High School: Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook QB Bailey picks Illinois
Bolingbrook junior quarterback Aaron Bailey committed to Illinois on Thursday, according to his high school coach.
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.com Bolingbrook quarterback Aaron Bailey is a threat with both his arms and legs. Bailey, who is 6-2 and 216 pounds, is ranked the No. 37 athlete in the Class of 2013 and the 11th best recruit in Illinois by ESPN Recruiting.
Bailey was recruited by a number of other schools an athlete and not a quarterback.
“He wanted a chance to play quarterback,” Bolingbrook coach John Ivlow said. “That’s something Illinois saw him as. Other people projected him as a wide receiver, defensive back, this and that.
“People who think he’s can’t play quarterback don’t know him. They don’t know anything. They can ask anyone we play against. We run the ball 85 percent of the time. Trust me, he can throw it.”
Bailey was 58-of-131 passing for 1,039 yards, seven interceptions and 10 touchdowns last season. He also rushed for 1,983 yards and 30 touchdowns on 257 carries.
Bailey, who was an ESPNChicago.com all-area selection, led Bolingbrook to the 2011 Class 8A state championship. He threw 140 yards and rushed for 149 yards and two touchdowns in the state title game.
The Illini now have five Class of 2013 commitments, including three from in-state.
Parker, Tuck named Illinois' top players
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.comJabari Parker became the first underclassman to win the state's Mr. Basketball award. Simeon junior Jabari Parker and Bolingbrook senior Morgan Tuck were named Illinois’ Mr. Basketball and Ms. Basketball on Saturday.
Parker became the first underclassman to win the award. He earned 74 first-place votes out of 93 ballots, according to the Chicago Tribune, which conducts the voting. He finished with 400 points.
Proviso East senior Keith Carter was second with 72 points, and North Chicago senior Aaron Simpson was third with 66 points.
Bolingbrook senior Morgan Tuck finished with 287 points and was followed by Niles West’s Jewell Loyd (159 points).
Since the Mr. Basketball award’s inception in 1981, there had been no previous underclassmen voted for the honor.
“That’s huge,” Simeon coach Robert Smith said. “It just shows how hard (Parker’s) been working as a player. People always ask about his stats. I think Jabari only averaged 13 shots a game. That’s not a lot of shots for the No. 1 player in the country.
“He wants to be when it’s all said and done that he was possibly the best ever to come out of Chicago, the state of Illinois. He doesn’t talk about accolades a lot, but I know that’s part of the goals he’d like to accomplish for himself.”
Parker averaged 19.5 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals this past season. He helped the Wolverines to their third consecutive Class 4A state title. He also was named Gatorade’s Illinois Player of the Year earlier in the week.
Other former Illinois Mr. Basketball winners from Simeon include Derrick Rose, Deon Thomas and Nick Anderson.
“It just shows how well our program has done and how well it’s been for awhile,” Smith said. “He’s just keeping it going.”
East Aurora’s Ryan Boatright, who is now at Connecticut, and Rock Island’s Chasson Randle, who is at Stanford, shared the award last year. There were 142 ballots cast last season.
Bolingbrook’s Ariel Massengale, who is now at Tennessee, won Ms. Basketball last season. Tucker finished second last season.
Bolingbrook's Tuck player of the year
Tuck, a 6-foot-2 forward, averaged 29 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.7 steals for the Raiders this season. She led Bolingbrook to a 27-2 record in her final season. She won three state championships during her career. She will play at Connecticut next season.
"She is the perfect example of what an athlete should be and inspire to be," Joliet Central coach Brian Reed said in a statement. "She is gracious in victory, and she brings out the best in her team and her opponents. Also, she brings the same intensity in the classroom. Who could ask for more?"
Bolingbrook's Ariel Massengale won the award last year. Massengale now plays at Tennessee.
Young tops Bolingbrook in 4OT thriller
HINSDALE, Ill. -- Layers of Whitney Young’s players, coaches, family members and students hugged, kissed, cried, shouted, jumped around and celebrated in every other kind of way on Hinsdale Central’s basketball floor on Monday night.
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.comJanee Thompson and Young ended Bolingbrook's reign in thrilling fashion. In the center of it all stood Whitney Young senior Janee Thompson. She was passed around from person to person like a freshly baked batch of cookies. Everyone wanted a piece of the person responsible for finally dethroning Bolingbrook.
In what will undoubtedly go down as one of the state’s greatest high school girls basketball games, No. 2 Whitney Young defeated No. 1 Bolingbrook 74-65 in four overtimes in the Class 4A Hinsdale Central super-sectional on Monday.
