top two teams last week. “There is a lot of excitement around the community for this one,” Central coach Brent Pitt said. Pitt said on offense Ray Ray Wright and Ken-Ye Pendleton Jr. have given the Rams a strong rushing attack, “but their success starts up front with our offensive line,” he said. North coach Brian Johnson has been happy with his team’s resiliency. “Being hit by the injury bug, and having a few things not go our way, ordinary teams would not respond to those things,” he said. Jaylen Newkirk has thrown for 1,109 yards and 14 touchdowns while running for 321 yards and six touchdowns. Jay Kelly has 526 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while Alex Romero has caught 24 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns. Beckett Dovel leads the North defense with 76 tackles. Johnson added Angel Rosales continues to perform on defense and special teams. Johnson said Tavin Ordonez has stepped up as a utilitarian defensive player at linebacker or cornerback based on the situation. “Tavin’s football smarts have been on display,” Johnson noted.
Round Lake (2-5, 0-5) at Lakes (2-5, 1-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Grant 35, Round Lake 6; Lakes 35, North Chicago 16
Last year: Lakes 49, Round Lake 0
Outlook: Lakes snapped a four-game losing streak with a win over North Chicago and still could secure a playoff berth. “Our attention to detail is getting better and we have had better focus at practice,” Lakes coach Jason Ellerman said. Ellerman added the Eagles’ offense has done well controlling the clock and winning the time of possession battle. Senior quarterback Ethan Gialo has a team-best six rushing touchdowns, while senior linebacker Robbie Siebert leads with 56 tackles and is the Lakes career leader with eight fumble recoveries. Ellerman added senior lineman Jayce Figueroa and junior linebacker Shane Krause “have done a great job playing ironman football for us.”
Marmion (3-4) at Montini (5-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: St. Laurence 28, Marmion 21; Montini 49, De La Salle 6
Last year: Montini 47, Marmion 0
Outlook: Marmion could use a stronger start against the state-ranked Broncos. Last week, the Cadets dug themselves a 21-0 hole before staging a second-half comeback that fell short. Quarterback Colin McEniry tossed a pair of touchdown passes last week, including a 70-yarder to Ryan Loria, while adding a short-yardage rushing score. Aidan Miller leads the Cadets’ ground game and is a threat catching passes out of the backfield. After several down-to-the-wire finishes, the Broncos finally enjoyed some breathing room last week against De La Salle. For the season, senior quarterback Izzy Abrams has completed 108 of 175 passes for 2,042 yards and 22 touchdowns without an interception, while scoring nine rushing touchdowns. Damacio Ortegon (31 catches, 725 yards, 10 touchdowns) and Donovan Evans (19 catches, 511 yards, five touchdowns) are his favorite targets. Defensively, the Broncos are led by Ben Evenson (team-high 68 tackles), Johnny Louise (62 tackles, interception), and Orlando Greco (62 tackles).
Niles Notre Dame (4-3) at St. Francis (3-4)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Niles Notre Dame 43, DePaul College Prep 21; St. Francis 52, St. Viator 0
Outlook: The Spartans bring a two-game winning streak into this one following last week’s shutout* of St. Viator. Junior quarterback Jadon Wilson completed 14 of 22 passes for 218 yards and four touchdowns — three to junior receiver Alijah Valeri, who caught four passes for 119 yards. Freshman running back Noah Wasielewski rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. Defensively, Hunter Eberle provided a team-high 10 tackles, while Tavian Talton and Donovan Humphrey each had interceptions. The Dons feature senior quarterback Eric Couper (.732 completion percentage), senior receiver Peter Panagiotopoulos (112 yards per game, four touchdowns), and junior tailback Christopher Love (153-yard average, four touchdowns).
Loyola Academy (7-0) at IC Catholic Prep (7-0)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Loyola Academy 38, St. Ignatius 7; IC Catholic Prep 42, Benet Academy 14
Outlook: This battle of unbeatens features the state’s top-ranked Class 8A Ramblers (Illinois Media Poll) against the state’s top-ranked 3A Knights. Loyola, which captured three straight 8A state titles from 2022-2024 before finishing 4-5 a year ago, features a high-scoring offense with quarterback Matthew Lee and running back Carmelo Maldonado, and a stingy defense that yields 10 points per game and has recorded two shutouts this season. Jaden Penna caught four passes for 97 yards and a pair of touchdowns with an interception on the defensive side of the ball for the Knights last week. Senior quarterback Nate Lang, junior multi-purpose threat Grant Bowen, and sophomore tailback Jakobe Baldwin highlight the Knights’ high-octane offense. With the postseason fast approaching, this game will serve as a barometer of sorts for the Knights going up against one of the state’s top programs.
