SVM-SS4_10292015

playoff preview blitz

Sauk Valley Media

First Round | October 29, 2015

DESTINATION DEKALB Five local teams have hopes of finishing their seasons at Huskie Stadium in the state championships. That road starts this weekend. SVM has all you need to know about the 2015 playoffs in a special 12-page preview guide.

Starting lineups, stats, results, brackets and more!

INSIDE.

The bottom line Sterling 1 p.m. Dixon Metamora Sat. Lutheran Wh. Academy

Geneseo

1 p.m. Lisle Sat. Byron

7 p.m. Farmington 2 p.m. Winnebago Fri. Newman Sat. IC Catholic 7 p.m. ROWVA Fri. Princeton

7:15 Mon.-United 1 p.m. West. Christ. 7 p.m. Stockton Fri. Hall Sat. Polo Fri. Galena

7 p.m. West Carroll 2 p.m. Forreston Fri. Tri-Valley Sat. Dakota

2 p.m. Warren Sat. Chi. Hope

1 p.m.

Sat.

1 p.m. Princeville 1 p.m.

Sat. Lena-Winslow Sat.

@DanWoessner @BrianWeidman @STyReynolds @pm222 @CodyCutter35 Sauk Valley Sports

PAGE 2

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Illinois state champions 1974-2014

Class 1A

1974 – Flanagan (12-0) 1975 – Triopia (13-0) 1976 – Hampshire (13-0) 1977 – Genoa-Kingston (13-0) 1978 – Arcola (11-1) 1979 – Hampshire (13-0) 1980 – Atwood (14-0) 1981 – Aquin (13-0) 1982 – Ziegler-Royalton (12-0) 1983 – Yorkwood (13-0) 1984 – Routt (13-0) 1985 – Arcola (14-0) 1986 – Aquin (12-2) 1987 – Bloomington C.C. (12-2) 1988 – Arcola (13-1) 1989 – Orangeville (12-2) 1990 – Newman (12-2) 1991 – Stockton (14-0) 1992 – Calhoun (14-0) 1993 – Calhoun (13-1) 1994 – Newman (14-0) 1995 – Carthage (14-0) 1996 – Chenoa (12-2) 1997 – Galena (14-0) 1998 – Carthage (14-0) 1999 – Carthage (14-0) 2000 – Carthage (14-0) 2001 – Wethersfield (13-1) 2002 – South Beloit (13-1) 2003 – Galena (11-3) 2004 – Alexis United (13-1) 2005 – Aquin (13-1) 2006 – Tuscola (14-0) 2007 – Galena (14-0) 2008 – Triopia (14-0) 2009 – Tuscola (11-3) 2010 – Lena-Winslow (13-1) 2011 – Dakota (12-2) 2012 – Maroa-Forsyth (13-1) 2013 – Lena-Winslow (11-3) 2014 – Forreston (13-1)

Class 2A

1974 – St. Teresa (13-0) 1975 – St. Teresa (13-0) 1976 – Fulton (13-0) 1977 – Mahomet-Seymour (12-1) 1978 – Stockton (12-1) 1979 – St. Teresa (12-1) 1980 – Schlarman (13-0) 1981 – Schlarman (12-1) 1982 – Bloomington C.C. (12-1) 1983 – Woodstock Marian (13-0) 1984 – Amboy (13-0) 1985 – Casey-Westfield (14-0) 1986 – Woodstock Marian (12-2) 1987 – Woodstock Marian (13-1) 1988 – Carlyle (14-0) 1989 – Woodstock Marian (14-0) 1990 – Seneca (14-0) 1991 – Fulton (14-0) 1992 – Richmond-Burton (11-3) 1993 – Coal City (14-0) 1994 – Rockridge (12-2) 1995 – Hampshire (12-2) 1996 – LeRoy (14-0) 1997 – Central A&M (14-0) 1998 – Aledo (12-2) 1999 – Stillman Valley (12-2) 2000 – Stillman Valley (14-0) 2001 – Aledo (13-1) 2002 – Aledo (14-0) 2003 – Iroquois West (13-1) 2004 – Newman (13-1) 2005 – Dakota (14-0) 2006 – Maroa-Forsyth (14-0) 2007 – Dakota (14-0) 2008 – Immaculate Conception (10-4) 2009 – Morrison (14-0) 2010 – Newman (14-0) 2011 – Morrison (13-1) 2012 – Mercer County (14-0) 2013 – Newman (13-1) 2014 – Eastland-Pearl City (14-0)

Class 3A

1974 – West Chicago (13-0) 1975 – Metamora (13-0) 1976 – Geneseo (13-0) 1977 – Geneseo (12-1) 1978 – Geneseo (13-0) 1979 – Mascoutah (13-0) 1980 – Morris (12-1) 1981 – Mount Carmel (13-0) 1982 – Bishop McNamara (12-0) 1983 – Monmouth (12-1) 1984 – Anna-Jonesboro (12-1) 1985 – Bishop McNamara (14-0) 1986 – Bishop McNamara (11-3) 1987 – Bishop McNamara (12-2) 1988 – DuQuoin (14-0) 1989 – Althoff (13-1) 1990 – Althoff (13-0) 1991 – Driscoll (14-0) 1992 – DuQuoin (14-0) 1993 – Pontiac (13-1) 1994 – Bloomington C.C. (13-1) 1995 – Hall (13-1) 1996 – Carterville (14-0) 1997 – Kaneland (14-0) 1998 – Kaneland (14-0) 1999 – Byron (14-0) 2000 – Harrisburg (14-0) 2001 – Hall (13-1) 2002 – Immaculate Conception (13-1) 2003 – Stillman Valley (13-1) 2004 – Driscoll (12-2) 2005 – Bureau Valley (14-0) 2006 – Plano (14-0) 2007 – Plano (13-1) 2008 – Illini West (14-0) 2009 – Stillman Valley (14-0) 2010 – Illini West (14-0) 2011 – Aurora Christian (13-1) 2012 – Aurora Christian (13-1) 2013 – Stillman Valley (12-2) 2014 – Wilmington (14-0)

Class 4A

1974 – Rockford East (13-0) 1975 – Joliet Catholic (13-0) 1976 – Joliet Catholic (12-1) 1977 – Joliet Catholic (13-0) 1978 – Joliet Catholic (13-0) 1979 – Wheaton North (12-1) 1980 – Althoff (12-1) 1981 – Wheaton North (13-0) 1982 – Geneseo (12-1) 1983 – Woodstock (11-2) 1984 – Morris (13-0) 1985 – Washington (13-1) 1986 – Tinley Park (12-2) 1987 – Providence (13-1) 1988 – Richards (14-0) 1989 – Richards (14-0) 1990 – Joliet Catholic (14-0) 1991 – Providence (14-0) 1992 – Oswego (13-1) 1993 – Chicago Heights Marian (14-0) 1994 – Belvidere (12-2) 1995 – Providence (14-0) 1996 – Providence (14-0) 1997 – Providence (13-1) 1998 – Glenwood (14-0) 1999 – Joliet Catholic (14-0) 2000 – Joliet Catholic (14-0) 2001 – Driscoll (12-2) 2002 – Driscoll (13-1) 2003 – Driscoll (14-0) 2004 – Montini (13-1) 2005 – Driscoll (14-0) 2006 – Driscoll (13-1) 2007 – Driscoll (14-0) 2008 – Bloomington C.C. (14-0) 2009 – Metamora (13-1) 2010 – Rochester (14-0) 2011 – Rochester (12-2) 2012 – Rochester (13-1) 2013 – Rochester (13-1) 2014 – Rochester (12-2)

Class 5A

1974 – Glenbrook North (12-0) 1975 – Deerfield (13-0) 1976 – St. Laurence (13-0) 1977 – East Leyden (13-0) 1978 – St. Rita (13-0) 1979 – East St. Louis (12-0) 1980 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 1981 – Joliet Catholic (13-0) 1982 – Guilford (13-0) 1983 – Glenbard West (13-0) 1984 – Richwoods (13-0) 1985 – Rockford East (11-3) 1986 – Wheaton North (13-1) 1987 – Joliet Catholic (12-2) 1988 – Richwoods (14-0) 1989 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 1990 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (14-0) 1991 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (12-2) 1992 – Wheaton Warrenville South (14-0) 1993 – Belvidere (14-0) 1994 – Providence (14-0) 1995 – Maine South (12-2) 1996 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (14-0) 1997 – Woodstock (14-0) 1998 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (14-0) 1999 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 2000 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 2001 – Joliet Catholic (13-1) 2002 – Providence (14-0) 2003 – Joliet Catholic (13-1) 2004 – Joliet Catholic (14-0) 2005 – Sacred Heart-Griffin (14-0) 2006 – Sacred Heart-Griffin (14-0) 2007 – Metamora (14-0) 2008 – St. Francis (13-1) 2009 – Montini (10-4) 2010 – Montini (12-2) 2011 – Montini (12-2) 2012 – Montini (12-2) 2013 – Sacred Heart-Griffin (14-0) 2014 – Sacred Heart-Griffin (14-0)

Class 6A

1980 – Gordon Tech (12-1) 1981 – Brother Rice (11-2) 1982 – Reavis (12-1) 1983 – East St. Louis (13-0) 1984 – East St. Louis (13-0) 1985 – East St. Louis (14-0) 1986 – Buffalo Grove (14-0) 1987 – Hersey (12-2) 1988 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (14-0) 1989 – East St. Louis (14-0) 1990 – Thornton (12-2) 1991 – East St. Louis (13-1) 1992 – Naperville North (12-2) 1993 – Loyola (12-2) 1994 – Homewood-Flossmoor (13-1) 1995 – Wheaton Warrenville South (12-2) 1996 – Wheaton Warrenville South (13-1) 1997 – Lincoln-Way (14-0) 1998 – Wheaton Warrenville South (14-0) 1999 – Naperville Central (14-0) 2000 – Maine South (13-1) 2001 – Providence (14-0) 2002 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 2003 – Mundelein Carmel (14-0) 2004 – Providence (13-1) 2005 – Morris (14-0) 2006 – Normal (14-0) 2007 – Joliet Catholic (13-1) 2008 – Sacred Heart-Griffin (13-1) 2009 – Cary-Grove (14-0) 2010 – Boylan (14-0) 2011 – Prairie Ridge (13-1) 2012 – Crete-Monee (14-0) 2013 – Batavia (13-1) 2014 – Nazareth (14-0)