It was the first time Whitney Young knocked off Bolingbrook since 2008. The Raiders had ended Whitney Young’s season the past three years and gone on to win three consecutive state titles.
“It really feels good,” Thompson said when she finally got around to the media. “We wanted to do it for all our past players and ourselves. We’ve been working extremely hard, and I think this group deserves it the most.”
Bolingbrook (26-2) looked as if it might be the grim reaper to Whitney Young (32-0) for a fourth consecutive year in the early goings of Monday’s game. Behind McDonald’s All-American forward Morgan Tuck, the Raiders jumped on Whitney Young and led 18-9 after one quarter. Tuck had five points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal in the first quarter.
Thompson, also a McDonald’s All-American, wasn’t going out like that, though. With the Raiders ahead 22-10, Thompson took the game into her own hands. She went on a personal 11-3 run, scoring inside and out and pulled the Dolphins back into the contest. She capped off her memorable second quarter with back-to-back assists to trim Bolingbrook’s lead to 26-25.
“We never gave up,” Thompson said.
Thompson later appeared to deliver a possible dagger for Bolingbrook when she sank two free throws with 7.2 seconds remaining in regulation to give Whitney Young a 47-44 lead.
But this game wasn’t meant to end in four quarters.
Bolingbrook’s Keiera Ray got the inbounds’ pass, pushed the ball up court, pulled up from just beyond the 3-point line and her high-arcing shot fell through the net at the buzzer to send the game into its first overtime.
It was just the start.
In the second overtime, Bolingbrook went ahead 50-47, but Thompson answered with a 3-pointer. Thompson then put Whitney Young ahead 52-50 with two free throws, and Tuck forced another overtime with a bucket in the lane with 24.4 second left.
The third overtime included even more drama. Bolingbrook’s Kennedy Cattenhead put her team ahead 57-54 with a 3-pointer. On the following possession, Thompson fired back with a 3-pointer. Nia Moore then gave Bolingbrook a 63-60 lead with a layup with 37.6 seconds left.
Thompson tried to be hero again, but she missed one 3-pointer and then had another 3-pointer blocked. After the second miss, Whitney Young’s Alexis Lloyd found herself with the ball on the right wing. She drove hard to the basket and scored while being fouled with 5.1 seconds. After Bolingbrook tried to ice Harper with a timeout, she calmly sank the free throw to deliver the game into the decisive fourth overtime.
In the final overtime, Whitney Young finally prevailed. Tied at 65, Harper scored on a layup with 2:46 left. After a Bolingbrook turnover, Thompson made two more free throws. After another Raiders’ turnover, Thompson put the game out of reach with two more free-throw makes.
“Young hung in there and fought,” Bolingbrook coach Anthony Smith said. “We both fought. It was a heavyweight fight. Young came out with the win. We wish nothing but the best for them.”
Whitney Young coach Corry Irvin would later try to explain what it was like to be involved in such a game.
“It was just a lot of excitement,” Irvin said. “The way the intensity was on both ends of the court, I’m sure it was great to watch. It was just fun to coach in.”
Thompson finished with a game-high 34 points and was 13 of 14 from the free-throw line.
“I thought Janee was awesome,” Irvin said. “She did what she’s supposed to do. She’s an All-American. She’s supposed to carry her team in the end, and that’s what she did. That’s what we expected of her.”
Tuck finished with a team-high 16 points and 13 rebounds. Cattenhead (13 points), Moore (14 points, seven rebounds, eight blocks) and Ray (14 points) contributed for the Raiders.
Lloyd (10 points) and Harper (16 points, nine rebounds) also contributed for the Dolphins.
Previewing the boys hoops brackets
The Class 3A and 4A boys basketball playoffs begin on Monday. Here’s a glance at the top games and players to see this week.
Five regional semifinals to see
1. St. Charles East vs. St. Charles North at St. Charles North on Wednesday
2. Marist vs. Brother Rice at Marist on Tuesday
3. Stevenson vs. Prospect at Stevenson on Wednesday
4. Benet vs. Bolingbrook at Metea Valley on Wednesday
5. Neuqua Valley vs. Naperville Central at Neuqua Valley on Wednesday
Five potential regional championships to see on Friday
1. St. Rita vs. Whitney Young at Whitney Young
2. Bogan vs. De La Salle at Mount Carmel
3. Farragut vs. St. Joseph at Nazareth
4. Crane vs. Riverside-Brookfield at Riverside-Brookfield
5. Minooka vs. Bloom at Joliet Central
6. Crete-Monee vs. Joliet West at Thornton
7. West Aurora vs. Naperville North at Oswego
8. Harlan vs. Morgan Park at Rich Central
9. Evanston vs. Notre Dame at Notre Dame
10. Schaumburg vs. Glenbard West at Glenbard West
Ten to players to see in regional play (alphabetical order)
There will likely be plenty of time to see Simeon’s Jabari Parker and some of the other stars in the area, but these players and teams may or may not be around come next week.