Benet Academy (2-5) at St. Rita (4-3)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: IC Catholic Prep 42, Benet Academy 14; St. Rita 42, Leo 20
Outlook: The Redwings need to win one of their last two games to become playoff eligible, but it will not be easy against a St. Rita squad that owns victories over Montini and Glenbard West. Quarterback Alex Mitchell passed for 184 yards and a pair of touchdowns during Benet’s loss to IC Catholic Prep. Receiver Giovanni Sanderlin topped the 100-yard mark last week. St. Rita features senior quarterback John Fennell, tailback Brandon Johnson, Jr. (10 touchdowns), and senior receiver Vinny Stubitsch (55-yard average).
Aurora Christian (6-1, 4-1) at Wheaton Academy (6-1, 4-1)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Aurora Christian 40, Chicago Christian 18; Bishop McNamara 34, Wheaton Academy 28
Last year: Aurora Christian 28, Wheaton Academy 27
Outlook: The Eagles take their two-game winning streak to West Chicago to face Wheaton Academy in a battle for second place in the Chicagoland Christian Conference. Junior Jalen Callaway is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, whether that be at running back, receiver, or as a kick/punt returner on special teams. Sophomore quarterback Juju Vasquez tossed a pair of touchdown passes to Callaway while adding a rushing score against Chicago Christian. Sophomore Luke Baumann recorded a pick-six and rushed for a score last week. Wheaton Academy looks to rebound from last week’s tough loss to conference leading Bishop McNamara behind quarterback Colton Miller, tailback Ethan Brooks, and two-way threat Logan Oros.
St. Charles North (3-4, 1-4) at Glenbard North (3-4, 1-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: WW South 35, St. Charles North 7; Geneva 62, Glenbard North 35
Last year: St. Charles North 31, Glenbard North 20
Outlook: It has been a topsy-turvy season for both squads after the teams combined for 18 victories a year ago. The North Stars feature a youthful squad with 12 sophomores, including quarterback Dash Von Qualen, who has been utilized as a rotational piece along with senior Landon Conroy. Senior tailback Tommy Vendl leads the North Stars’ ground game, while Aiden Bradley anchors the defense. Facing a rugged DuKane schedule, the North Stars have allowed an average of 40 points over their last five games. The Panthers allowed 62 points and seven touchdown passes to Geneva (quarterback Ben Peterson) last week, spoiling an impressive offensive display from senior tailback Angelo Gatses, who rushed for 289 yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries. Junior quarterback Logan Kramer accounted for 205 yards of offense against Geneva with a touchdown pass and touchdown run.
Lake Park (2-5, 1-4) at Wheaton Warrenville South (5-2, 4-1)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Lake Park 35, St. Charles East 21; WW South 35, St. Charles North 7
Last year: WW South 35, Lake Park 14
Outlook: Senior quarterback Tay Smith did it all last week, throwing for 230 yards and two touchdowns, rushing for 110 yards and a pair of touchdowns, and averaging 40 yards per punt. Senior linebacker Carter Magnus sealed the Lancers’ first DuKane Conference win with a late pick-six. Junior receiver TJ Ogunribido caught 11 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns, as the Lancers snapped a four-game skid. Lake Park needs to win one of its last two games to become playoff eligible. WW South continued its solid play with a thorough road win over St. Charles North last week. Junior quarterback AJ Rogers, who added a 24-yard touchdown run, finished 15 of 17 for 212 yards and three touchdowns — all to wideout Steven Harvey, while junior tailback Malaki Thomas (eight carries, 80 yards) ran for a 47-yard touchdown.
