Midseason High School Football Update: Week 5 Insights and Playoff Picture
The regular season has reached its midpoint, and significant developments are underway in high school football. Week 5 brought surprises, including Providence losing its undefeated status with a 17-7 defeat to Nazareth. This game marked Providence’s first since parting ways with head coach Tyler Plantz. Meanwhile, Oak Lawn and Lincoln-Way East maintained their perfect records due to impressive performances from players like Jayden Schlosser and Jayden Cawthon.
Playoff Prospects for Teams Ending Droughts
With playoffs impending, several teams that haven’t participated for years are now making strides. The expanded playoffs have opened doors for these teams. Leo, with a 3-2 record, anticipates its first playoff appearance since 2013. Bloom shares a similar record and looks forward to a potential playoff return after 2017. Thornton, also at 3-2, aims for its first playoff since 2019. If Marian Catholic wins its next matchup against St. Viator, it expects to break its postseason hiatus dating back to 2019.
These teams aren’t merely sneaking into playoffs late. Post-Week 5, they’re well-positioned, with the possibility of achieving a 5-4 record, a qualifying metric under prior systems. As the bigger picture unfolds, only eight Southland teams risk missing the playoffs. De La Salle, Bremen, Eisenhower, Argo, and Thornridge face challenges, while others still have reasonable chances.
Playoff Hopes for St. Laurence and Rich Township
St. Laurence could qualify with two wins, though a third would dispel doubt. A crucial victory against Marmion looks necessary. Rich Township, with a recent decisive win over Bloom, seems poised for the playoffs following Ortez Johnson’s stellar performance.
Challenging Path for Stagg
The Chargers remain a noteworthy case, seeking their first playoff entry since 2005. Success against Thornridge is crucial, though subsequent matches show challenging odds. Without an upset, their prospects remain elusive.
Race for the Bye Week
Securing a first-round bye becomes pivotal as most teams gear up for playoffs. Typically requiring seven wins, some teams may qualify even with six victories, depending on opponent success. Teams like Lincoln-Way East, Oak Lawn, Mount Carmel, and Morgan Park appear well on track.
Additionally, T.F. North and Evergreen Park are in promising positions. Some teams, however, including Providence, Lincoln-Way Central, Brother Rice, and Richards, could see critical shifts depending on their upcoming performances.
Surprising Scores and Developments
The most unexpected score came from Hillcrest’s 38-20 victory over Lemont. Initially regarded as a strong team despite a 0-3 start, Hillcrest showed resilience, elevating their record to 2-3, largely due to Ladell Ross transitioning from receiver to quarterback and delivering three touchdown passes. The South Suburban Blue conference promises an action-packed season moving forward.