1. David Cohn, junior, York: It hasn’t been a great year for high-scoring numbers, but Cohn has been one of the exceptions. He can drop 30-plus points on any night. He had 47 points just recently. York is a No. 4 seed in the Lake Park regional.
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.comWillie Conner and Crane could be a tough out in the Riverside-Brookfield regional. 2. Willie Conner, senior, Crane: Conner improved his game this season and made himself a mid-major college prospect. Crane has been up and down this season, but Conner has been consistent. Crane is a No. 5 seed in the Riverside-Brookfield regional.
3. Tony Hicks, senior, St. Rita: Hicks, a Penn recruit, has been as good as any senior in the state. He’s been averaging 25 points a game. St. Rita is a No. 4 seed in the Whitney Young regional.
4. Mike LaTulip, senior, Prospect: LaTulip is headed to Illinois next year as a preferred walk-on. He’s been one of the area’s top shooters and scorers this year. Prospect is a No. 9 seed in the Stevenson regional.
5. Jahlil Okafor, sophomore, Young: Okafor is the state’s top sophomore and among the nation’s top players in the Class of 2014. The state hasn’t seen a big man as skilled as Okafor since possibly Eddy Curry. Whitney Young is a No. 5 seed in the Whitney Young regional.
6. Sean O’Mara, sophomore, Benet: O’Mara, a 6-9 center, has emerged as one of the state’s top young prospects. He’s a skilled big man and is following in the footsteps of former Benet center Frank Kaminsky. Benet is a No. 6 seed in the Metea Valley regional.
7. Michael Orris, senior, Crete-Monee: Orris, a 6-3 point guard, is headed to Illinois next season. He’s expected to help backup Tracy Abrams there. Crete-Monee is a No. 4 seed in the Thornton regional.
8. Juwan Starks, senior, West Aurora: Starks is on the verge of West Aurora’s career-scoring record of 1,613 points, which is owned by Billy Taylor (1987-1991). Starks is 60 points shy of matching Taylor. West Aurora is a No. 4 seed in the Oswego regional.
9. Tyler Ulis, sophomore, Marian Catholic: Ulis, a 5-8 point guard, is a scoring machine. He put up 38 points in a loss to St. Viator last month. Marian Catholic is a No. 7 seed and could face Andrew in the Andrew regional championship.
10. Milik Yarbrough, sophomore, Zion-Benton: Yarbrough could eventually be one of the nation’s top players in the Class of 2014. He’s a multi-skilled 6-6 guard/forward. Zion-Benton is a No. 16 seed in the Zion-Benton regional.
Girls rankings: Bolingbrook stays at top
Read the entire top 20.
Bolingbrook still tops girls rankings
Read the full story.
Girls hoops rankings: Bolingbrook No. 1
Read the full rankings.
Girls rankings: Bolingbrook stay at No. 1
Read the full story.
Bolingbrook moves up in ESPN's rankings
The Raiders were the lone Illinois team in the final rankings. They were 13-1 this season and won the Class 8A state championship over Loyola.
Bolingbrook should be among the nation’s top teams again with star quarterback Aaron Bailey returning for his senior season.
Best of 2011 high school football
ESPNChicago.com’s high school football reporters hand out their “Best of 2011” awards.
BEST GAME
BEST INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.comJoliet Catholic's Ty Isaac had 515 rushing yards and six touchdowns against Montini on Saturday.BEST OVERALL PLAYER
Scott Powers/ESPNChicago.com Montini's Jordan Westerkamp might go down as the best receiver in state history.FAVORITE PLAYER TO WATCH
Scott Powers for ESPN.comDowners Grove South's Josh Williams scored 36 touchdowns this season.MOST MEMORABLE PLAY
Bolingbrook finishes atop prep rankings
Complete rankings.
Bailey, D power Bolingbrook into title game
NAPERVILLE, Ill. -- Last Friday night, Naperville Central students came dressed in suits as the Redhawks took care of business to reach the 8A semifinals. Saturday, Hawks fans wore Santa caps hoping to reap an early present in the form of a state championship appearence.
Aaron Bailey and the Bolingbrook Raiders had some early holiday plans of their own, edging out Naperville Central 22-19 in a come-from-behind win.
