Unbeatens battle at H- F, Barrington
No. 3 Hawks travel to Palatine to square off against Pirates
Bolingbrook ( 3- 0) at No. 7 Homewood- Flossmoor ( 3- 0), 7 p. m. Friday
The Vikings have had an impressive start, with big wins over Michigan City ( Ind.), Southern Durham ( N. C.) and Stagg. Senior all- around athlete Justin Hall and versatile defensive back Marcell Ellis are playmakers. Bolingbrook quarterback Anthony Vespo is taking charge this season, finding athletes like I’Shawn Stewart in crucial moments. The Southwest Suburban title could be decided in this battle of high- powered offenses.
Glenbrook South ( 3- 0) at No. 12 Barrington ( 3- 0), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
Quarterback Savontae Garner led Glenbrook South to an overtime victory against Conant in Week 3. The Titans were just 1- 8 last season. It’s no surprise Barrington is off to a strong start behind quarterback Ray Niro and running back Michael Curran. Niro is a dual threat whose skill set enables him to make plays all over the field. The winner makes a statement.
No. 3 Maine South ( 2- 1) at No. 18 Palatine ( 2- 1), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
The defending Class 8A state champions have been one of the area’s best so far, with the only loss coming against No. 1 Lincoln- Way East. Running back Fotis Kokosioulis has contributed as a rushing threat and in the passing game. First year quarterback John O’Sullivan has also been terrific. Palatine senior receiver Johnny O’Shea is fresh off a two- touchdown performance in a 35- 12 win over Evanston. O’Shea is the primary receiving threat, but the Pirates have a bevy of backs that contribute to the running game.
St Charles North ( 2- 1) at No. 14 St Charles East ( 3- 0), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
This is a huge Upstate Eight River battle. The Fighting Saints were in a tight game against Geneva before eventually winning 23- 16 on a touchdown grab by senior Nicholas Garlisch. East quarterback Clayton Isbell has had success through the air but is also dangerous on the ground. He rushed for more than 200 yards last week. St. Charles North’s only loss is to Bolingbrook in Week 2. The North Stars showed their depth at quarterback against Larkin by starting David Beach. Both Beach and Week 1 and 2 starter Michael Hohensee have put up big numbers.
Minooka ( 2- 1) at Plainfield North ( 3- 0), 7 p. m. Friday
This Southwest Prairie matchup has the potential to be very close. Plainfield North took down last season’s conference champs, Oswego, in Week 2 and shut out Romeoville 47- 0 in Week 3. Running back Joe Stiffend scored three touchdowns against Romeoville and quarterback Brady Miller passed for two touchdowns. The Tigers’ offense has been explosive. Minooka’s start has been a bit more low- key but very successful. After a Week 1 loss to Oswego, the Indians rebounded with shutout wins against Joliet Central and Plainfield East. Minooka has a strong, talented defense, and quarterback Jalen King has had a ton of success throwing to Billy Pierce.