Class 7A

2001 – Prospect (14-0) 2002 – Prospect (12-2) 2003 – Oswego (13-1) 2004 – Libertyville (14-0) 2005 – Prospect (13-1) 2006 – St. Rita (13-1) 2007 – Lake Zurich (13-1) 2008 – East St. Louis (13-1) 2009 – Wheaton Warrenville South (13-1) 2010 – Wheaton Warrenville South (14-0) 2011 – Boylan (14-0) 2012 – Glenbard West (14-0) 2013 – Chi. Mt. Carmel (13-1) 2014 – Providence (13-1)

Class 8A

2001 – Downers Grove South (12-2) 2002 – Lockport (13-1) 2003 – Lockport (12-2) 2004 – Downers Grove North (12-2) 2005 – Lincoln-Way East (14-0) 2006 – Wheaton Warrenville South (14-0) 2007 – Naperville North (13-1) 2008 – Maine South (14-0) 2009 – Maine South (14-0) 2010 – Maine South (12-2) 2011 – Bolingbrook (13-1) 2012 – Chicago Mt. Carmel (13-1) 2013 – Naperville Central (11-3) 2014 – Stevenson (14-0)

Most championships 1. Joliet Catholic 13 2. Chicago Mt. Carmel 12 3. Providence 10 4. Driscoll 8 5. East St. Louis 7 5. Wheaton Warrenville So. 7 7. Carthage/Illini West 6 8. Montini 5 8. Maine South 5 8. Newman 5 8. Stillman Valley 5 8. Rochester 5 8. Sacred Heart-Griffin 5

GOING ON VACATION? Keep in touch with the news of the Sauk Valley

2007 2013 2014 2007 2008 2010 2010 2012 2010 2013 2013 2014 2014

October 29, 2015 • Sauk Valley Media

PAGE 3

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 5A • Sterling (7-2) at Metamora (7-2) • 1 p.m. Saturday at Metamora H.S. • 94.3 FM

Keeping Redbirds at front of mind

How they stack up:

Sterling Golden Warriors Offensive starters

QB RB HB Slot WR WR LT LG C RG RT

2 30 22 11 1 5 52 64 61 55 51

Sterling Thornton Andrew Spaulding Brayden Garza Grant Jacoby Jordan Asbury Reid Blackburn Cariel Beasley Esteban Sosa Tyler Williams Sammy Wike Jacob Martinez

6-0 6-1 5-10 5-7 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-1 6-3 5-11 6-1

180 170 205 160 160 170 245 215 225 235 220

Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr So Sr Sr

DE DT DT DE OLB ILB ILB OLB CB FS CB

71 59 52 32 13 54 42 44 11 12 3

Max Goss Brady Hall Beasley Treay Martin Keegan Kaye Kyle Beer Ethan Sensor Tyson Hall Jacoby Turner Morse Jacob Heffelfinger

6-1 5-9 6-3 6-0 5-8 5-8 6-0 5-8 5-7 5-10 5-8

220 185 245 180 165 200 175 170 160 155 170

Jr Jr Sr Jr Jr Jr Jr Jr Sr Jr Sr

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • Sterling Thornton, 156 carries, 799 yards, 20 TDs • Rafael Escalante, 85-477, 6 TDs • Brandon Dennis, 72-469, 6 TDs Passing • Thornton, 80-for-123, 1,024 yards, 7 TDs, 1 INT Receiving • Turner Morse, 29 receptions, 487 yards, 2 TDs • Jordan Asbury, 26 receptions, 297 yards

Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Warriors 56, Rock Falls (0-9) 6 Warriors 42, United Twp. (2-7) 20 Warriors 28, Alleman (3-6) 21 Morris (4-5) 38, Warriors 21 Warriors 49, LaSalle-Peru (3-6) 22 Warriors 28, Ottawa (4-5) 7 Warriors 17, Geneseo (8-1) 14 Warriors 35, Rochelle (3-6) 0 Sycamore (6-3) 21, Warriors 18

Warriors move quickly past Week 9 loss

BY DAN WOESSNER dwoessner@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5555 @DanWoessner

On the ceiling above Latrell Vaughn’s bed is a piece of tape with the word “Metamora” printed on it.

It’s the first thing the Golden Warrior sophomore running back sees when he wakes up, and even if it’s too dark to see, he knows it’s there when he closes his eyes at night.

The purpose is to make sure that he keeps focused on the Metamora Redbirds, so that he can do his part in making sure they are not the last team the Warriors see in the 2015 season.

Sterling travels to Metamora for a 1 p.m. game Saturday in the first round of the 5A playoffs.

405 5th Ave., Sterling 815-564-0542

Open 6 AM - 3 PM • 7 Days Serving Breakfast & Lunch

GOOD LUCK TO ALL OUR AREA TEAMS!

Maple Pancake House

Latrell Vaughn Sterling sophomore

Sterling Thornton Sterling senior

“I’ve been using that as motivation,” Vaughn said.

“That and losing to Sycamore last week. They were a good team, but we had chances to win that game.

It’s about learning from that and staying focused.”

Sterling has played Metamora six times in the past 20 seasons, with two of them coming in the playoffs. Sterling dropped quarterfinal games to the

Redbirds in Metamora in 1995 and 1999.

Since those two games, the two teams have split four regular-season meetings, the last one coming in Week 1 of the 2014 season, which Metamora won 29-14.

Leading the way is quarterback Jacob Mitchell, who played receiver in 2014.

What he lacks in height – 5-foot-8 – he makes up for with quick feet.

“I noticed right away how elusive he is,” Vaughn said.

“I don’t think we’ve seen a quarterback like that this season.”

Mitchell did miss the final two games with an ankle injury, but is expected to return Saturday. Leading rusher Brock Modglin also has missed time due to injury, but will play Saturday.

How they stack up:

Metamora Redbirds Offensive starters

QB 3 RB 32 RB 7 WR/FL 9 WR 31 TE 94 LT 70 LG 67 C 72 RG 77 RT 65

Jacob Mitchell Brock Modglin Kyhi Willey Jake Burgess Lucas Pycz Sam Brace Noah Fletcher Bobby Hubbart Kyle Barrow Dalton Horowitz Richard Shoopman

5-8 6-0 5-8 5-8 6-2 6-3 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-0 6-2

155 205 190 150 190 250 230 250 245 235 275

Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr Jr Jr Sr Sr Jr

DE DT DT DE LB LB LB CB CB S S

Kyle Robertson Cadin Watkins Horowitz Brant Welborn Aaron Zalar Gavin Mitchell Chris Leonos Tyler Prunty Mitchell Jon Brunton Willey

6-0 6-6 6-0 6-0 5-11 6-1 5-10 6-0 5-8 6-1 5-8

204 260 235 220 190 210 200 187 155 170 190

Jr Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr So Sr Sr Jr Sr

49 71 77 44 47 11 40 22 3 14 7

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • Jacob Mitchell, 105 carries, 1,038 yards, 11 TDs • Brock Modglin, 136-836, 13 TDs • Kyhi Willey, 44-436, 6 TDs Passing • Mitchell, 22-for 37, 304 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs • Jon Brunton, 7-14, 131 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs Receiving • Garrett Dominy, 8 receptions, 142 yards, 2 TDs Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Redbirds 52, Pontiac (7-2) 13 Redbirds 21, Alleman (3-6) 15 Redbirds 56, Morton (0-9) 14 Washington (9-0) 35, Redbirds 0 Redbirds 30, Canton (3-6) 15 Redbirds 42, Limestone (5-4) 33 Dunlap (6-3) 31, Redbirds 30, OT Redbirds 25, Pekin (3-6) 22 Redbirds 62, East Peoria (3-6) 21

Way To Go Area Teams!

Now Acceptin New Patients $59 9 New w Patient Exam & Cleaning $1 1.00 Emerrgency Exa am Expires s in 30 Days

BEST OF LUCK TO ALL AREA TEAMS! 2321 E. LINCOLNWAY, STERLING 815-625-7474

Vu Da ang, DDS - General Dessntist 312 2 2nd Avenue e | Sterling, IL ww ww.TrueSmile esOnline e.ccom Call Today! (81 15) 564--26 650

PAGE 4

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 4A • Dixon (6-3) at Lutheran (9-0) • 7 p.m. Friday at Rockford Lutheran H.S. • 1460 AM How they stack up:

Dixon Dukes Offensive starters

QB RB RB WR WR WR LT LG C RG RT

12 23 15 30 7 4 75 79 50 52 67

Nate Gascoigne Nyrel Sullivan Arthur Cox Kyle LeBlanc Bryce Stanley Kandras Martin Diante Sanders Bret Reynolds Ricardo Soresie Collin Newman Jordan Bivins

6-1 5-10 5-6 6-1 5-10 5-7 6-0 5-11 6-0 6-2 6-3

160 155 160 200 155 140 277 334 215 293 310

Sr So So Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr

DL DL DL DL LB LB LB CB CB S S

76 58 66 65 2 24 32 21 27 20 25

Caleb Moton Aramis Hussung Brock Burgess Drake Fluker Raheem Jacobs Brady Newman Jared Harrison Josh Wiseman Kaylon Westmorland Benny Mayes Andrew Wolber

5-11 6-7 6-0 6-2 5-8 6-0 5-11 5-10 5-8 5-6 6-0

262 200 190 255 209 185 165 164 161 155 175

Sr Jr So Jr Sr Sr So Sr Jr Sr Jr

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • Arthur Cox, 89 carries, 764 yards, 10 TDs • Nyrel Sullivan, 91 carries, 732 yards, 11 TDs Passing • Nate Gascoigne, 119-for-198, 1,411 yards, 16 TDs, 7 INTs Receiving • Kyle LeBlanc, 50 receptions, 703 yards, 10 TDs • Nyrel Sullivan, 15 receptions, 132 yards, 1 TD • Bryce Stanley, 13 receptions, 116 yards • Arthur Cox, 12 receptions, 149 yards, 2 TDs • Benny Mayes, 12 receptions, 121 yards, 2 TDs • Kandra Martin, 11 receptions, 136 yards, 1 TD Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Dukes 1, Clemente (2-7) 0 (fft.)

