Chicagoland High School Football Teams in IHSA Quarterfinals

Class 8A: Mount Carmel vs. Lincoln-Way East

Mount Carmel secured a tight 21-16 victory over Lincoln-Way East in the Class 8A quarterfinals. Senior defensive back Cullen Winters played a pivotal role, coming back strong from a knee injury with crucial tackles. Brady Cloherty impressed by completing 32 of 45 passes for 310 yards, including touchdowns to Ty Kennedy and Quentin Burrell. Mount Carmel, with a 10-2 record, advances to face Oswego in the upcoming semifinals.

Class 8A: St. Ignatius vs. Loyola

St. Ignatius pulled off a surprising 21-8 win against Loyola. Junior quarterback Reid Hites, despite being considered an underdog, successfully led the triple-option offense. Hites scored two rushing touchdowns and amassed 88 yards on 20 carries. St. Ignatius, now boasting a 10-2 record, will compete against New Trier in their first semifinal appearance since 2022.

Class 8A: Oswego vs. Bolingbrook

Oswego dominated Bolingbrook with a 31-7 triumph. Senior Caden Cooney showcased his skills on defense, achieving a sack and interception. Oswego (11-1) overcame its regular-season defeat to Bolingbrook, securing a spot in the semi-finals against Mount Carmel.

Class 6A: Hersey vs. Lincoln-Way West

Hersey triumphed over Lincoln-Way West with a convincing 33-14 win. Running back Jackson Travis rebounded from an early setback by rushing 236 yards and scoring two touchdowns on 31 carries. The undefeated Huskies (12-0) move forward to meet Downers Grove North in the semifinals.

Class 5A: Providence vs. Carbondale

Providence routed Carbondale with a commanding 42-8 victory. Sophomore Jaden Malone contributed significantly, including a key interception and four tackles. Broden Mackert added to the effort, rushing 203 yards and achieving four touchdowns. Providence will confront Mahomet-Seymour in the next round of the semifinals.

Class 2A: Aurora Christian vs. El Paso-Gridley

Aurora Christian edged out El Paso-Gridley 28-24. Quarterback Jesus “Juju” Vasquez led a remarkable comeback with two passing touchdowns, tallying 157 passing yards and gaining 31 yards on the ground. Aurora Christian, now 11-1, is set to clash with Wilmington in the semi-finals.