High School Football Week 3 Highlights: Oak Lawn’s Revenge and Playoff Prospects

The third week of the high school football season brought a sense of calm after a hectic start. Few upsets occurred, and top teams maintained their positions. Yet, new teams emerged, and standout performances captured attention. Notably, five Southland teams reached a 3-0 record, hinting at early playoff spots before Labor Day. Here are the highlights from Week 3.

Oak Lawn’s Redemption and South Suburban Red Outlook

Oak Lawn’s Spartans, after a rough run from 2022 to 2024, had a strong 2025 season start. They had a 7-1 record last year until Reavis handed them a heavy defeat in Week 9. This year, the Spartans avenged last season’s loss with a 48-14 triumph over the Rams. Jayden Schlosser, a senior fullback, shone with 214 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Currently, Oak Lawn averages 55.3 points per game. Although their early opponents struggled, Oak Lawn’s performance suggests a promising future.

The South Suburban Red conference looks to be highly competitive. Richards, typically a strong contender, is facing challenges this season with a 1-2 record, narrowly beating Evergreen Park 20-13 in their latest match. Evergreen Park, despite the loss, proved they can compete against top teams. Shepard, standing at 2-1, will soon face both Evergreen Park and Oak Lawn, promising exciting matchups in the weeks ahead.

Playoff Prospects for New Lenox Teams

The expanded playoff system now allows 48 teams per class to qualify. This makes three wins a significant milestone toward postseason play. Providence and Lincoln-Way West in New Lenox can already celebrate reaching this benchmark. Providence impressed with a dominant 27-0 victory over Joliet Catholic, showcasing a strong defense and offensive talent with players like Broden Mackert and Brayden McKay.

Lincoln-Way West also achieved a 3-0 start, overpowering opponents with a 90-13 combined score. Tougher competition awaits, but the Warriors look prepared. Alongside them, Lincoln-Way East, Sandburg, and Oak Lawn are also undefeated, eyeing postseason entry. Early qualification leads these teams to focus on securing a top ranking for an opening-round bye.

Unexpected Score: Tinley Park 50, Argo 0

Tinley Park’s 50-0 victory over Argo highlights their promising season under first-year coach James Washington. Despite a 1-8 finish last year, the Titans are 2-1, averaging 43 points per game. They showed competitive spirit even in a season-opening loss to Grayslake Central. Senior quarterback Randy Ludke has excelled, passing for 633 yards and eight touchdowns, alongside four rushing scores. Senior Noah James, with 15 receptions, has been a key component. Tinley Park faces a challenging test against rival Oak Forest, which defeated them 43-7 last season.