The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) state quarterfinals are set to showcase exciting matchups in the Kane County Chronicle area this Saturday. Among the highlights, the clash between St. Charles North and Brother Rice promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Class 7A features the No. 3-ranked St. Charles North (10-1) taking on No. 6 Brother Rice (10-1) at 6 p.m. This matchup will be held after St. Charles North secured a nail-biting 26-23 win against No. 14 Carmel in the second round. The North Stars were down 16-7 in the second quarter but rallied with 19 unanswered points, highlighted by touchdowns from running backs Carsen Durante and Tommy Vendl. The defense was key, forcing three turnovers and shutting down a high-powered Corsairs offense. With favorable weather conditions expected, St. Charles North hopes to leverage its passing game, including standout receiver Keaton Reinke, who has committed to Northwestern.
Brother Rice, on the other hand, has established itself as a formidable contender by dominating its playoff games thus far, not allowing any points. The Crusaders dispatched No. 27 Jefferson with a 57-0 rout and followed up with a 46-0 victory over No. 22 Jacobs. Senior running back Jaylin Green has emerged as a star, achieving significant yardage and touchdowns in recent games. While quarterback CJ Gray has had limited passing attempts, his season totals include over 1,400 yards and 20 touchdowns. The Crusaders have demonstrated a potent offense, averaging nearly 39 points per game while their defense has been equally impressive, conceding under 10 points on average.
The winner of this matchup will advance to face the victor of the game between No. 7 Lincoln-Way West (10-1) and No. 15 Downers Grove North (9-2).
In another exciting matchup, No. 21 Glenbard North (8-3) will challenge No. 13 Batavia (9-2) at 1 p.m. Glenbard North has made a remarkable turnaround this season, moving from a two-win record over the past two years to playoff success. The Panthers triumphed 22-14 against No. 5 Moline to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2021, with standout performances from senior running back Donato Gatses, who has exceeded 2,100 rushing yards this season. The Panthers” defense has also excelled, shutting out No. 12 Yorkville in their playoff opener.
Batavia, a consistent quarterfinal contender, powered through No. 4 Glenbard East with a 42-21 victory. Junior quarterback Michael Vander Luitgaren displayed his versatility, connecting with multiple receivers and accumulating 254 passing yards. The Bulldogs have historically dominated their matchups against Glenbard North, winning all seven meetings since the formation of the DuKane Conference.
In Class 6A, No. 2 Burlington Central (10-1) will face No. 11 Fenwick (8-3) at 1 p.m. at Triton College. The Rockets are vying for their first-ever semifinal appearance after previous quarterfinal exits. With a solid defense and strong performances from quarterback Landon Arnold, who has been pivotal in their postseason games, Burlington Central has shown promise. The Friars, meanwhile, are coming off two impressive playoff wins, showcasing their offensive depth.
Finally, No. 13 King (7-4) will meet No. 9 St. Francis (8-3) at 1 p.m. This marks King”s first state quarterfinal appearance, featuring a mix of size and speed with notable performances from sophomore running back Jamar Lewis. St. Francis, having faced tough competition in the Chicago Catholic League, looks to continue its playoff journey after a thrilling victory over top-seeded Prairie Ridge.
The quarterfinal matchups are set to deliver intense action as teams vie for a place in the semifinals, with each squad bringing its strengths to the field.
