Week 6 High School Football Highlights: Key Takeaways

October Football Begins

With six weeks of the regular season completed, October football is upon us. This is the pivotal month when conference titles are decided, playoff spots secure, and the postseason kicks off with more teams than before. Week 6 has brought about intrigue regarding the standings as the season progresses.

Catholic League Games Reshape Contender Views

Three major Catholic League games have altered perspectives on contenders across several playoff classes. These outcomes set the stage for a much-anticipated showdown in the South Suburban Red conference.

Biggest Crosstown Battle in Oak Lawn

Oak Lawn awaits a significant matchup. The Spartans nearly lost their unbeaten record last Friday against Evergreen Park, trailing 14-6 in the fourth quarter. However, junior quarterback Danny Strelow ran for 162 yards and two touchdowns, with senior running back Jayden Schlosser contributing 111 yards and a touchdown, securing a 21-14 overtime victory.

Next, Oak Lawn faces its toughest challenge with an upcoming game against Richards. Despite a long-standing rivalry, Oak Lawn hasn’t been competitive enough to make it an actual rivalry historically. The Bulldogs have dominated with a 28-1 record over the past 30 years, including a decisive win last season. Yet, this year, Oak Lawn is poised to be very competitive. Richards, with a 4-2 record, improved weekly, highlighted by senior Eric Jacobs excelling as quarterback. Excitement surrounds this year’s crosstown matchup.

“Oak Lawn’s Danny Strelow (27) dives into the end zone for a TD in overtime against Evergreen Park during a South Suburban Red game in Evergreen Park on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026.” (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Providence and St. Rita Overcome State Champions

Providence and St. Rita achieved significant victories. Providence (5-1) edged past the defending Class 6A champion Fenwick 28-21. Junior quarterback Dominic Vita rebounded from a past setback by contributing both a touchdown pass and a rushing score. This win solidifies Providence’s standing as a major contender despite upcoming challenges.

St. Rita encountered a tough schedule, yet the Mustangs (3-3) defeated reigning Class 4A champion Montini 39-38. Senior running back Brandon Johnson Jr. and quarterback John Fennell excelled, showcasing the team’s ability to remain formidable.

“St. Rita’s Brandon Johnson Jr. (23) makes his way toward the sideline for a big run against Marist during a CCL/ESCC crossover game in Chicago on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025.” (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Brother Rice Shocks with Victory

Brother Rice’s 35-24 win over Mount Carmel defied expectations. While a Brother Rice victory wasn’t surprising, their method of winning was unexpected. The Crusaders shut out Mount Carmel in the fourth quarter, led by freshman quarterback Sam Holcomb making significant plays late in the game.

Senior receiver Anthony Cartolano praised Holcomb’s performance, acknowledging his skill and aggression. “Sam is an amazing player, an amazing athlete. He comes out and plays with aggression all the time,” Cartolano stated. Holcomb’s growing experience boosts Brother Rice’s aspirations to repeat as Class 7A champions.