Dukes 26, Burl. Central (1-8) 6 Lutheran (9-0) 95, Dukes 28 Dukes 28, Oregon (3-6) 27 Dukes 35, Mendota (1-8) 14 Winnebago (5-4) 65, Dukes 50 Dukes 44, Stillman (4-5) 36 Dukes 47, Rock Falls (0-9) 14 Byron (7-2) 43, Dukes 13

Dixon not crusading for retribution Dukes focusing on little things, not revenge

BY TY REYNOLDS treynolds@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5554 @STyReynolds

There’s always a bigpicture feel to the IHSA football playoffs. When the brackets come out, the first thing most people do is project who has the easiest road to a state championship in each class.

Dixon coach Dave Smith, who has led the Dukes to the playoffs for the second straight season, wants his team to worry about the little things.

“We’ve asked the kids to focus this week, and not let anything get them out of that focus,” Smith said.

“Everybody has to do their jobs – line up correctly, know their assignments –

Smith said. “I think each week we’ve gotten better, and we’ll be better prepared seeing them a second time.

“Obviously I can’t guarantee the outcome,” he added, “but anything can Arthur Brady Cox Newman happen; that’s why they Dixon Dixon play the games. I just know sophomore senior that our kids are going into and do it for four quarters. this thing with everything they have, and that’s all I We want them to stay on can ask.” an even keel and just play Lutheran is led by senior the game.” running back James RobDixon (6-3) will travel to Rockford to face undefeat- inson, who holds the IHSA records for rushing yards ed Lutheran in a rematch of Week 3’s 95-28 Crusader (8,812) and touchdowns (155) in a career. This seavictory at A.C. Bowers Field. But that’s in the past, son, he has 2,228 yards on and Smith doesn’t want his 108 carries – 20.6 yards per carry – and 41 TDs; he also players to dwell on that. has a TD catch and a kick“We’re a different team off return for a score. than we were in Week 3,”

Providing Paramedic Care for Dixon & the Surrounding Area Since 1983

The he Fiirrs rst st Nat Na ati tio ion ona nal al Ban ank nk

Good Luck All Area Teams!

Where you come first. www.fnbamboy.com

Advance EMS of Dixon, Inc. began in 1983 with one ambulance and five employees. To date, they have four ambulances, one paramedic intercept vehicle, and 25 employees. Advance EMS of Dixon, Inc. provides advanced life support not just to Dixon but also the surrounding communities.

ADVANCEEMS

815-288-6898

661 Reynoldswood Rd., Dixon

24 hours a day. 365 days a year.

Main Office Drive-Up 220 E. Main St.,Amboy 301 E. Joe Dr.,Amboy 815-857-3625 Dixon North Dixon South 1314 N. Galena Ave. 728 S. Crawford Ave. 800-216-0008

How they stack up:

Lutheran Crusaders Offensive starters

QB RB WR WR WR WR T G C G T

2 25 16 20 33 27 54 61 53 64 69

Payton Womack James Robinson Marcus Hayes Ian Erwin Joshua Streeter Equavion Dismuke Matt Anderson Jon Anderson Mitchell Funk Nathaniel Gulley Mason Crain

5-9 5-11 5-10 5-11 6-1 5-4 5-11 5-10 6-2 5-11 6-2

160 215 183 155 165 115 187 190 180 220 185

Jr Sr Jr Sr Jr Jr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr

DL DL DL OLB LB LB OLB CB CB S S

50 59 66 61 54 37 69 31 16 25 12

Elias Fambro Brady West Nick Todaro J.Anderson M.Anderson Logan Davis Crain Tyler Baird Hayes Robinson Nicolas Brigham

5-7 5-11 5-11 5-10 5-11 6-1 6-2 5-10 5-10 5-11 6-2

185 196 180 190 187 210 185 151 183 215 200

Jr Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Jr Jr Sr Jr

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • James Robinson, 108 carries, 2,228 yards, 41 TDs • Payton Womack, 38 carries, 483 yards, 5 TDs • Marcus Hayes, 13 carries, 78 yards, 2 TDs Passing • Womack, 56-for-95, 940 yards, 16 TDs, 1 INT Receiving • Hayes, 24 receptions, 516 yards, 8 TDs • Ian Erwin, 13 receptions, 216 yards, 5 TDs • Equavion Dismuke, 10 receptions, 44 yards • Joshua Streeter, 6 receptions, 115 yards, 1 TD Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Crusaders 62, Quincy ND (6-3) 7 Crusaders 76, Rkfd. Christian (0-9) 7 Crusaders 95, Dixon (6-3) 28 Crusaders 49, Winnebago (5-4) 6 Crusaders 60, Oregon (3-6) 0 Crusaders 54, Mendota (1-8) 7 Crusaders 56, Byron (7-2) 19 Crusaders 48, Stillman (4-5) 0 Crusaders 63, Rock Falls (0-9) 6

GOOD LUCK TO AREA TEAMS!

October 29, 2015 • Sauk Valley Media

PAGE 5

FB15 • FIRST-ROUND EXTRA

Class 3A • Farmington (5-4) at Newman (8-1) • 2 p.m. Saturday at Roscoe Eades Stadium • 102.7 FM, 107.7 FM

Comets peaking at right time

How they stack up:

Farmington Farmers Offensive starters

QB RB WR WR WR TE T G C G T

6 8 4 22 23 2 78 53 59 62 51

Steven Gilstrap Cade Lansford Rashann Frier-Bain Judd Anderson Jacob Hursey Reid Berry Jake Geber Isaiah Alvarez Tanner Crowe Dylan Kenney Threal Anderson

6-2 5-7 5-8 5-7 5-10 6-2 5-10 5-8 5-11 5-11 6-0

180 150 140 133 160 194 210 205 205 205 185

Sr So Sr So Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr So So

DL DL DL LB LB LB LB LB CB CB FS

78 59 52 30 53 15 14 25 8 13 18

Geber Crowe Jarod Depriest Jonah Cecil Alvarez Kyle Welker Jake Settles Evan Marion Lansford Dylan Hayden Jack Fletcher

5-10 5-11 6-2 6-0 5-8 5-7 5-11 5-8 5-7 5-11 6-0

210 205 230 160 205 160 165 170 150 155 175

Sr Jr Fr Jr Sr Sr Jr So So Jr So

Defensive starters

Newman glad to be home after road swing

BY PATRICK MASON pmason@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5550 @pm222

Newman football coach Mike Papoccia didn’t want to see his team easing into the playoffs.

It would have been easy.

The road to the Comets’ 15th consecutive playoff appearance was paved with five wins by the end of Week 5. And with a handful of road games on tap, the season became a grind.

Three consecutive Three Rivers Mississippi road games at Sherrard, Hall and St. Bede to end the season will do that. The trips were mentally and physically draining on the Comets, but they ended up with three wins, and will host Farmington in

2015 leaders

Rushing • Steven Gilstrap, 98 carries, 891 yards, 10 TDs • Cody Jepson, 75 carries, 571 yards, 8 TDs Passing • Gilstrap, 80-for-177, 1,287 yards, 17 TDs, 11 INTs Receiving • Eric Higgs, 28 receptions, 574 yards, 7 TDs • Judd Anderson, 18 receptions, 220 yards, 5 TDs

Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Anna.-Weth. (8-1) 20, Farmers 14 Mercer Co. (5-4) 26, Farmers 20 Farmers 48, River Valley (0-9) 0 Farmers 12, Knoxville (6-3) 8 Farmers 68, Havana (1-8) 6 Farmers 42, West Prairie (2-7) 34 Elm.-Brimfield (8-1) 77, Farmers 64 Farmers 49, Peoria Heights (5-4) 40 Rushville-Industry (7-2) 31, Farmers 30

CONGRA S AREA TEAMS! Angelo’s 608 12th Ave., Rock Falls 625-5163

Angelo’s Delivery Angelo’s II

1804 Locust St., Sterling 625-5000

2525 E. Lincolnway, Sterling 625-5451

Angelo’s III

800 North Galena Ave., Dixon 285-0055

Brady Rude Newman senior

Max Oswalt Newamn senior

the first round of the Class 3A playoffs at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Roscoe Eades Stadium.

“We told the kids that we didn’t want to back into the playoffs,” Papoccia said. “Being on the road for 3 weeks is tough, but they fought for everything.

They could have given up and died, but instead they turned it up a notch.”

The Comets earned a No.

4 seed with an 8-1 record, and did so behind a punishing rushing attack from area leader Brady Rude.

Farmington (5-4) didn’t finish quite as strong, stumbling a bit at the end of its season with a 1-2 record, and allowing at least 31 points in all three games.

Defense is a weak spot for Farmington, which posted one shutout this season, but allowed at least 30 points in four of its nine games.

Farmington has scored at least 30 points six times, and five of those were at least 40-point totals. Quarterback Steven Gilstrap poses a dual threat with 1,287 passing yards on 177 attempts, while running for 891 yards on 98 carries with 10 touchdowns.

“Only Dealership in Northern Illinois with Ten Franchises - One Location”

Good Luck to our Area Teams!