Wheaton North (5-2, 3-2) at Geneva (6-1, 5-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Batavia 28, Wheaton North 21; Geneva 62, Glenbard North 35
Last year: Wheaton North 21, Geneva 20
Outlook: The Falcons showed plenty of grit last week, rallying from a 14-0 deficit to state-ranked Batavia with three unanswered touchdowns to grab a 21-14 lead only to come up short at the finish. A pair of red-zone misfires proved costly, as the Falcons dropped their second straight game despite a 197-yard, three-touchdown performance from sophomore quarterback Grant Neibch. Now, they continue their schedule gauntlet traveling to face a state-ranked Geneva squad coming off a season-high 62-point effort behind senior quarterback Ben Peterson’s career-high seven touchdown passes. The Vikings found the end zone on their first nine possessions against Glenbard North. All four of Illinois-bound receiver Bennett Konkey’s catches went for touchdowns last week, while Luke Ignoffo added 110 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Senior tailback Nelson Wendell finished with 139 total yards of offense and three scores. Geneva, looking for its first-ever sole DuKane Conference title, averages 43 points per contest.
Waubonsie Valley (3-4, 2-2) at Naperville Central (3-4, 2-1)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Waubonsie Valley 17, Metea Valley 7; Cardinal Ritter College Prep 28, Naperville Central 13
Outlook: Led by tailback John Hung, the Warriors became playoff eligible for the second time since 2018 with last week’s hard-fought win. Hung, who gained 121 of his game-high 157 yards in the second half, put the game out of reach with a seven-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Junior quarterback Nolan Alberson accounted for 172 yards of total offense for Waubonsie. The Redhawks saw their two-game winning streak come to end during last week’s nonconference trip to St. Louis. Quarterback Simon Hayes connected with Kyle Clark for a touchdown, while middle linebacker Jaxon Pytlak provided a defensive highlight with his hustle forced fumble.
Naperville North (6-1, 4-0) at Neuqua Valley (3-4, 2-1)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Naperville North 42, DeKalb 14; Normal Community 46, Neuqua Valley 13
Last year: Naperville North 29, Neuqua Valley 23
Outlook: The Huskies extended their winning streak to six with last week’s 28-point home triumph. Quarterback Dante Colasante passed for 114 yards and three touchdowns, while sophomore back Vic Tyson ran for 102 yards, highlighted by an 80-yard touchdown. Receiver Jack Zitko caught five passes for 81 yards and two touchdowns. Defensive leader John Lyons returned a fumble 34 yards for a late score against DeKalb. Last week, the Wildcats ran head-on into an unbeaten Normal Community High squad that cruised to a 46-6 second-half lead. Quarterback Ben Travis tossed a 40-yard touchdown pass to Lucas Balgro, while Conor McCarty added a late 46-yard touchdown run. Will Kalish, who recorded an interception against the Ironmen, anchors Neuqua’s defense.
Metea Valley (2-5, 1-3) at DeKalb (1-6, 0-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Waubonsie Valley 17, Metea Valley 7; Naperville North 42, DeKalb 14
Outlook: Since earning their first-ever win over Neuqua Valley, the Mustangs have suffered three consecutive losses, including last week’s hard-fought decision. Junior quarterback Iggy Ammorrortu, who scored on a 54-yard touchdown run against Waubonsie Valley, has thrown for 1,154 yards and added 323 rushing yards this season. Senior receiver Charlie Larson leads the team with 669 receiving yards. Metea Valley’s defense, fueled by leading tackler Tito Ajibola (51 tackles) and strong safety Khamari Rodgers (two interceptions), has five interceptions in seven games. The Barbs, led by senior quarterback Lebron Carrington, are looking to snap a five-game losing streak. Both teams are clinging to playoff hopes. With a win, Metea will become playoff eligible for the first time since 2014. DeKalb needs victories over Metea and Rochelle to reach the three-win mark.
Streator (1-6, 0-5) at Lisle (3-4, 1-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Wilmington 49, Streator 6; Manteno 48, Lisle 16
Outlook: An opportunity for the Lions to climb back to the .500 mark with one regular-season game remaining. Lisle’s run-oriented offense features five players with at least 200 yards — JT Tumbarelli (427 yards, seven touchdowns), Collins Miles (392 yards), quarterback Nathan Garcia (338 yards, 10 touchdowns), Jacob Aalrust (283 yards), and Payton Swartzendruber (205 yards). Streator, led by quarterback Sam Lerette, received a special teams touchdown on Makiel Green’s blocked punt last week. The Bulldogs have scored just 67 points in seven games.
