This week marks an exciting culmination for eight high school football teams eager to vie for the state championship titles. The highly anticipated games are set for Wednesday at Northern Illinois University’s Huskie Stadium, providing both fans and players with a more accessible venue than the traditional Saturday night slots.
The games begin with Class 7A, featuring St. Rita (9-4) squaring off against Brother Rice (12-1) at 3 p.m. The Crusaders are passionate about capturing the state title, having not won since 1981. They had previously defeated St. Rita 28-10 earlier this season, but the Mustangs, now on a seven-game winning streak, are looking to capitalize on their improved form. Quarterback Steven Armbruster’s return from injury will be crucial for St. Rita’s chances, while Brother Rice boasts a formidable team, including Army recruit CJ Gray, who has contributed significantly in both passing and rushing.
Following at 6 p.m., Class 8A will see Mount Carmel (13-0) take on Oswego (11-2). While Mount Carmel is heavily favored, Oswego’s coach Brian Cooney remains hopeful, emphasizing their commitment to a robust run game led by sophomore Ammar Banire. Mount Carmel, known for their explosive offense, aims to maintain their dominance, led by a talented ensemble of players including quarterback Emmett Dowling, who has amassed over 3,500 passing yards this season.
On the other end of the spectrum, Tuesday’s action will feature Class 6A with Fenwick (10-3) against East St. Louis (10-3) at 6 p.m. East St. Louis, often touted as one of the strongest teams, has faced stiff competition, making their record a bit misleading. With standout players like Myson Johnson-Cook, they are favored to showcase their skills against the Friars. Fenwick’s impressive run in the playoffs has been underlined by their victory over Nazareth and a roster with deep ties, creating a strong team chemistry that could play a pivotal role.
Lastly, the Class 5A matchup on Tuesday at 3 p.m. will feature St. Francis (10-3) against Providence (10-3). Having previously bested Providence earlier this season, St. Francis enters with confidence, bolstered by standout performances from their defense and a proficient offense led by quarterback Brock Phillip.
As these teams prepare to battle for supremacy, there is a palpable excitement in the air. Each game presents an opportunity for not only glory but also an unforgettable experience for the athletes and their supporters. With unpredictable outcomes and compelling narratives, these championship games are sure to captivate audiences and etch memorable moments into the annals of high school sports in Illinois.