928-1100 N. Galena, Dixon SHOP 24/7

@ www.KenNelsonAuto.com

How they stack up:

Newman Comets Offensive starters

QB FB HB HB SE SE T G C G T

11 45 12 35 41 81 51 54 68 66 77

Landen Vesley Kyle Decker Logan Whitman Brady Rude Jacob Heiderscheidt John Wilson Zach Brauman Rhett Scroggins Jacob Neisewander Max Oswalt Kalen Smith

6-2 6-1 5-10 5-8 6-2 6-0 6-0 6-0 5-11 6-0 5-10

195 215 180 170 185 175 215 240 175 210 250

So Sr Sr Sr Jr Jr Jr Sr Jr Sr Jr

T NT T LB LB LB LB LB CB CB S

54 52 66 34 35 45 12 20 17 23 24

Rhett Scroggins Victor Francque Oswalt Aaron Scroggins Rude Decker Whitman Hunter Webb Eli Leffelman Garrett Stringer Eli Monier

6-0 6-2 6-0 5-11 5-8 6-1 5-10 6-3 6-0 5-8 6-0

240 200 210 180 170 215 180 150 180 150 155

Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • Brady Rude, 187 carries, 1,443 yards, 18 TDs • Kyle Decker, 47 carries, 199 yards, 0 TDs • Logan Whitman, 61 carries, 193 yards, 4 TDs Passing • Whitman, 8-for-21, 164 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs • Landon Vesley, 13-for-41, 158 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs Receiving • John Wilson, 9 receptions, 149 yards, 2 TDs Aug. 28 Sept. 5 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 26 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Comets 22, Rockridge (6-3) 8 Comets 28, Fulton (4-5) 16 Comets 30, Morrison (3-6) 8 Comets 38, Kewanee (3-6) 29 Comets 26, Erie-Ptown (4-5) 20 Princeton (9-0) 14, Comets 0 Comets 54, Sherrard (0-9) 7 Comets 22, Hall (7-2) 21 Comets 30, St. Bede (4-5) 27

Congratts Area Schools!!

1514 W. 4th Street Sterling (815) 625-5949

PAGE 6

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 2A • West Carroll (5-4) at Tri-Valley (9-0) • 2 p.m. Saturday at Tri-Valley H.S. • 100.3 FM How they stack up:

West Carroll Thunder Offensive starters

WR RB WR QB FB OL OL OL OL OL OL

1 3 7 9 36 51 66 67 68 74 88

Austin Mallow Ethan Mangler Stephen Santeramo Kody Plattenberger Eric LaShelle Justin Appel Anthony Barr Cody Sturtevant Alex Haring Josh Anderson Luke Jones

5-5 5-11 5-9 5-8 5-11 6-3 5-9 6-0 6-0 5-9 6-2

145 190 150 170 210 190 250 190 210 270 190

Jr Sr Sr So Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Jr Jr

DB LB DB DB LB DB LB DL DL DL DL

1 3 7 9 21 25 36 51 66 74 88

Mallow Mangler Santeramo Kaleb Plattenberger Jake Miller Salvador Magana LaShelle Appel Barr Anderson Jones

5-5 5-11 5-9 5-7 6-0 5-11 5-11 6-3 5-9 5-9 6-2

145 190 150 155 180 160 210 190 250 270 190

Jr Sr Sr So Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr Jr Jr

Defensive starters

2015 leaders

Rushing • Ethan Mangler, 128 carries, 874 yards, 7 TDs • Logan Barker, 36-268, 5 TDs • Eric LaShelle, 59-238, 7 TDs Passing • Kody Plattenberger, 46-98, 623 yards, 4 TDs, 6 INTs Receiving • Austin Mallow, 15 receptions, 240 yards, 2 TDs • Stephen Santeramo, 14 receptions, 154 yards

Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Dakota (7-2) 52, Thunder 6 Thunder 40, EPC (2-7) 0 Thunder 56, South Beloit (0-9) 13 Thunder 34, Pecatonica (2-7) 6 Forreston (7-2) 28, Thunder 22 Thunder 30, Durand (3-6) 20 Thunder 24, East Dubuque (3-6) 20 Galena (7-2) 49, Thunder 28 Lena-Winslow (9-0) 47, Thunder 28

Thunder prepared to make big noise

How they stack up:

Tri-Valley Vikings Starters not available 2015 leaders

West Carroll looks to pull off first-round upset

BY CODY CUTTER ccutter@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5552 @CodyCutter35

With the 5-4 record that the West Carroll Thunder possess, the reward for entering the playoffs doesn’t come easy.

The undefeated top-seed of the upper half of the 2A bracket, Tri-Valley, will entertain the Thunder in Downs on Saturday afternoon for a 2 p.m. kickoff.

Making the playoffs for the first time in 8 years, the Thunder are looking to do the very thing they did the last time they played in the first round. In 2007, the then-5-4 Thunder beat Illini West, one of the state’s top small school programs, in Carthage.

Good Luck To Area Teams!

Eric LaShelle West Carroll senior

Ethan Mangler West Carroll senior

But this year, they’ll go up against a quarterback that has state title game experience. Senior Peyton Roop, son of Vikings head coach Josh Roop, guided the offense in a 28-21 Class 1A loss to Lena-Winslow in DeKalb in 2013.

Junior linebacker Jared Nelson and senior right tackle Matt Sorensen also return from that team.

“We know they’ve got

some star players,” West Carroll’s Eric LaShelle said. “Their quarterback, especially. We might be keying on [Roop], and a couple of good linebackers they’ve got. Other than that, I just think it’s going to be an overall good game between both of us.”

The Thunder got their first look at Tri-Valley during a film session Monday afternoon. While the winloss records are far from similar, the presences on the football field won’t be lopsided.

“We’re pretty equal in size,” West Carroll’s Ethan Mangler said. “No one’s really one-upping one another in size, so it’s going to be a head-on-head game.”

Good Luck To All Area Teams!

www.vaessenbrothers.com

Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Vikings 49, Fieldcrest (7-2) 18 Vikings 55, Watseka (1-8) 6 Vikings 47, Flanagan-Wood. (1-8) 6 Vikings 40, Ridgeview (0-9) 0 Vikings 62, Dee-Mack (7-2) 21 Vikings 63, Chicago Senn (4-5) 8 Vikings 21, LeRoy (6-3) 0 Vikings 55, Heyworth (2-7) 6 Vikings 75, Palestine (2-7) 0

FIRST CL ASS INSUR ANCE Your Farm Mutual Insurance Agency

6 West 4th Street, Milledgeville

815-225-7777 firstclassins1@gmail.com

LUCK MARC D OS O O !”

“G

“Great Deals, Great Service, Since 1926” Rt. 52 N. Sublette, IL Ph. 815/849-5232 or 1-800-227-5203 After 6, 849-5251

Rushing • Payton Roop, 72 carries, 931 yards, 12 TDs • Hayden Long, 82-888, 14 TDs • Brock Danko, 55-615, 11 TDs Passing • Roop, 32-48, 705 yards, 11 TDs, 2 INTs Receiving • Jake Steiner, 12 receptions, 313 yards, 6 TDs • Tom Kinsella, 8 receptions, 160 yards, 1 TD

25 E. Main St. Amboy, IL 815-857-3691

F l a v o r s We bring life to products.TM

October 29, 2015 • Sauk Valley Media

PAGE 7

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 1A • Westminster Christian (6-3) at Polo (9-0) • 7 p.m. Friday at Polo H.S. • 107.7 FM How they stack up:

Westminster Ch. Warriors Starters not available 2015 leaders

Rushing • Xavier Brown, 68 carries, 752 yards, 11 TDs • Tannor Park, 52-321, 3 TDs • Noah Anderson, 31-271, 4 TDs Passing • Park, 44-for-72, 942 yards, 13 TDs, 1 INT Receiving • Scotty Graziano, 21 receptions, 418 yards, 4 TDs • Bobby Scott, 12 receptions, 350 yards, 4 TDs

BEST OF LUCK MARCOS !

Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 24

Results

Warriors 60, Mooseheart (0-9) 0 Chicago Hope (8-1) 40, Warriors 6 Warriors 14, Christian Life (5-4) 7 Warriors 29, Luther North (3-6) 6 Warriors 58, Christian Liberty (1-8) 0 Ott. Marquette (9-0) 41, Warriors 7 Warriors 56, Hiawatha (4-5) 6 Warriors 48, Williams Bay, Wis. (2-7) 6 Alden-Hebron (5-4) 28, Warriors 23

Westminster thrilled to join the party Unbeaten Marcos prepared for playoff newbie

BY BRIAN WEIDMAN bweidman@saukvalley.com 800-798-4085, ext. 5551 @BrianWeidman

Westminster Christian of Elgin has made great strides in its 3 years as a football program.

On Friday night, the Warriors will have a chance to see how far they have come in a playoff setting. Westminster Christian (6-3) will make the long trip to Polo to tangle with the Marcos (9-0) in a Class 1A firstround playoff game.

Westminster had records of 2-7 and 4-5 its first 2 years, but took another step in the right direction by reaching the postseason.

Third-year head coach John Davis noted continuity in the program has been the key.

Brad Cavanaugh Polo senior

Richie Bartnick Polo senior

“We’ve got some players who have played together for quite some time,” Davis said, “dating back to junior tackle. They were part of our high school team when we started 2 years ago, and now they’re having some success going against players their own age.”

Wetsminster’s top three threats are all juniors. They are quarterback Tannor Park, who has completed

44 of 72 passes for 942 yards and 13 touchdowns; running back Xavier Brown, with 68 carries for 752 yards and 11 TDs; and tight end Scotty Graziano, who has 21 receptions for 418 yards and four scores.

The Warriors use an option attack that has produced 33.4 points per game.

“We’re going to have to be pretty sound defensively to take on that scheme,” Polo coach Andrew Hofer said.

The Marcos, meanwhile, have been a wrecking machine this season, outscoring nine opponents 488-35.

“We’ll have to come up with some ways to try and slow them down,” Davis said. “It’s going to be a tough job, but we’re looking forward to having the opportunity.”

We’re Behind You! 610 N. DIVISION • POLO

Best of Luck To The Polo Marc s SHANNON • POLO • LAKE CARROLL

(815) 864-2111 Shannon (815) 946-2777 Polo (815) 864-2125 Lake Carroll www.fsbshannon-polo.com

How they stack up:

Polo Marcos Offensive starters

QB RB RB RB TE TE LT LG C RG RT

10 4 23 34 2 13 51 62 65 55 73

Brody Grobe Brad Cavanaugh Brooks Grobe Dylan Beers Richie Bartnick Wyatt Patterson Ethan Cain Keegan Garman Noah Prerost Juan Dominguez Brodie Cromer

NG DE DE LB LB LB LB LB CB CB S

88 55 51 4 10 11 23 34 2 28 24

Marcus Almasy Dominguez Cain Cavanaugh Brody Grobe Tristen Aguilar Brooks Grobe Beers Bartnick Braxton Stamm Jesse Ditzler

5-11 6-3 5-11 5-10 5-11 6-4 5-9 6-0 5-10 6-1 6-0

Defensive starters

6-1 6-1 5-9 6-3 5-11 5-10 5-11 5-10 5-11 5-7 5-8

185 175 185 205 180 190 180 210 220 215 220

Sr Sr Sr Sr Sr Sr Sr. Sr Sr Sr Jr

175 215 180 175 185 175 185 205 180 160 165

Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr. Sr Sr Sr Sr Sr.