Elmwood Park (1-6, 0-4) at Fenton (3-4, 1-3)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Glenbard South 41, Elmwood Park 0; Fenton 28, Ridgewood 18
Last year: Fenton 55, Elmwood Park 6
Outlook: The Bison have enjoyed a program boost in Mark Farrell’s second stint as head coach. After finishing 2-25 from 2021-2023, Fenton has recorded 12 victories over the past three seasons. Farrell, who guided Fenton to postseason berths in 2006 and 2009, led the squad to the playoffs in 2024. Fenton became playoff eligible following last week’s victory, as senior tailback Angel Duran tallied three touchdowns, while quarterback Luke Loncar tossed a 56-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Medrano. Elmwood Park, which has scored six points over the past eight quarters, has allowed 200 points the last four weeks.
Glenbard East (5-2, 5-0) at Riverside-Brookfield (6-1, 5-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Glenbard East 41, West Chicago 8; R-B 28, Bartlett 26
Last year: Glenbard East 45, R-B 43
Outlook: Two-time defending Upstate Eight East champion Glenbard East will clinch a share of the conference title with a road victory over R-B. The Rams’ defense, led by Asheco Triplett, Jr. and Austin Siebert, hasn’t allowed more than 14 points in any conference game. Now, they face an R-B squad that averages 47 points in conference play. Last week, Triplett recorded a game-high 14 tackles with two for losses, while Siebert added 10 tackles and returned a fumble 10 yards for a touchdown against West Chicago. Senior Isaiah Robinson added three tackles for losses, while Matthew Greenfield had an interception. Offensively, sophomore quarterback Carter Pohlman continues to improve, evidenced by his 130 yards and two touchdowns last week. Malachi Miller, who caught four passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns against West Chicago, and two-way standout Montii Perry anchor the Rams’ attack. The Bulldogs escaped a scare from Bartlett last week, rallying from a 20-14 third-quarter deficit behind senior quarterback Braeden Novak’s 140 passing yards with two touchdowns and 112 rushing yards and a score.
West Chicago (2-5, 1-3) at Ridgewood (1-6, 0-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Glenbard East 41, West Chicago 8; Fenton 28, Ridgewood 18
Last year: West Chicago 66, Ridgewood 20
Outlook: The Wildcats need another win to become playoff eligible for a school-record fourth consecutive season. Quarterback Lucas Wheat leads the offense, flanked by Iann Lemus (team-high nine touchdowns) and tailback Bobby Elizondo (100-yard average, five touchdowns). Linebackers Geoffrey Fleming and Isaiah Sylvester combined for 13 tackles against Glenbard East, while junior free safety Donovan Hamilton recorded two tackles for losses. Turnovers (four fumbles last week) continue to hurt the Wildcats. Ridgewood relies on quarterback Angelo Vitale and tailback Frank Horak.
Glenbard South (5-2) at West Aurora (4-3)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Glenbard South 41, Elmwood Park 0; South Elgin 29, West Aurora 27
Outlook: The Raiders’ defense recorded its first shutout of the season last week, forcing a pair of turnovers in the process. Offensively, quarterback Tommy Bauman threw five touchdown passes, including a pair to wideout Anthony Baldauf covering 21 and 47 yards against Elmwood Park. Both teams have electric tailbacks — junior Elijah Donahue for Glenbard South and Bryce Riley for West Aurora. South Elgin’s defense keyed on Riley, holding him to a season-low 32 yards on 12 carries last week. Junior Michael Williams picked up the slack, gaining 91 yards on 13 carries with a touchdown. Junior receiver Richard Bell caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Tyler Fecht and threw one to him on an 11-yard trick play in the heart-breaking loss to South Elgin. Junior defensive back Carlos Rivera collected 11 tackles, while outside linebacker Darius Stewart had three sacks last week. Both squads finish regular-season play with tough Week 9 foes — Glenbard South vs. R-B (6-1), and West Aurora at East Aurora (4-3).
Oak Park-River Forest (3-4) at Addison Trail (5-2, 3-2)
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Lyons Township 34, Oak Park-River Forest 10; Addison Trail 48, Proviso East 0
Last year: Addison Trail 23, Oak Park-River Forest 20
Outlook: Junior tailback Ayden Smith continues to be a major contributor to the Blazers’ offense. He followed up his four-touchdown effort against Leyden with three more touchdowns last week covering 11, 21, and 34 yards. Junior Michael Clementi added touchdown runs of 34 and 40 yards, respectively, while Jaden Romeus (13 touchdowns) returned a kick for a score. The playoff-bound Blazers have topped the 40-yard mark in six of their seven games. Oak Park-River Forest, featuring quarterback Liam Brown and athlete Norlan Davis, knocked off York 24-21 three weeks ago.
