Week 5 Football Highlights and Playoff Prospects

The regular season has passed the halfway point. Week 5 witnessed one of the three remaining undefeated teams, Providence, lose 17-7 to Nazareth. This defeat followed the firing of head coach Tyler Plantz. Oak Lawn and Lincoln-Way East maintained their perfect records with standout performances from Jayden Schlosser and Jayden Cawthon.

Postseason Race Begins

With five weeks down, the postseason race gains importance. The expanded playoffs are offering new chances for teams that haven’t been to the postseason recently.

Teams Breaking Droughts

Several teams are poised to end lengthy postseason absences:

• Leo, with a record of 3-2, is set to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2013.
• Bloom will make a postseason appearance for the first time since 2017.
• Thornton is likely to enter the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
• Marian Catholic can clinch its first playoff berth since 2019 with a victory over St. Viator.

These teams are not relying on a last-minute win in Week 9. They have secured or are close to securing playoff spots by Week 5. Most likely, all but eight teams from the Southland will make it to the playoffs. De La Salle, Bremen, Eisenhower, Argo, and Thornridge face tough paths ahead.

Challenging Outlook for Select Teams

Richards’ Eric Jacobs searches for running opportunities against Homewood-Flossmoor, indicating a competitive spirit among teams battling for playoff spots.

St. Laurence’s Path Forward

St. Laurence holds a 1-4 record. They could potentially secure a playoff with two more wins, hinging on essential victories, notably against Marmion.

Rich Township’s Promising Run

Rich Township impressed by defeating Bloom 41-0, led by Ortez Johnson’s incredible 295-yard, three-touchdown performance. Their path to a playoff spot looks promising.

Stagg’s Uphill Battle

Despite their 1-4 record, Stagg’s next match against Thornridge is crucial. They must defy the odds in subsequent games to stand a chance at a playoff berth for the first time since 2005.

For other teams, the playoffs offer a chance to enjoy and excel in postseason play.

Race for the Bye Week

Teams are now focused on securing an opening-round bye. Achieving seven wins is key, although six-win teams with sufficient opponent victories may still qualify. Lincoln-Way East, Oak Lawn, Mount Carmel, and Morgan Park seem well-placed to earn byes. Teams like Providence and Lincoln-Way Central face crucial toss-up games impacting their playoff paths.

Week 5’s Surprising Score

Hillcrest’s triumph over Lemont by 38-20 was unexpected. Hillcrest turned their season around from 0-3 through three touchdowns by Ladell Ross, originally a receiver now quarterback. The South Suburban Blue looks set for an unpredictable season.