2015 leaders

Rushing • Brooks Grobe, 75 carries, 963 yards, 13 TDs • Brad Cavanaugh, 48-539, 12 TDs • Tristen Aguilar, 19-358, 5 TD Passing • Brody Grobe, 19-for-25, 256 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT Receiving • Richie Bartnick, 18 receptions, 240 yards, 5 TDs • Cavanaugh, 5 receptions, 82 yards, 1 TD Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23

Results

Marcos 61, River Ridge (0-9) 0 Marcos 50, Durand (3-6) 0 Marcos 48, Stockton (7-2) 8 Marcos 45, E-PC (2-7) 0 Marcos 50, Warren (6-3) 6 Marcos 57, Milledgeville (4-5) 0 Marcos 61, Aquin (5-4) 7 Marcos 52, AFC (4-5) 14 Marcos 64, Orangeville (1-8) 0

BOCKER EXCAVATING & DEMOLITION Inc. Waterways • Basements • Ponds & Land Clearing Trees Fencelines • Buildings & Cement Disposal Site Prep Roads • Driveways • Grading & Hauling Landscaping and Retaining Walls

FULLY INSURED & FREE ESTIMATES

815-946-2600 POLO Cell: 815-541-8264

PAGE 8

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 1A playoff bracket 1. Tuscola (9-0)

1. Stark County (9-0)

16. Camp Point Central (5-4)

16. Tremont (5-4)

8. Greenfield-NW (6-3)

8. Dakota (7-2)

9. LeRoy (6-3)

9. Forreston (7-2)

4. Carrollton (8-1)

4. Polo (9-0)

13. Red Hill (5-4)

13. Westminster Chr. (5-4)

5. Pawnee (8-1)

5. Chicago Hope (8-1)

12. Decatur Lutheran (5-4)

12. Warren (6-3)

2. G.C.-Melvin-Sibley (9-0)

2. Ottawa Marquette (9-0)

15. Mount Olive (5-4)

15. Alden-Hebron (5-4)

7. Decatur St. Teresa (6-3)

7. Galena (7-2)

10. West Central (6-3)

10. Stockton (7-2)

3. Arcola (9-0)

3. Lena-Winslow (9-0)

14. Hardin-Calhoun (5-4)

14. Princeville (5-4)

6. Brown County (8-1)

6. Orion (8-1)

11. Salt Fork (6-3) First round Oct. 30-31

11. Chi. Douglass (7-2) Second round Nov. 6-7

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Championship Nov. 27

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Second round Nov. 6-7

First round Oct. 30-31

Class 2A playoff bracket 1. Pana (9-0) 16. Georgetown-RF (5-4) 8. Chester (7-2) 9. Lawrenceville (7-2) 4. Villa Grove-Heritage (8-1) 13. Johnston City (6-3) 5. Shelbyville (7-2)

1. Tri-Valley (9-0) 16. West Carroll (5-4) 8. Rushville-Industry (7-2) 9. Rockridge (7-2) 4. Deer Creek-Mackinaw (7-2)

13. West Hancock (6-3) 5. Mendon Unity (7-2)

12. Auburn (6-3)

12. El Paso-Gridley (6-3)

2. Eldorado (9-0)

2. Anna.-Wethesfield (8-1)

15. Athens (5-4)

15. Rkfd. Christian Life (5-4)

7. Maroa-Forsyth (7-2)

7. Fieldcrest (7-2)

10. Westville (7-2)

10. Knoxville (6-3)

3. Sangamon Valley (8-1) 14. Cerro Gordo-Bement (5-4) 6. New Berlin (7-2) 11. Nashville (6-3)

3. Bismarck-Henning (8-1) 14. Momence (5-4) 6. Hall (7-2) 11. Monmouth United (6-3)

October 29, 2015 • Sauk Valley Media

PAGE 9

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 3A playoff bracket 1. St. Joseph-Ogden (9-0)

1. Wilmington (9-0)

16. Fairfield (5-4)

16. Peoria Heights (5-4)

8. Carlinville (7-2)

8. Byron (7-2)

9. Roxana (7-2)

9. Lisle (7-2)

4. Paxton-Buckley-Loda (8-1)

4. Newman (8-1)

13. Williamsville (5-4)

13. Farmington (5-4)

5. Bloomington C.C. (8-1)

5. Bishop McNamara (8-1)

12. DuQuoin (5-4)

12. Mercer County (5-4)

2. North Mac (9-0)

2. Princeton (9-0)

15. Pleasant Plains (5-4)

15. ROWVA (5-4)

7. Marshall (8-1)

7. Chicago Raby (7-2)

10. Tolono Unity (6-3)

10. Chicago Clark (6-3)

3. Newton (9-0)

3. IC Catholic (8-1)

14. Sullivan-Okaw Valley (5-4)

14. Winnebago (5-4)

6. Monticello (8-1)

6. Elmwood-Brimfield (8-1)

11. Wesclin (6-3)

11. DePaul Coll. Prep (6-3))

First round Oct. 30-31

Second round Nov. 6-7

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Championship Nov. 27

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Second round Nov. 6-7

First round Oct. 30-31

Class 4A playoff bracket 1. Belleville Althoff (9-0) 16. Clinton (5-4) 8. Harrisburg (7-2) 9. Quincy Notre Dame (6-3) 4. Rochester (8-1) 13. Alton Marquette (6-3) 5. Murphysboro (8-1)

1. Chicago Phillips (9-0) 16. Genoa-Kingston (5-4) 8. Pontiac (7-2) 9. Johnsburg (7-2) 4. Geneseo (8-1) 13. Wheaton Academy (6-3) 5. Manteno (8-1)

12. Carterville (6-3)

12. Herscher (6-3)

2. Columbia (9-0)

2. Marengo (9-0)

15. Breese Central (5-4) 7. Bethalto Civic (7-2) 10. Breese Mater Dei (6-3) 3. Taylorville (9-0) 14. Mount Zion (6-3)

15. Coal City (5-4) 7. Plano (7-2) 10. Ridgewood (7-2) 3. Rockford Lutheran (9-0) 14. Dixon (6-3)

6. Herrin (8-1)

6. Richmond-Burton (8-1)

11. Richland County (6-3)

11. Elgin St. Edward (6-3)

PAGE 10

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 5A playoff bracket 1. Washington (9-0)

1. Chi. Westinghouse (8-1)

16. Limestone (5-4)

16. Glenbard South (5-4)

8. Metamora (7-2)

8. Tinley Park (7-2)

9. Sterling (7-2)

9. Chicago Payton (7-2)

4. Champaign Central (8-1)

4. Chicago King (7-2)

13. Jacksonville (6-3)

13. Chicago DuSable (6-3)

5. Highland (8-1)

5. St. Laurence (7-2)

12. Decatur Eisenhower (6-3)

12. Rich Central (6-3)

2. Troy Triad (8-1)

2. Chicago Lindbloom (8-1)

15. Mattoon (5-4)

15. Chicago Solorio (5-4)

7. Lincoln-Way West (7-2)

7. Nazareth Academy (7-2)

10. Dunlap (6-3)

10. Sycamore (5-4)

3. Peoria Central (8-1)

3. Joliet Catholic (8-1)

14. Normal U-High (6-3)

14. Vernon Hills (6-3)

6. Centrailia (8-1)

6. Woodstock Marian (7-2)

11. Marion (6-3) First round Oct. 30-31

11. Belvidere (6-3 Second round Nov. 6-7

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Championship Nov. 28

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Second round Nov. 6-7

First round Oct. 30-31

Class 6A playoff bracket 1. Lincoln-Way North (9-0)

1. Montini (9-0)

16. Champ. Centennial (5-4)

16. Wauconda (5-4)

8. Chicago Morgan Park (7-2)

8. Kaneland (6-3)

9. Richards (6-3)

9. Belvidere North (6-3)

4. Thornton (8-1)

4. Chicago Kenwood (7-2)

13. Hinsdale South (6-3) 5. Oak Forest (8-1) 12. Quincy (6-3) 2. Sacred Heart-Griffin (9-0) 15. Shepard (5-4) 7. Peoria Notre Dame (7-2) 10. Normal West (6-3) 3. Lemont (8-1) 14. Chatham Glenwood (5-4) 6. Crete-Monee (7-2) 11. Rock Island (6-3)

13. Deerfield (6-3) 5. DeKalb (7-2) 12. Hampshire (6-3) 2. Prairie Ridge (8-1) 15. Crystal Lake South (5-4) 7. Lake Forest (6-3) 10. Lake Villa Lakes (6-3) 3. Riverside-Brookfield (8-1) 14. St. Ignatius (5-4) 6. Grayslake North (6-3) 11. Chicago Hubbard (6-3)

October 29, 2015 • Sauk Valley Media

PAGE 11

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Class 7A playoff bracket 2. Whitney Young (9-0)

1. Glenbard West (9-0)

31. Niles North (5-4)

32. Moline (5-4)

15. Blue Island Eisenhower (7-2)

16. Chi. Mt. Carmel (7-2)

18. Harlem (7-2)

17. Glenbard North (7-2)

7. Geneva (8-1)

8. Reavis (8-1)

26. Oswego East (6-3)

25. Rolling Meadows (6-3)

10. Glenbrook North (8-1)

9. Rockford Auburn (8-1)

23. Bradley-Bourbonnais (6-3)

24. Hononegah (6-3)

3. Libertyville (9-0)

4. Batavia (8-1)

30. Downers Grove North (5-4)

29. Pekin (5-4)

14. Lincoln-Way East (7-2)

13. Lincoln Park (7-2)

19. Jacobs (7-2)

20. Simeon (7-2)

6. Normal Community (8-1)

5. Cary-Grove (8-1)

27. Schaumburg (5-4)

28. Belleville West (5-4)

11. Maine South (7-2)

12. Lisle Benet (7-2)

22. Plainfield North (6-3) First round Oct. 30-31

21. St. Charles North (7-2) Second round Nov. 6-7

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Championship Nov. 28

Semifinals Nov. 20-21

Quarterfinals Nov. 13-14

Second round Nov. 6-7

First round Oct. 30-31

Class 8A playoff bracket 2. Huntley (9-0)