Hinsdale South (3-4, 3-1) at Morton (1-6, 1-3)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Downers Grove South 24, Hinsdale South 21; Leyden 40, Morton 6
Last year: Hinsdale South 35, Morton 14
Outlook: How will the Hornets respond following last week’s tough loss to Downers Grove South that all but decided the West Suburban Gold? Trailing 24-6, quarterback Benjamin Miller tossed touchdown passes to Brady Miller and Koby Armstrong to pull the Hornets within one score in the fourth quarter. Armstrong caught a pair of scoring passes last week. Morton, amid its second three-game losing streak of the season, managed just one touchdown last week from quarterback Kevonte Smith to Matthew Wheeler.
Proviso East (1-6, 0-5) at Willowbrook (4-3, 2-2)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Addison Trail 48, Proviso East 0; Willowbrook 42, Proviso West 6
Last year: Willowbrook 49, Proviso East 14
Outlook: The playoff-bound Warriors look for their third straight victory behind a defensive interior that includes tackles Brian Dell, Jr., and 6-foot-4, 300-pound junior Liam Pagan. Quarterbacks Nathan Jerkovic and Jax Dyers have shared time the past few weeks, while Jax Chavez headlines the running game. Proviso East, which has dropped five straight, has scored just 72 points in seven contests.
Lyons Township (6-1, 3-1) at Downers Grove North (6-1, 4-1)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Lyons Township 34, Oak Park-River Forest 10; York 18, Downers Grove North 17, OT
Last year: Lyons Township 24, Downers Grove North 20
Outlook: Downers Grove North’s six-game winning streak ended following last week’s overtime loss at York. The Trojans’ defense has allowed seven touchdowns in seven games — with one coming in the extra session against York — and has recorded three shutouts. Running back Grant Georgas, quarterbacks Kevin Jay, Joe Goodwin, and receiver Rayjon Johnson lead the offense. Lyons counters with tailbacks EJ Kuhlman, Jack Williams, tight end Owen Matela, and sophomore quarterback Quinn Carroll. Carroll replaced injured senior starter Brendan McCabe two weeks ago. Junior linebacker Charlie Lesner recorded three second-quarter interceptions last week. With a win, Downers Grove North will clinch a share of the WSC Silver title. Lyons needs victories over Downers Grove North and York to earn a conference title share.
Proviso West (1-6, 0-4) at Hinsdale Central (4-3, 1-3)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Willowbrook 42, Proviso West 6; Glenbard West 42, Hinsdale Central 24
Last year: Hinsdale Central 65, Proviso West 0
Outlook: Hinsdale Central may be out of the West Suburban Silver title hunt, but it is in control of securing the highest possible postseason seed. With regular-season victories over Proviso West and Oak Park-River Forest, the Red Devils would post a 6-3 record and likely host a first-round playoff game. Junior quarterback Beau Gatewood has thrown 15 touchdown passes in seven games, supported by a solid trio of receivers in Beau Knapp (five touchdowns), James Skokna (five touchdowns), and George Zilliox (two touchdowns). Last week, Knapp caught a pass in the flat, broke to the outside and raced 63 yards for a touchdown that gave the Red Devils a brief 7-0 lead over Glenbard West. The Red Devils’ two-game winning streak ended last week. The Panthers’ offense has been stuck in neutral, having scored just 30 points during their six-game skid.
York (4-3, 2-2) at Glenbard West (5-2, 3-1)
When: 1 p.m. Saturday
Last week: York 18, Downers Grove North 17, OT; Glenbard West 42, Hinsdale Central 24
Last year: York 21, Glenbard West 20
Outlook: There’s little time to celebrate in the rugged West Suburban Silver. Last week, the Dukes capped their overtime comeback with quarterback Zack Assaad’s two-point pass to Anthony Massel moments after tailback Chris Georgas’ second touchdown of the game. Now, they face a high-flying Glenbard West offense fresh from a 42-point performance against Hinsdale Central. “Our kids are tough, we’re resilient,” Dukes coach Don Gelsomino said following their win over previously unbeaten Downers Grove North. Hilltoppers quarterback AJ Rayford threw three touchdown passes — two to Keyante Johnson — and ran for another last week. Northwestern-bound tight end/defensive end Brady Johnson and tailback Ace Harris, who has scored six touchdowns the last two games, highlight a balanced attack. Glenbard West clinches a share of the WSC Silver with regular-season victories over York and Proviso West.