The Redhawks took charge first with a 9-yard touchdown run by their quarterback Ian Lewandowski after eight minutes.
Central held Bailey to 26 yards running and one completion in the first half, sacking him twice.
But Bailey and his offense found a way to grind forward. On the Raiders' first possession in the second quarter, Bailey ran three times and handed off the ball another seven. Bolingbrook equalized, 7-7, after a quick one-yarder from running back Jaden Huff right side.
"We knew we had to score and we knew we were in for a ball game for sure," said Bailey.
Bolingbrook charged forward with short runs and went up 14-7 in the third with a 52-yard drive and a touchdown pass to DJ Pruitt.
Upon getting the ball right back, Naperville Central needed only four downs to nearly even up as Lewandowski pitched one to Matt Randolph who ran 42 yards on the touchdown pass. Central missed a two-point conversion, keeping it at 14-13 to the Raiders.
Thereafter, Central began to struggle. After a 28-yard completion to Sean Goblet, Tevin Teamer picked off Lewandowski's pass meant for the endzone, holding on to a one-point lead for Bolingbrook.
Late in the fourth quarter, Bailey fired up his run game and the Raiders' defense really turned it on.
Down 19-14 to Central, Bailey slipped the Redhawks defensive line, for a stunning 60-yard touchdown run down the right side to make it 22-19 with a two-point conversion with seven minutes left.
Bailey piled on 181 yards in the second half.
Central got the ball back twice more but could do little with it.
Parrker Westphal, who made several stops on defense throughout the afternoon for Bolingbrook, put the nails in the coffin for Central, with two hard stops, keeping the Hawks inside their own 12.
"To be honest with we expected to get here. After we beat Mount Carmel, I said the team that wins this game is going to compete for the state championship," Bolingbrook coach John Ivlow said.
"We had just had to shut down [Lewandowski]," said Westphal. "And their running backs, who were good, we knew we'd have to stop them too."
Player of the Game: QB Aaron Bailey, who helped The Brook turn it on big in the second half.
Stat of the game: 125 lone rushing yards in the fourth quarter by Bailey, who had total of 205 yards in the win.
It was over when: Raiders defensive back Parrker Westphal stopped Central's last drive with a key tackle and a pass block the Redhawks' last two downs.
Quote of the game: "It's a blessing, just a blessing from God to get here," Bailey on the Raiders' state championship berth.
IHSA semifinal preview capsules
Here's a look at this week’s area playoff action.
No. 12 Glenbard North (9-3) at No. 1 Loyola (12-0)
When: Saturday at 12 p.m.
The story: It’s Loyola’s Class 8A state championship to lose at this point. The Ramblers have proven throughout this season that they’re the state’s top team. Their offense and defense have clicked in unison throughout the playoffs and haven’t been tested yet. Glenbard North has upset team after team in the playoffs. The Panthers have knocked off higher seeds behind the play of their two consistent running backs, Justin and Phillip Jackson. Scoring against Loyola won’t be easy. The Ramblers haven’t allowed more than 13 points since Week 2.
Glenbard North player to watch: Alex Mendez had one of the Panthers’ three interceptions last week.
Loyola player to watch: Defensive end Eric Hauser has been among the area’s best this season.
Prediction: Loyola 28, Glenbard North 17
No. 2 Bolingbrook (11-1) at No. 12 Naperville Central (9-3)
When: Saturday at 1 p.m.
The story: Naperville Central didn’t draw a lot of attention to itself during the regular season, but it wasn’t far off from being one of the area’s top teams if you go back and look at its results. It lost by 14 points to Waubonsie Valley to start the season and had narrow losses to Wheaton North and Wheaton Warrenville South. The Redhawks’ offense has been remarkable throughout the last three weeks. They have scored 40 or more points in every game. Bolingbrook has continued to be impressive on both sides of the ball. The Raiders have been jumping on opponents early and not giving them a chance.
Bolingbrook player to watch: Austin Van Meter compliments Florida recruit Antonio Morrison in Bolingbrook’s linebacker group.
Naperville Central player to watch: Defensive lineman Zach Borta was the defensive player of the year in the DuPage Valley Conference.
Prediction: Bolingbrook 27, Naperville Central 21
No. 4 Wheaton Warrenville South (9-3) at No. 3 St. Rita (10-2)
When: Saturday at 6 p.m.
