High School Football Week 3 Review

The third week of the high school football season offered a respite from the earlier frenzy. Teams have found their footing, with few surprises among those ranked at the top of their areas.

Remarkably, five Southland teams made a strong start by becoming 3-0 before Labor Day, effectively securing playoff spots early in the season. These teams demonstrate how significant early wins can be in the path to playoffs.

Oak Lawn’s Redemption and South Suburban Red’s Competitive Edge

Oak Lawn’s performance stood out this week. The Spartans, after struggling in previous seasons, were a feel-good story last year until they faced setbacks later in the season. This week, they achieved vengefulness, defeating Reavis with a score of 48-14. Senior fullback Jayden Schlosser played a pivotal role, rushing for 214 yards and scoring three touchdowns. Oak Lawn’s current average is 55.3 points per game, although the strength of their opponents’ records may put a question mark on their performance.

There’s anticipation about how the South Suburban Red conference season will unfold. Richards usually tops the conference but showed vulnerabilities with a narrow win against Evergreen Park. Evergreen Park’s competitive loss suggests they could contend with others in the conference. Shepard also shows promise and faces challenging matches ahead.

Early Playoff Qualification in New Lenox and More

The expansion of playoffs now allows 48 teams to qualify per class. Providence and Lincoln-Way West in New Lenox have embraced their secured postseason spots after achieving three wins early. Providence impressed in their 27-0 victory over Joliet Catholic, shutting down previous lapses in defense and showcasing strong performances from Broden Mackert and Brayden McKay.

Across town, Lincoln-Way West maintained their winning streak while scoring an impressive 90-13 against their competitors. The season’s intensity will increase, but Lincoln-Way West seems prepared. Other teams sitting at 3-0 include Lincoln-Way East, Sandburg, and Oak Lawn, each aiming for an opening-round bye.

Noteworthy Performance by Tinley Park

Tinley Park’s performance deserves attention after their 50-0 victory against a struggling Argo team. Under new coach James Washington, Tinley Park already shows progress as evidenced by their 2-1 record and 43-point average. Senior quarterback Randy Ludke leads with 633 passing yards and eight touchdowns, complemented by senior Noah James’ 15 receptions.

The Titans will face Oak Forest next, providing an opportunity to test the growth they’ve shown this season. Last season’s defeat against Oak Forest poses a challenge but also a chance for redemption.