Catholic League showdown tops slate
No. 1 Loyola ( 8- 0) at No. 3 Brother Rice ( 8- 0), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
This is the game we’ve been waiting for in the Catholic League. Will Loyola prove it’s the best team in the state? Or will a strong, talented Brother Rice team knock the Ramblers off their throne? Loyola has shown nothing but discipline all season and looks like the team to beat in Class 8A once again. The Crusaders are led by Illinois recruit Ricky Smalling, whose yards after the catch are a game- changer.
Bolingbrook ( 4- 4) at No. 2Homewood- Flossmoor ( 8- 0), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
Last year, Bolingbrook was the only team to take down H- F in the regular season. If the Raiders don’t win, they won’t get into the playoffs. Bolingbrook has plenty of talent, including receiver Kendall Smith ( an Illinois recruit) and defensive lineman Izayah Green- May ( a Wisconsin recruit), who has seen some time at running back. The Vikings have a host of talented athletes, including receiver Tyrice Richie ( an NIU commit).
No. 4 Neuqua Valley ( 8- 0) at Glenbard North ( 6- 2), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
It won’t be easy for Neuqua Valley to finish the regular season undefeated. Glenbard North running back Vittorio Tricase has rushed for more than 1,000 yards, and quarterback Shane Conway continues to connect with Northwestern recruit Jace James for big plays. Neuqua Valley has its share of star power, too, led by Notre Dame- bound cornerback Isaiah Robertson. The Wildcats already have clinched the DuPage Valley title.
No. 11OakPark ( 7- 1) at No. 5 Hinsdale Central ( 8- 0), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
The winner takes the West Suburban Silver title. Hinsdale Central quarterback Josh Bean has led the offense and is committed to Columbia. Oak Park has its share of offensive firepower, too, led by quarterback Jeremy Hunt. Both teams already have secured a spot in the playoffs and are looking to continue to pad their résumés.
Wheaton North ( 4- 4) at Waubonsie Valley ( 4- 4), 7: 30 p. m. Friday
Both schools have a lot on the line. Each needs a victory to secure a spot in the playoffs. Wheaton North hasn’t made the playoffs since 2013. The Falcons defeated Naperville Central 45- 27 last week to stay in the hunt. Waubonsie Valley is coming off a 17- 14 loss to Naperville North.