Marian Central Catholic (2-5, 1-4) at St. Edward (2-5, 1-4)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Last week: Marian Central Catholic 34, Christ the King 0; Hope Academy 41, St. Edward 6
Last year: Marian Central Catholic 44, St. Edward 8
Outlook: Freshman quarterback Matthew Archibald threw the first touchdown pass of his varsity career, a 16-yard flip to Harper Welsh in the fourth quarter for the Green Wave last week. Senior receiver Parker Petruczenko averages 40 yards per contest. St. Edward needs a win to become playoff eligible — no small feat for a program that won just one game from 2023-2025. Marian Central Catholic also looks to become playoff eligible following last week’s shutout. Junior quarterback Colin Hernon leads the Hurricanes’ offense, flanked by tailback Mike Schmid and receiver Max Kinney.
Batavia (5-2, 4-1) at St. Charles East (3-4, 1-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Batavia 28, Wheaton North 21; Lake Park 35, St. Charles East 21
Last year: Batavia 31, St. Charles East 13
Outlook: Senior quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren continued his superb season, passing for 247 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 102 yards and a touchdown against Wheaton North. For the season, Vander Luitgaren has thrown for 2,048 yards and 24 touchdowns along with 504 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Last week, the Bulldogs’ defense managed a late goal line stand, fueled by a sack from two-way player Thomas Prescott. Tailback Charlie Rosengren added 89 yards and a pair of touchdowns. St. Charles East tries to snap a three-game skid behind junior quarterback Cruz Herrera and running backs Johnny Solano and Rowan Slovick. Last week, the Saints let a 21-20 lead slip away in the final three minutes against Lake Park.
Jacobs (6-1, 6-1) at Dundee-Crown (3-4, 3-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Jacobs 41, Crystal Lake Central 6; Cary-Grove 55, Dundee-Crown 24
Last year: Jacobs 53, Dundee-Crown 18
Outlook: Jacobs rebounded from a tough loss to FVC leader Huntley with an impressive all-around performance against Crystal Lake Central behind junior quarterback Austin Stennett’s two touchdown passes. Nick Meyer added a pair of rushing scores for the Golden Eagles. Dundee-Crown looks to recover from last week’s 32-point loss to Cary-Grove. Tailback Tristan Gatenby and quarterback Isaac Grzynkowicz lead the Chargers’ offense.
Burlington Central (5-2, 5-2) at Huntley (7-0, 7-0)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Burlington Central 27, McHenry 6; Huntley 41, Prairie Ridge 6
Last year: Burlington Central 20, Huntley 7
Outlook: The Rockets’ defense has been downright stingy the last three weeks, limiting Prairie Ridge, Hampshire, and McHenry to just 12 points. Junior quarterback Reece Beemer tossed a pair of touchdown passes against McHenry, while tailback Parker Auxier led the ground game with a 51-yard touchdown run as the Rockets pocketed their third straight victory. To extend it to four, they will need a herculean effort to slow down a Huntley offense that averages 49 points per game and has topped the 50-point mark three times. Junior quarterback Malik Carter, who tossed four touchdown passes against Prairie Ridge, has thrown 18 touchdown passes this season. Tailback Chase Hojnacki has rushed for 800-plus yards and 17 touchdowns in seven games. This will be a good late-season test for a pair of playoff-bound squads.
Cary-Grove (5-2, 5-2) at Crystal Lake South (2-5, 2-5)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Cary-Grove 55, Dundee-Crown 24; Hampshire 27, Crystal Lake South 7
Last year: Cary-Grove 56, Crystal Lake South 13
Outlook: Since dropping a 42-35 decision to unbeaten Huntley three weeks ago, the Trojans have recorded back-to-back victories, outscoring their opponents, 101-37. Cary-Grove’s balanced attack features backs Ty Tenopir and Leo Zavala, who tallied a pair of touchdowns against Dundee-Crown. Crystal Lake South, led by quarterback Michael Silvius and junior receiver Yeidan Ramirez, needs a win against either Cary-Grove or Jacobs to become playoff eligible.
Hampshire (4-3, 4-3) at McHenry (3-4, 3-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Hampshire 27, Crystal Lake South 7; Burlington Central 27, McHenry 6
Last year: Hampshire 19, McHenry 17
Outlook: Quarterback Griffin Chamberlain tossed a 25-yard touchdown pass to Tyler Lacke and added a four-yard touchdown run for the Whip-Purs last week. Lacke also scored on a 60-yard run as Hampshire posted its fourth win in five games. McHenry suffered its third loss in four games last week. The Warriors are paced by tailback Mick Reidy (55-yard average), junior receiver Robert Davis (six touchdowns), senior quarterback Jayden Linderman (seven touchdown passes), and senior linebacker Lucas Decker (team-high nine tackles per contest).