1. Loyola (9-0)

31. Minooka (5-4)

32. West Aurora (5-4)

15. Oswego (7-2)

16. Stevenson (6-3)

18. Belleville East (6-3) 7. Barrington (8-1)

17. Conant (6-3) 8. Homewood-Flossmoor (8-1)

26. Plainfield South (5-4)

25. O’Fallon (5-4)

10. Niles Notre Dame (8-1)

9. New Trier (8-1)

23. Chicago Marist (5-4)

24. LaGrange Lyons (5-4)

3. Edwardsville (9-0)

4. O.P.-River Forest (8-1)

30. Waubonsie Valley (5-4) 14. Hinsdale Central (7-2) 19. Neuqua Valley (6-3) 6. Naperville Central (8-1) 27. Bolingbrook (5-4) 11. Chicago Curie (8-1) 22. Gurnee Warren (5-4)

29. Fremd (5-4) 13. Palatine (7-2) 20. Sandburg (6-3) 5. Brother Rice (8-1) 28. Bartlett (5-4) 12. South Elgin (8-1) 21. Evanston (6-3)

PAGE 12

Sauk Valley Media • October 29, 2015

FB15 • playoff preview blitz

Sauk Valley Media’s sports staff predicts the state champs Class 1A

Class 2A

Class 3A

Class 4A

Class 5A

Class 6A

Class 7A

Class 8A

Arcola

Pana

Wilmington

Rochester

Nazareth

Montini

Glenbard West

Loyola

Polo

Tri-Valley

Wilmington

Chicago Phillips

Joliet Catholic

Montini

Glenbard West

HomewoodFlossmoor

Ty Reynolds

Polo

Tri-Valley

IC Catholic

Rochester

Washington

Montini

Glenbard West

Loyola

Brian Weidman

Tuscola

Hall

Bishop McNamara

Rochester

Joliet Catholic

Sacred HeartGriffin

Glenbard West

Brother Rice

Brenden West

Polo

Tri-Valley

Newton

Rockford Lutheran

Joliet Catholic

Lincoln-Way North

Glenbrook North

Loyola

Dan Woessner

Polo

Tri-Valley

Wilmington

Rochester

Washington

Montini

Glenbard West

Loyola

Cody Cutter Patrick Mason

Good Luck Area Teams!

TACKLING 8 • 1707 East 4th St., S Sterling BIG PRICES! 815-625-9600

H Hours: Mon.-Thurs.

M Th 9am-7pm, 9 7 Friday F id 9am-6pm, 9 6 Saturday S d 8 8:30am-4pm 30 4

Visit Us Online at www.MajeskiMotors.com

FANTASY FOOTBALL

J.C. TALON: SOMETIMES, GARBAGE TIME CAN BE THE BEST OF TIMES FOR OWNERS

18 months 13

NO Interest with* approved credit

Cam Newton

www.24hrhcsil.com CALL 815-479-5268

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2015 • CHICAGOFOOTBALL.COM

WHO HAS THE EDGE? Bears host Vikings in key NFC North showdown 4

BYE WEEK BRILLIANCE

IN 13 SEASONS AS A HEAD COACH, JOHN FOX IS 10-3 COMING OFF A BYE, AND HE’S WON EVERY GAME SINCE 2007 3

E Y B T POS T N E M S S E ASS EP UP, T S O T S D E WHO NE 10 , D E H S S C E T E R R P T M S I E W H O ’S OW N T H D H C T A W TO AND WHOM

Pace quickly putting his mark on Bears For those who questioned what kind of stamp a 38-year-old general manager could have on a roster when the 60-year-old coach has 14 years of head-coaching experience and two trips to the Super Bowl, Ryan Pace has answered.

The decision to release Jeremiah Ratliff (see Bob LeGere’s column on Page 9) was another example of Pace changing the culture in Halas Hall, even if it comes at the cost of talent.

Sure, Fox had to be involved in a decision like that, but this is Pace making moves for the short- and long-term success of righting a Bears ship that sunk last year.

Look at the defense. When the Bears play the Vikings on Sunday, zero of the 11 starters from last year’s opener will be on the field when the game begins – assuming Shea McClellin (knee) is out and Lamarr Houston didn’t suddenly earn a starting job.

And that’s how it should be.

That 2014 defense was historically bad, following up another historically bad group the year

BEARS INSIDER

By KEVIN

FISHBAIN

kfishbain@chicagofootball.com @kfishbain

before. But to get this kind of turnover, Pace had to have the confidence in not re-signing legends Charles Tillman and Lance Briggs, cutting long-time corner Tim Jennings and then, most recently, parting ways with the volatile Ratliff.

The old guard is gone, the former core of the locker room has left Halas Hall. Matt Forte is in the last year of his contract.

Although we expect Jay Cutler to

be back next season, that’s still anyone’s guess.

Other Bears signed in the Phil Emery regime could certainly be in the “cap casualty” conversation, like Lamarr Houston, Jermon Bushrod and Willie Young.

Martellus Bennett certainly will want a new contract, and then what’s left?

We thought Kyle Fuller would be part of this rebuild, but the way he has played in the first six games, it’s hard to project him as a starting cornerback for the future. We still need to see more of Christian Jones at linebacker. Is Kyle Long the only Emery acquisition we can confidently assume is part of the Bears’ future?

Maybe Alshon Jeffery?

If we’ve learned anything since the day Pace traded Brandon Marshall, he has no fear. Players we once thought would be part of the rebuild could be cut or traded for a sixth-round pick the way things have gone, and that’s not a bad thing for what matters most to the Bears’ organization:

gaining sustained success.

Pace knows the importance of homegrown talent and building a roster through the draft. What we didn’t necessarily expect was how much this roster would turn over and how quickly he could accomplish it while also keeping a gameday roster that allows Fox, Vic Fangio and Adam Gase to be competitive.

What we have gleaned is the GM will do whatever it takes, popular or not, competitive or not, to build the roster he thinks can bring a winner back to Chicago. We don’t even know if that roster, whenever it’s ready, will be good enough to win the division, but at least it’ll match his vision.

In a town that questions its decision makers in every sport, Pace has made some bold moves.

One (signing Ray McDonald) backfired, but otherwise, he’s shown an assertion and confidence necessary for the job, leaving the ultimate question for the Bears’ architect: What’s next?

BY THE

NUMB3RS

10-3

John Fox’s record coming off of bye weeks in his 13 seasons as a head coach.

(See The List on Page 3 for a look at his most recent results after byes).

66-40-2

The Bears all-time record vs. the Vikings dating to 1961, when Minnesota first entered the league.

7-3

Bears record vs. Minnesota since 2010, although the Vikings have won two of the past three and three of five.

Chicago Football Weekly is produced by Shaw Media, the Daily Herald Media Group and the Chicago Sun-Times in partnership with other Illinois daily newspapers.

FOOTBALL FANS BID ON AUTOGRAPHS, SPORTS CARDS & COLLECTIBLES

d i B d n a m o tineAuction.c

s i r P . w w w o t Go

www.PristineAuction.com

DAILY AUCTIONS All Daily Auctions Start at $1 with No Reserve Prices

Authenticity is everything!

All autographed items in our auction include leading industry authentication.

adno=0334485

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

2

2014

BEAT CARDINALS, 41-20

John Fox’s Broncos had an early bye in Week Four and went into it after a tough 26-20 overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks

MISSED NEXT GAME

John Fox was hospitalized during the 2013 bye week and missed the next four games. Jack Del Rio served as interim head coach, and the Broncos won their first two games out of the bye.

BEAT SAINTS, 34-14

John Fox’s second season with the Broncos got off to a rocky start. With Peyton Manning at quarterback for the first time with Denver, the Broncos went into the bye 3-3. However, Denver dominated after the bye week, beating the Saints 34-14. The Broncos went on to win the rest of their regular season games, finishing with a 13-3 record.

207 S. BUTLER NELSON, IL 815-251-4633 Closed Mondays Serving Lunch Specials Daily from 10am - 2pm Kitchen Open 10am - 9pm

Can’t watch your favorite football team?

We have the NFL Sunday Ticket and 5 TVs!

Daily Specials

2011 saw John Fox move to Denver after his contract was not renewed in Carolina following the 2010 season. The Broncos in John Fox’s first season struggled in their first five games, going 1-4 heading into the Week Six bye.

In Week Seven, the Broncos beat the Dolphins 18-15 in OT. Denver then went on to win six of its next seven games and, despite

BEAT WASHINGTON, 20-17

The 2009 Panthers had an early bye in Week Four, and they sorely needed a break after starting the season 0-3. Fox’s teams continued their ability to win after the bye week, however, beating Washington, 20-17. They went 8-5 overall after the bye to finish at 8-8, narrowly missing out on a Wild Card spot.

FFall is Here

See us for all your plumbing & heating needs Residential • Commercial • Farm • Industrial

TUESDAY (5PM-9PM)

Our Famous Tacos WEDNESDAY

Wacky Burgers THURSDAY

Chicken & Spaghetti FRIDAY

Fish Specials - Cod, Swai,Tilapia SATURDAY

Bloody Mary & Bellini Bar On Sundays

BEAT DOLPHINS, 18-15 (OT)

BEAT 49ERS, 23-20

2010 was Fox’s last year in Carolina as the Panthers sputtered to a 2-14 record. The Panthers were 0-5 heading into their Week Six bye and played the San Francisco 49ers in Week Seven.

They went on to win 23-20 for their first win of the season and the only one until Week 15.

2009

H. Rick Bamman - Shaw Media

2011

Sometimes, all a team needs is a break. With the Chicago Bears coming out of their bye, we took a look at how John Fox-coached teams fared after their bye week.