The story: This is a rematch of a 2009 Class 7A quarterfinal game. Wheaton Warrenville South pulled out on a 23-14 win at St. Rita in that contest. This is expected to be another defensive slugfest with even maybe less scoring. Both teams have relied heavily on their defenses to get them here. Wheaton Warrenville South has out-scored their last two opponents 17-7. St. Rita hasn’t given up more than 14 points in the playoffs.
Wheaton Warrenville South player to watch: Defensive back and kick returner Mike Shelton has been making an impact all over the field.
St. Rita player to watch: Linebacker Will McNamara is one of the team’s defensive leaders.
Prediction: Wheaton Warrenville South 13, St. Rita 10
No. 5 Lake Zurich (10-2) at Rockford Boylan (12-0)
When: Saturday at 1 p.m.
The story: Both these teams played in a state title game last season. Lake Zurich lost to Wheaton Warrenville South in Class 7A. Rockford Boylan defeated Marmion in Class 6A. Lake Zurich’s defense has been the key to its success the past few weeks. It allowed a total of 17 points to Glenbard West and Elk Grove. Rockford Boylan’s offense hasn’t been contained all season. The Titans put up 30 points on Crystal Lake South last week and haven’t scored less than 28 points this season.
Lake Zurich player to watch: Running back Mike Shield came through again in last week’s win.
Rockford Boylan player to watch: Peter Cimino had three interceptions and a fumble recovery in last week’s win.
Prediction: Lake Zurich 17, Rockford Boylan 14
No. 6 Lemont (12-0) at Peoria Richwoods (9-3)
When: Saturday at 2 p.m.
The story: Peoria Richwoods started off its season 0-3 and has rallied to win its last nine games. The Knights squeaked out a 20-19 win over Danville last week. Lemont will be favored, but it will have to win on the road. The Indians notched their sixth shutout of the season with last week’s win. No one has come within 18 points of them through 12 games.
Lemont player to watch: Defensive lineman Sebastian Koziel recorded 1.5 sacks in last week’s win.
Peoria Richwoods player to watch: Running back Kendrick Foster rushed for 177 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win.
Prediction: Lemont 35, Peoria Richwoods 17
No. 9 Prairie Ridge (11-1) at No. 7 Batavia (12-0)
When: Saturday at 1 p.m.
The story: This is a game everyone has been waiting for in Class 6A. Batavia and Prairie Ridge have been two of the most dominant teams in the class throughout the season. Batavia has out-scored it opponents 506-124. Prairie Ridge has out-scored teams 520-101. Batavia hasn’t scored less than 31 points this season. Prairie Ridge hasn’t given up more than 22 points in a game. This could be a good one.
Prairie Ridge player to watch: Guard Tom Evans has been opening holes for the Wolves’ running backs all season.
Batavia player to watch: Defensive lineman Alex Lyons has had a memorable year.
Prediction: Batavia 28, Prairie Ridge 27
No. 8 Montini (10-2) at No. 13 Kaneland (12-0)
When: Saturday at 6 p.m.
The story: These two teams met in the Class 5A semifinals last season, and Montini won 27-14 at Kaneland. Montini will have to win on the road again if it’s going to get a shot at its third consecutive state championship. Montini was dominant on both sides of the ball in last week’s 52-27 win over Marian Central. Quarterback John Rhode has been unstoppable throughout the playoffs and threw five more touchdowns last week. Kaneland has been finding a way to win over the last month. The Knights’ last four games have been decided by six points or less.
Montini player to watch: Defensive back Joe Cione intercepted three passes in last week’s win.
Kaneland player to watch: Sophomore quarterback Drew David will likely need to have a big day for the Knights to pull off the upset.
Prediction: Montini 42, Kaneland 21
Sacred Heart-Griffin (12-0) at No. 10 Joliet Catholic (10-2)
When: Saturday at 2 p.m.
The story: This should be a battle of a great offensive team vs. a great defensive one. Sacred Heart-Griffin has allowed a total of 24 points in the playoffs. The Cyclones haven’t given up more than 15 points in a game since Week 1. On the other hand, Joliet Catholic has scored 145 points in the playoffs. The Hilltoppers have been held to less than 32 points just once this year. Something will have to give in this one.
Sacred Heart-Griffin player to watch: Chris Harris rushed for 152 yards and a touchdown in last week’s win.
Joliet Catholic player to watch: Kicker Isaac Grashoff could help decide a close game. He’s been accurate all season.
Prediction: Joliet Catholic 34, Sacred Heart-Griffin 28
Tolono Unity (11-1) at Aurora Christian (11-1)
When: Saturday at 5 p.m.