Kaneland (6-1, 3-1) at Ottawa (2-5, 0-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Kaneland 56, LaSalle-Peru 7; Rochelle 39, Ottawa 13
Last year: Kaneland 56, Ottawa 7
Outlook: The Knights’ offense, led by quarterback Brody Guthrie and backs Colton Ludwig and Tommy Boryc, has averaged 42 points over the last three games. Receivers Cooper Stombres, who had touchdown catches covering 18, 25, and 90 yards last week, and Nolan Claeson support the cause. Ottawa looks to snap a four-game losing streak. Senior tailback Jacoby Gooden (64-yard average) and senior receiver Dane Carretto (62-yard average) are the Pirates’ players to watch.
South Elgin (6-1, 5-0) at Elgin (4-3, 3-1)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: South Elgin 29, West Aurora 27; Elgin 52, East Aurora 28
Last year: South Elgin 64, Elgin 21
Outlook: South Elgin took a big step toward its second consecutive Upstate Eight West championship with last week’s nail-biting victory decided on kicker Danny Moscaso’s first-ever field goal from 32 yards out with four seconds remaining. Quarterbacks Carter McDonald and Oliver Johnston each tossed touchdown passes, while junior receiver Semaj Collier caught nine passes for 100 yards and a touchdown. Lamari Smith added 158 yards on the ground with a touchdown against West Aurora, as the Storm earned its fifth straight win. Elgin comes in on a positive note of its own after senior tailback Anthony Foster ran for five touchdowns in its win over East Aurora. Quarterback Jacob Rufino tossed touchdown passes to Dan Beckett (26 yards) and La’Miere Moore (29 yards), as the Maroons recorded a season-high point total.
Larkin (0-7, 0-4) at Bartlett (0-7, 0-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Streamwood 40, Larkin 24; R-B 28, Bartlett 26
Last year: Bartlett 62, Larkin 12
Outlook: A week after allowing a go-ahead touchdown pass with 2:11 remaining during their four-point loss to East Aurora, the Hawks suffered a tough two-point setback at the hands of Upstate Eight East co-leader Riverside-Brookfield after missing a potential game-tying two-point conversion run with 4:22 left. Sophomore quarterback Parker Mulhall tossed three touchdown passes against R-B, while adding a one-yard keeper for a score. Larkin opened its new homefield on campus with a loss to Streamwood despite recording a season-high 24 points. Quarterback Brian Watson, Jr. threw a pair of touchdown passes against Streamwood, while Ivan Anderson added a 20-yard touchdown run. The youthful squads would love to snap season-long losing streaks while looking ahead to 2027.
East Aurora (4-3, 2-2) at Streamwood (3-4, 1-3)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Elgin 52, East Aurora 28; Streamwood 40, Larkin 24
Last year: Streamwood 27, East Aurora 7
Outlook: Tomcats junior quarterback Manny Martinez threw a pair of touchdown passes covering 57 and 48 yards to senior wideout Daivon Douglas while subbing for senior signal-caller Joseph Becker last week. Douglas added a 68-yard kick return for a touchdown, while Jeremiah Jackson had a two-yard touchdown run. Streamwood became playoff eligible for the first time in 15 years behind a four-touchdown performance from senior tailback Justin Brown. Quarterback Aden Sanchez added a pair of touchdown runs as the Sabres reached a season-high point total against Larkin.
Aurora Central Catholic (2-5) at Burlington Catholic Central, Wi. (2-4)
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Last week: Aurora Central Catholic 28, Westmont 0; St. Francis (Wi.) 56, Burlington Catholic Central 16
Last year: Aurora Central Catholic 41, Burlington Catholic Central 0
Outlook: Winners of two of their last three games, the Chargers suddenly have their thoughts on reaching the playoffs following a 0-4 start. Aidan Crisci scored a pair of touchdowns, highlighted by his 79-yard run, last week, while quarterback Griffin Curry continues to become more comfortable running the offense since taking over the starting job during the midseason. The Hilltoppers have been outscored by a staggering 151-28 margin the past three weeks.