The quarterfinals of the IHSA football playoffs saw various Chicagoland high school teams perform notably across different classes.
Class 8A: Mount Carmel vs. Lincoln-Way East
Mount Carmel achieved a 21-16 victory over Lincoln-Way East. Senior defensive back Cullen Winters showcased his defensive skills after returning from a knee injury. He made two significant tackles and several key stops, ensuring Mount Carmel’s defensive strength. Quarterback Brady Cloherty, with 32 completions on 45 attempts, amassed 310 yards. Ty Kennedy and Michigan recruit Quentin Burrell contributed with touchdown receptions, as Mount Carmel moved to the semifinals against Oswego.
Class 8A: St. Ignatius vs. Loyola
St. Ignatius surprised many with a 21-8 win over Loyola. Despite past playoff disparities, St. Ignatius, led by junior quarterback Reid Hites, executed a strong triple-option offense. Hites rushed for 88 yards and two touchdowns. The victory set them up to face New Trier in the semifinals.
Class 8A: Oswego vs. Bolingbrook
Oswego triumphed over Bolingbrook with a 31-7 score. Caden Cooney stood out with a sack and an interception. The strong defensive performance enabled Oswego to avenge an earlier season loss to Bolingbrook. Oswego advanced to challenge Mount Carmel in the semifinals.
Class 6A: Hersey vs. Lincoln-Way West
Hersey defeated Lincoln-Way West 33-14, driven by junior running back Jackson Travis. After an early fumble, Travis rallied to rush for 236 yards and two touchdowns. Hersey, ranked No. 6, advanced to the semifinals, marking their first appearance since their 1987 state title victory. They will face Downers Grove North next.
Class 5A: Providence vs. Carbondale
Providence dominated Carbondale with a 42-8 victory. Jaden Malone contributed with interceptions and tackles, while Broden Mackert rushed for 203 yards, scoring four touchdowns. Providence progressed to meet Mahomet-Seymour in the semifinals.
Class 2A: Aurora Christian vs. El Paso-Gridley
Aurora Christian’s Juju Vasquez led a comeback victory with a 28-24 win over El Paso-Gridley. Vasquez completed 16 of 26 passes for 157 yards and rushed for additional yardage. Aurora Christian will face Wilmington in the semifinals.

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