The story: Aurora Christian appears to be the front-runner in Class 3A. The Eagles have been getting it done offensively throughout the season. They’ve scored less than 34 points just once this season. Quarterback Anthony Maddie, a Western Michigan recruit, and wide receiver Chad Beebe are one of the best combos in the state. They’re good for 100 yards and a few touchdowns almost every week. Tolono Unity has put up its share of points this season as well. The Rockets have scored 40 or more points in eight games.
Tolono Unity player to watch: Michael Lafenhagen ran for 191 yards in last week’s win.
Aurora Christian player to watch: Julian Sosa is one of the team’s leaders on defense.
Prediction: Aurora Christian 42, Tolono Unity 28
Simeon (9-3) vs. Harper (10-2)
When: Saturday at 12 p.m. at Gately Stadium
The story: Harper and Simeon face off for the Public League championship and the right to represent the Public League in the Prep Bowl. Simeon had a disappointing run in the playoffs, but is making up for it now. The Wolverines did get by Fenger earlier in the week without quarterback Robert Gregory, who was serving a one-game suspension. Harper avenged an early-season loss to Dunbar in the Public League semifinals with a 40-14 win. The Cardinals have seven shutouts this year.
Harper player to watch: Kewane Pipkins threw for two touchdowns and ran for one against Dunbar.
Simeon player to watch: Paris Ratliff scored touchdowns on a fake punt and kickoff return in the Wolverines’ win over Fenger.
Prediction: Simeon 34, Harper 21
Brother Rice (8-4) vs. Mount Carmel (8-4)
When: Friday at 6 p.m. at Gately Stadium
The story: Brother Rice and Mount Carmel meet for the second time this season with this game deciding which team represents the Catholic League in the Prep Bowl. Mount Carmel won the first matchup 35-24 at home. Both teams like to keep on the ground and have two of the area’s top running backs.
Brother Rice player to watch: Running back Martez Walker has been among the area’s best this season.
Mount Carmel player to watch: Brandon Greer makes plays at running back and defensive back.
Prediction: Brother Rice 24, Mount Carmel 20
Football quarterfinal round preview
Lyons (7-4) at No. 1 Loyola (11-0)
When:Noon Saturday
The story: On paper, Loyola should run away with this one. But after last week’s round of upsets, it’s easy to realize that there are no guarantees in the playoffs. The Ramblers haven’t been tested yet through two rounds. They outscored their first two opponents 64-0. Lyons has had some close calls, defeating Bartlett by three points in the opening round and then knocked off Glenbrook South by three points in overtime last week. The Lions’ strength the past three weeks has been putting up points. Their only games of scoring 30 or more points this season came in the last three weeks.
Lyons player to watch: Jaime Jones would have been a great fantasy running back last week. He rushed for five touchdowns on 25 carries.
Loyola player to watch: Wide receiver Peter Pujals is coming off a nine-reception, 181-yard performance against Dunbar.
Prediction: Loyola 31, Lyons 13
No. 12 Downers Grove South (10-1) at No. 2 Bolingbrook (10-1)
When:6 p.m. Saturday
The story: Some of the best football games of the previous four years were Bolingbrook-Downers Grove South matchups. Last season, Bolingbrook won 28-21. In 2009, Bolingbrook won 16-14 in a regular-season matchup, and Downers Grove South won 22-20 in the playoffs. In 2008, Bolingbrook pulled out a 21-20 win. In 2007, Downers Grove South won 10-7. This was the first season their non-conferences meetings ceased, so it’s only fitting they square off in the Class 8A quarterfinals. This could be another classic.
Downers Grove South player to watch: Kaylon Miller is one of the many offensive weapons for the Mustangs.
Bolingbrook player to watch: Offensive lineman Robbie Bain is often responsible for the holes created for Aaron Bailey.
Prediction: Bolingbrook 26, Downers Grove South 24
No. 3 St. Rita (9-2) at O’Fallon (10-1)
When:7 p.m. FridayThe story: St. Rita will be making the long drive to the St. Louis area again. The Mustangs made a similar trip in Week 2 when they went to play an out-of-state opponent in East St. Louis. St. Rita is hoping for a better outcome this time after losing that game. O’Fallon has pulled out a couple close wins this season. It narrowly defeated Pekin 34-31 last week. The Panthers’ offense has scored on a consistent basis. St. Rita’s defense will be looking forward to that challenge.
St. Rita player to watch: Max Kurucar had a key interception in last week’s win over Andrew.
O’Fallon player to watch: Running back Ejay Johnson rushed for six touchdowns in the first round.