He has shown success in each of the recent seasons, having won each game since 2007. In 13 seasons as a head coach, Fox is 10-3 in the week after the bye.

2012

BEN GARTLAND

bgartland@chicagofootball.com @BenG_Sports

2013

By

in a Super Bowl rematch. The 2-1 Broncos, however, came out of the bye with a 41-20 home win over the Cardinals and went on to win their next three games as well. Coming off the emotional loss, this was one of Fox’s stronger teams coming out of the bye week. The Broncos finished the season with a 12-4 record and an AFC West title.

2010

RESULTS OF FOX-COACHED TEAMS AFTER BYE WEEKS

Prime Rib Night SUNDAY (9AM-10PM)

Sausage Gravy & Biscuits Try Our Homemade Soups!

www.therailsidebarandgrill.com

Family Owned & Operated Since 1967

WE OFFER SERVICES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO…

Sewer Rodding • Sewer Televising & Steaming • Franklin Livestock Waterers • Site Plumbing Backflow Prevention & Maintenance • Garbage Disposals • Bathroom Remodels Drainfields & Septics • Backhoe • Boilers • KOHLER Products • Water Heaters • Furnaces Goulds Jet Pumps • Submersible Water Pumps • Sump Pumps • Sewage Pumps Sewer Line Repairs • Water Service Repairs • Underground Boring • Air Conditioningg IL Li Licensed 055-000988

502 IL Rt. 2, Dixon • 815-284-2044

3 CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

losing the last three, won the AFC West. This year featured the emergence of Tim Tebow at quarterback, bolstered by a strong defense that sent the Broncos to the AFC Divisional Round after a win against Pittsburgh in the Wild Card.

John Fox

GAME PREVIEW WK 8

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

4

Vikings

VS.

Bears

GAMEDAY: NOON SUNDAY, NOV. 1 / SOLDIER FIELD, CHICAGO By

KEVIN FISHBAIN

Alshon Jeffery

kfishbain@chicagofootball.com @kfishbain

BEARS RUSHING OFFENSE vs VIKINGS RUN DEFENSE

This is an interesting matchup. As good as the Vikings are in the front seven, they haven’t been that stout against the run, giving up 4.48 yards per carry.

But it’s been a Jekyll and Hyde act for that unit. In its two losses, Minnesota has allowed 374 rushing yards at a clip of 5.9 yards per carry. In their four wins, the Vikings are holding teams to 65.5 rushing yards a game at 3.3 yards a carry. The Vikings are fast and young at linebacker with Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks, keeping backs from getting past the second level. We know the Bears want to run the ball, but they haven’t been effective of late.

Matt Forte is averaging 3.5 yards per carry in his past three games. Getting Forte or Jeremy Langford around the edge, if the Vikings can’t set it, could allow the rushing attack to create some chunk plays. Forte was very effective vs. the Vikings at Soldier Field last season (26 carries for 117 yards). Getting a fresh Forte after the bye and a healthier offensive line should help a run game that will still season. Mike Zimmer’s defense try to be the engine of the of- will be aggressive and allow the D-line to go upfield after fense.

EDGE BEARS Jay Cutler and a Bears’ O-line that has mostly stood tall despite shake-ups in the lineup.

BEARS PASSING Opposing quarterbacks have OFFENSE vs VIKINGS an 89.6 rating against Minnesota this season, completing 63.2 PASS DEFENSE The Vikings’ front manhan- percent of passes. Cutler was very good against the Vikings’ dled the Lions’ offensive line and Matthew Stafford last week secondary that decided to rely on its man coverage in Chicato the tune of 13 quarterback go last year, but couldn’t get hits and four sacks. Everson anything going in the season Griffen leads the way with finale. This week, he’ll have a 12 QB hits and 4.5 sacks this

H. Rick Bamman - Shaw Media

healthier Alshon Jeffery, Eddie Royal and Martellus Bennett, but that is a young, physical secondary, led by Xavier Rhodes. Safety Harrison Smith is a ballhawk at safety, roving the middle of the field. Like the other matchup when the Bears have the ball, this is a tough one to determine a side, as Cutler has found a way to be productive in each of his games this season. We’ll side with Zimmer’s group because of that pass rush.

EDGE VIKINGS

VIKINGS RUSHING OFFENSE vs BEARS RUN DEFENSE

Adrian Peterson has gained more than 100 yards against the Bears in each of his past four meetings. Consistency has been an issue this season, though. Still, as he showed in two big runs against Detroit, Peterson’s size/strength/speed combination is unparalleled in this league, and the Vikings will use jumbo sets to do everything possible to get him out in the open field. The Vikings

lead the league in run plays up the middle, and the Bears are 28th in the league, allowing 5.5 yards per carry up the gut, where they’ll be without Jeremiah Ratliff. It’s important for Eddie Goldman to win at the snap against Joe Berger to disrupt Peterson any way possible. Vic Fangio’s defense has done a good job of preventing the big play, giving up only two runs of 20 yards or more this season. The problem – besides the obvious one of facing Peterson – is doing so

Adrian Peterson

THIS WEEK IN THE NFL

AP photo

DOLPHINS @ PATRIOTS

GIANTS @ SAINTS

7:25 p.m. Thursday, CBS

Noon Sunday, FOX

Dan Campbell’s Fins 82, AFC South foes 36. Ultimate measuring stick comes in Foxboro.

Saints ‘D’ with nine combined sacks in consecutive wins; ‘D,’ special teams pick up first-place Big Blue.

LIONS @ CHIEFS 8:30 a.m. Sunday in London, FOX AP photo

with Christian Jones at inside linebacker and potentially a rotation of Jonathan Anderson and LaRoy Reynolds, if Shea McClellin is still out. That group has not made enough impact plays.

EDGE VIKINGS

VIKINGS PASSING OFFENSE vs BEARS PASS DEFENSE

We’ve reached the ultimate matchup between the weak points on each team. Teddy Bridgewater has been slow to take that second-year leap with only five touchdown passes and four interceptions. The Vikings’ passing offense is 30th in the league in yards per game, but it has received a boost from rookie Stefon Diggs the past three weeks. Bridgewater’s ability to move the pocket combined with the blow-the-top-off duo of Diggs and Mike Wallace will test a Bears secondary that gave up too many downfield plays in its loss to Detroit. That speed element will challenge the Bears’ safeties to stay disciplined, and the Bears would get a big boost if Antrel Rolle can return. The offensive line is not Minnesota’s strong suit, as the Vikings have allowed 19 sacks, which is second-most among teams that have played six games. Pernell

McPhee is no secret after his sizzling start, and opponents will start doubling him more, putting the onus on Sam Acho, Willie Young and Lamarr Houston to start making plays off the opposite edge. Although the Vikings have question marks in their passing game, the Bears have allowed opposing QBs to rack up a 108.6 rating. Their DBs have zero interceptions. Slight advantage to Bridgewater.

EDGE VIKINGS

SUNDAY’S OVERALL EDGE

Returning home coming off a bye should be an advantage for Chicago, which hasn’t lost to Minnesota at Soldier Field since 2007. The Vikings certainly have a more talented defense, one that is fifth in the league on third down, but the Bears are eighth converting third down themselves. The difference could come in the red zone, where both teams struggle on offense, but Minnesota has the fourth-best defense inside the 20. The Bears’ staff could certainly have a game plan on both sides of the ball to get a win, and we’ve seen solid schemes all season long, but the matchup on paper favors the Vikings.

EDGE VIKINGS

Kansas City changed its O-line and notched desperate win; can Detroit coaching changes spur similar results?

CHARGERS @ RAVENS

Top players

OFFENSE / QB Teddy Bridgewater, RB Adrian Peterson, WR Stefon Diggs, TE Kyle Rudolph, LT Matt Kalil DEFENSE / DE Everson Griffen, DT Linval Joseph, LB Anthony Barr, CB Xavier Rhodes, S Harrison Smith

Schemes

OFFENSE / It’s a run-first scheme, supplemented by play-action. Peterson is the NFL’s fourth-leading rusher, but he’s been mostly bottled up in consecutive wins. Coming off his first 300-yard passing day of 2015, Bridgewater is accurate with underrated mobility. Diggs has great quickness and Bridgewater’s trust.

DEFENSE / Mike Zimmer prefers press coverage and varied blitz packages. After a poor first quarter in Detroit, Zimmer unleashed the pressure, resulting in seven sacks and 13 QB hits of Matthew Stafford. Griffen and Barr are two of the game’s more physically gifted players. Smith does it all on the back end, and the lengthy and aggressive Rhodes has become a terrific cover corner.

Weaknesses Down three starters from a season ago, the O-line has struggled to open holes for Peterson and consistently protect Bridgewater, who has a turnover in five of six starts.

Last time they met

12/28/2014: The Vikings earned their only divisional win, 13-9, in Marc Trestman’s final game, an uninspired Bears effort with eight penalties and only 12 first downs.

Noon Sunday, CBS

49ERS @ RAMS Noon Sunday, FOX Niners’ problems run deeper than Kaepernick; young and rugged Rams ready to challenge for NFC West crown?

BUCCANEERS @ FALCONS Noon Sunday, FOX

Hard to believe this is two of AFC’s worst teams squaring off near halfway point.

Latest loss ‘scars’ Lovie, drops Bucs ‘D’ into tie with Bears for worst scoring unit; Win’s a win for Falcons.

CARDINALS @ BROWNS

JETS @ RAIDERS

Noon Sunday, FOX

3:05 p.m. Sunday, CBS

Manziel’s Week Eight plate: prepare to start versus 5-2 Cardinals, meet with NFL about legal run-in.

Cooper visits Revis Island. Jets face difficult West Coast jaunt after falling short in Foxboro.

VIKINGS @ BEARS

SEAHAWKS @ COWBOYS

Noon Sunday, FOX Adrian Peterson piled up 211 rushing yards in his last meeting with Bears, Week 12 in 2013.

BENGALS @ STEELERS Noon Sunday, CBS 2-2 without Big Ben, Steelers should welcome back Roethlisberger in time for divisional showdown with undefeated, rested Bengals.