Prediction: St. Rita 30, O’Fallon 17
No. 4 Stevenson (9-2) at No. 17 Glenbard North (8-3)
When:3 p.m. Saturday
The story: According to the seeding, Stevenson and Glenbard North should not be playing in the quarterfinals. Glenbard North overcame Barrington and Palatine to get here. Stevenson pulled off the biggest upset of the playoffs with last week’s win over three-time defending Class 8A state champs Maine South. Stevenson has the been king of close games this season. The Patriots have won six games by a touchdown or less. Glenbard North fell on the wrong side of a couple close games during the regular season, but has been finishing strong late in the season.
Stevenson player to watch: Matt Morrissey is among the capable wide receivers for the Patriots.
Glenbard North player to watch: Phil Jackson makes his presence known on both sides of the ball.
Prediction: Stevenson 24, Glenbard North 21
No. 5 Wheaton Warrenville South (8-3) at East St. Louis (9-2)
When:Noon Saturday
The story: This is the game everyone had hoped to see last season, but it wasn't to be after East St. Louis was removed from the playoffs due to an ineligible player. Neither team is as talented as it was a year ago, but this should still be an entertaining game. East St. Louis’s defense overwhelmed Oswego with its speed in last week’s win. Its offense also has its share of athletes. Wheaton Warrenville South has been getting by on its defense. The Tigers pulled out a 7-0 win over Lincoln-Way East last week.
Wheaton Warrenville South player to watch: Jack Lipinsky is a threat to get to the quarterback on any play.
East St. Louis player to watch: Natereace Strong is no ordinary freshman running back. He ran for 146 yards and a touchdown against Oswego.
Prediction: Wheaton Warrenville South 17, East St. Louis 13
Elk Grove (10-1) at No. 6 Lake Zurich (10-1)
When:1 p.m. Saturday
The story: Lake Zurich put together a defensive masterpiece against Glenbard West. If the Bears are playing that well, there are few teams who will be able to beat them. Elk Grove has flown around the radar this season without any wins over ranked teams, but all it has been doing is winning. The Grenadiers are riding a nine-game winning streak into this game. They’ve scored 35-plus points in their two playoff games.
Elk Grove player to watch: Fernando Lozana scored three touchdowns in last week’s victory.
Lake Zurich player to watch: Mike Shield scored the lone touchdown in last week’s win over Glenbard West.
Prediction: Lake Zurich 21, Elk Grove 13
Hubbard (9-2) at No. 7 Lemont (11-0)
When:6 p.m. Saturday
The story: Hubbard is the lone Chicago Public League team to reach the quarterfinals in any class. The Greyhounds’ defense has come up big in the playoffs. It hasn’t allowed more than 13 points. Lemont will be a huge test for Hubbard. The Indians haven’t scored less than 35 points since September. Lemont is also one of the state’s premier defensive teams. It has allowed only two teams more than 14 points.
Hubbard player to watch: Quarterback Quincy Skanes ran for 116 yards and three touchdowns in last week’s win over Richards.
Lemont player to watch: Kyle Krull is one of the defensive stars for the Indians.
Prediction: Lemont 38, Hubbard 17
No. 8 Batavia (11-0) at Lakes (9-2)
When:5 p.m. Saturday
The story: Batavia again looked like one of the area’s best in last week’s win over Lake Forest. The Bulldogs’ run defense especially emerged in the win. That defense will have another challenge this week against Lakes and its bruising running back Direll Clark, who has been one of the biggest stars of the playoffs. He ran for 200-plus yards in last week’s win over Grant.
Batavia player to watch: Alec Lyons had a sack and two tackles for loss in last week’s win over Lake Forest.
Lakes player to watch: Andre Spencer had seven receptions for 114 yards and a touchdown last week.
Prediction: Batavia 38, Lakes 24
No. 9 Nazareth (10-1) at No. 15 Prairie Ridge (10-1)
When:1 p.m. Saturday
The story: This game has a state championship feel. Either team could take this game and go onto the win the Class 6A title. Nazareth was expected to be good this season, but no one could have imaged it would be this good. The Roadrunners ran through the gauntlet of the East Suburban Catholic for the league title and has been nearly perfect in the playoffs. Prairie Ridge went through a similarly difficult schedule in the Fox Valley and has cruised in its two playoff games. Both teams have strong run games and can put up points.
Prairie Ridge player to watch: Jordan Getzelman only needed five carries to run for 108 yards and two touchdowns last week.
strong>Nazareth player to watch: Aenas White caught a 56-yard touchdown pass in last week’s win over Cary-Grove.
Prediction: Nazareth 31, Prairie Ridge 21
No. 14 Marian Central (11-0) at No.10 Montini (8-3)
When:2 p.m. Saturday
The story: This is the quarterfinal matchup everyone was waiting for in Class 5A. Marian Central defeated Montini 21-20 when they met in Week 4. The question is whether Marian Central can repeat the feat now that Montini quarterback John Rhode has returned from injury. Rhode missed the first game. He’s thrown 28 touchdowns in his six games back. It’s not as if Marian Central pulled off a fluke win, though. No opponent has come within 15 points of the Hurricanes since their win over Montini.
Marian Central player to watch: Wide receiver Scott Stochal had eight receptions for 147 yards and one touchdown last week.
Montini player to watch: There may not be a better player in the state at any position than wide receiver Jordan Westerkamp.
Prediction: Montini 35, Marian Central 28
Rockford Boylan (11-0) at No. 11 Crystal Lake South (10-1)
When:1 p.m. Saturday
The story: Like Nazareth-Prairie Ridge, this game could have been a state championship game. Boylan and Crystal Lake South have been two of the state’s premier teams all season. Boylan, which won last year’s Class 6A title, has won all of its games by 14 or more points and has held 10 of its opponents to less than 10 points. Crystal Lake South’s defense has been just as spectacular. The Gators have allowed only one opponent more than 14 points this season. This game could come down to inches.
Rockford Boylan player to watch: Defensive lineman Dean Lowry is a Northwestern recruit.
strong>Crystal Lake South player to watch: Reese Dziedzic rushed for 127 yards in last week’s win over Carmel.
Prediction: Crystal Lake South 20, Boylan 14
No. 15 Joliet Catholic (9-2) at Washington (10-1)
When:1 p.m. Saturday
The story: Joliet Catholic had its season ended unexpectedly by Peoria Richwoods in the Class 5A quarterfinals last season. The Hilltoppers are looking to take another step this season. Joliet Catholic defeated Washington 49-7 in the opening round last season. This is an improved Washington team, though. The Panthers have been especially impressive defensively this year.
Joliet Catholic player to watch: Running back Ty Isaac added to his memorable season with five touchdowns last week.
strong>Washington player to watch: Dakota Bullard returned the opening kick 87 yards in last week’s win over Rich East.
Prediction: Joliet Catholic 38, Washington 24
No. 18 Homewood-Flossmoor (8-3) at No. 19 Naperville Central (8-3)
When:7 p.m. Friday
The story: Homewood-Flossmoor and Naperville Central have been two of the most dominant teams through two rounds of the playoffs. Both teams have scored 40-plus points in both of their wins. Naperville Central’s defense has been more consistent that the Vikings’ defense this season. In Naperville Central’s three losses, it didn’t allow its opponent more than 21 points. In Homewood-Flossmoor’s three losses, it allowed 30-plus points in each game. Homewood-Flossmoor likely has the edge on offense between the two teams.
Homewood-Flossmoor player to watch: Tim Williams has continued to be one of the top quarterbacks in the area.
Naperville Central player to watch: Quarterback Ian Lewandowski ran for two touchdowns and threw for one in last week’s win.
Prediction: Naperville Central 38, Homewood-Flossmoor 28
No. 20 Kaneland (11-0) at Rochelle (8-3)
When:1 p.m. Saturday
The story: The saying “a win is a win” is most apt for the playoffs. It doesn’t matter how you survive, as long you survive. Kaneland and Rochelle are well aware of this. Kaneland got by Belvidere with a 51-45 win the first round and edged St. Francis 31-28 in the second round. Rochelle defeated Urban Prep Charter 43-41 in the first round and Sycamore 21-16 in the second round. The two teams met in the regular season, and Kaneland defeated Rochelle 35-14 in Week 5.
Kaneland player to watch: Cornerback Jacob Razo intercepted his ninth pass of the season last week.
Rochelle player to watch: Quarterback Nick Moore had a 91-yard touchdown run in last week’s win.
Prediction: Kaneland 28, Rochelle 17
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Scott Powers
Scott Powers is an award-winning journalist and has been reporting on preps, colleges and pros for publications throughout the Midwest since 1997.
PREPS PHOTO GALLERIES
- Whitney Young Wins Title
- Whitney Young defeats Edwardsville to win the state championship on March 3.
- Trinity vs. Marist
- No. 4 Trinity defeats No. 3 Marist in preps hoops on January 16, 2012.
- Whitney Young vs. Simeon
- Jabari Parker and Simeon battle Whitney Young on December 22, 2011.
- Boylan Beats WWS
- Rockford Boylan defeats WWS in the 7A finals on November 26, 2011.
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