TITANS @ TEXANS Noon Sunday, CBS Texans lose pride, Arian Foster; Mettenberger-led Titans can’t find answer in another one-possession loss.

3:25 p.m. Sunday, FOX Seattle must avoid looking ahead to Arizona; Jerry reaches new low by enabling Greg Hardy.

PACKERS @ BRONCOS 7:30 p.m. Sunday, NBC Second meeting between Rodgers-Manning; first battle of 6-0 clubs since Patriots beat Colts in 2007.

COLTS @ PANTHERS 7:30 p.m. Monday, ESPN Former No. 1 overall pick leading undefeated team is Cam Newton. Big shakeup could be on horizon for Andrew Luck’s Colts.

• The Bills, Jaguars, Eagles and Washington are on bye weeks.

CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

Lamar Miller

5

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

6

BEARS

VS.

VIKINGS STAFF PREDICTIONS

Wednesday spread: Bears +1.5

Hub

Kevin

Arthur

Nate

Bob

ChicagoFootball.com

ChicagoFootball.com

ChicagoFootball.com

ChicagoFootball.com

Daily Herald

Bears 19 Vikings 27 Vikings are hitting their stride while Bears appear to be treading water and may be looking for a life preserver.

Bears 20 Vikings 19 Healthier offense plus Fox, Fangio, Gase with extra prep time helps pull off the upset.

Bears 20 Vikings 23 Chicago’s thin D-line and green ILB corps in for a long day against AP.

Bears 17 Vikings 24 Hard to see Bears scoring enough on this stout ‘D’ to make up for what AP will do.

Bears 23 Vikings 27 The Bears’ D-line was suspect before it lost Ego Ferguson and Jeremiah Ratliff.

Season Record: 2-4 Versus Spread: 2-3-1

Season Record: 3-3 Versus Spread: 3-2-1

Season Record: 2-4 Versus Spread: 3-1-2

Season Record: 3-3 Versus Spread: 4-1-1

Season Record: 4-2 Versus Spread: 5-0-1

Jon

Adam

Jay

Kyle

Wes

Northwest Herald

Chicago Sun-Times

Rockford Register-Star

Kankakee Daily Journal

Peoria Journal Star

Bears 28 Vikings 24 Vikings look better on paper, but two of those wins (and a Bears loss) came against Detroit.

Bears 23 Vikings 21 John Fox’s history says he’s great after the bye week. That’ll continue this year.

Bears 24 Vikings 30 Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater against the Bears’ DBs will be the deciding matchup in this one.

Bears 28 Vikings 27 The Bears should make strides on offense with the unit finally getting close to full strength.

Bears 35 Vikings 27 Week off gives Chicago a leg up. With Jay Cutler growing more comfortable, the Bears offense is on point.

Season Record: 3-3 Versus Spread: 3-2-1

Season Record: 2-4 Versus Spread: 2-2-2

Season Record: 5-1 Versus Spread: 4-1-1

Season Record: 3-3 Versus Spread: 3-2-1

Season Record: 3-3 Versus Spread: 4-1-1

FISHBAIN

ARKUSH

STYF

JAHNS

ARKUSH

LEGERE

ATKINS

TAFT

NABORS

HUETT

$75999

20.2 CU. FT. UPRIGHT FREEZER

CHECK OUT OUR NEW ARRIVALS!!

s a g Ve ON THE

VIDEO GAMING

is now at K’s Korners!

FOOTBALL SPECIAL $ 1.50 Domestics

R E N KOR Bucket Special: 6 for $12 ALL DAY SUNDAY, 7-10PM ON MON. & THURS.

All Day, Every Day

Book your next party in the Udder Room!

13030 G Galt lt Rd, Rd Sterling St li • 815-626-2988

MOSSY OAK

$69999

16.0 CU. FT. CHEST FREEZER

LAYAWAY AVAILABLE LOCK IN THESE PRICES TODAY • Appliances • TV’s • Mattresses • Hot Tubs

2400 N. Locust St. Sterling, IL

815.625.8529

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 3pm

Are You Suffering From Neuropathy, Knee or Shoulder

PAIN?

Which of Your Conditions Can Benefit the Most Using This Therapy?

Joint Pain Shoulder Pain Knee Pain

Osteoarthritis Plantar Fascitis Neuropathy

FIND OUT IF REGENERATIVE MEDICINE IS RIGHT FOR YOU! Regenerative medicine can use stem cells to regenerate and repair tissues in your body that are damaged due to age, disease and congenital defects. Stem cells have the power to go to these damaged areas and generate new cells and tissues by performing a repair and renewal process.

HUB ARKUSH CHICAGO BEARS Radio Announcer 1987 – 2004 NFL SIDELINE REPORTER

Hi, I’m HUB ARKUSH, General Manager of Chicago Football. I was a long-time sufferer of chronic knee pain in both knees. I was in constant pain and had tried just about everything to find relief. After receiving treatment, I can now say I am feeling better than ever.

GM CHICAGO FOOTBALL

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION CALL TODAY 844-755-PAIN (7246)

LOCATIONS ACROSS CHICAGOLAND • Chicago • Crystal Lake • Aurora • Gurnee www.StemCellTherapyForPain.com Due to Federal Law some exclusions may apply. Does not include exam and neccessary x-rays. Medicare and insurance guidelines followed.

CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

STEM CELL THERAPY

7

READ OPTIONS

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

8

Lots of praise for Bears safety Adrian Amos Adrian Amos

By ADAM

JAHNS

ajahns@suntimes.com @adamjahns Whether he meant to do it or not, Bears defensive backs coach Ed Donatell raised expectations for Adrian Amos when he met the media last week.

Donatell’s words were measured when talking about second-year cornerback Kyle Fuller, but he described Amos’ play as “rare” for a first-year player.

It comes after Amos handled the communication responsibilities in the secondary with Antrel Rolle out the past two weeks with a sprained right ankle.

“Amos has been just so steady and mature beyond his years,” Donatell said.

THE WAY WE HEAR IT Lions firings the tip of the iceberg?

Matthew Apgar - Shaw Media

“He’s been that way 24/7 in everything that he does and in every meeting. He’s very calm.

“You can see he was listening to Antrel.

You can tell that when Antrel went out, there wasn’t as big of a drop-off in communication as there might have been. There was some drop-off, but Amos is a real student of the game and very focused and composed.”

There still are 10 games left for Amos, a

fifth-round pick, to struggle and succeed, but Donatell’s words should be held in high regard. He has 24 years of NFL coaching experience, including solid runs as the defensive coordinator for the Packers (2000-03) and Falcons (2004-06).

Donatell has coached plenty of Pro Bowl defensive backs over his career: Darren Sharper, DeAngelo Hall, Brian Dawkins, Champ Bailey, Dashon Goldson, Carlos Rodgers, Eric Reid and Donte Whitner. “[Amos is] more on the rare side of a guy to come in and to play as consistent and tough,” Donatell said. “Just very consistent.”

Adding a pass rusher is starting to look like a top priority for the Bears, whether in free agency or the draft.

But outside linebackers Willie Young and Lamarr Houston, two free-agents signed by the old regime, can change that.

A better pass rush starts with them.

In the first six weeks, Houston and

Young combined for two sacks, five quarterback hits and two tackles for loss, according to coach reviews. Pernell McPhee, meanwhile, has four sacks, 11 quarterback hits and six tackles for loss.

Here’s thinking that the Bears are thinking about making a change at guard with Patrick Omameh returning to health after toughing out an ankle injury against the Raiders.

Line coach Dave Magazu said last week that Omameh, a starter for the Buccaneers last season, practiced some before taking off for the bye week. He could replace right guard Vladimir Ducasse, who continues to have erratic performances.

“He’s a very intelligent guy,” Magazu said of Omameh. “I think he has good movement skills. You have to be smart to play up front, and that he is. He came in and picked things up extremely quick.

He’s also now trying to help some of the younger guys. He brings a lot of positive things.”

BY HUB ARKUSH

also picked as preseason playoff hopefuls and then fired Joe Philibin after a 1-3 start.

When a team many picked as The Lions might not be quite as a playoff contender gets off to talented as the Dolphins, but they a 1-6 start and then starts firing are close. assistant coaches, it’s not hard Caldwell is probably hoping to to project the head coach might have moved to the top of the firing make his team better by tinkering with his offensive staff much watch list. like the Ravens did in 2012, firing There had been no indications offensive coordinator Cam Camuntil last Monday that Jim Calderon at midseason and handing well was in jeopardy in Detroit, particularly after taking the Lions the play-calling over to Caldwell before going on to win Super Bowl to the playoffs last year with 11 XLVII. wins.

Early reports are that Caldwell But after firing his offensive will not be taking over the offense coordinator Joe Lombardi – yes, himself and hopes that his former he is in fact Vince’s grandson – quarterbacks coach and new coand head and assistant offensive line coaches, Jeremiah Washburn ordinator, Jim Bob Cooter, can reand Arlington Heights native Terry suscitate the Lions’ season much like Caldwell did in Baltimore a few Heffernan this week, Caldwell seasons a ago. definitely has put himself on the hot seat.

Perhaps it will work, but Cooter It is hard to ignore the impact might engender more confidence interim head coach Dan Campbell if his own personal project, Matis having in Miami the past couple thew Stafford, wasn’t having one weeks after the Dolphins were of his worst years in the league.

If the Lions don’t rebound quickly, we’re hearing Caldwell could be at the top of the coaching bubble come the end of the ’15 season.

Kaepernick the answer or problem in San Francisco?

The only thing that’s certain in San Francisco these days is that Colin Kaepernick no longer vaguely resembles the version of himself that led the 49ers to the Super Bowl just three seasons ago.

Kaepernick began to decline early last season but clearly has taken a huge step backward since the departures of head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman following last season.

Now there are reports leaking out of San Francisco that Kaepernick was the target of at least one veteran teammate’s scorn a few weeks back in a players-only meeting that might have turned confrontational.

This may sound familiar to some Bears fans who continue

Colin Kaepernick AP photo

to seek fault with Jay Cutler, as the reports out of the Niners locker room are that it’s not that Kaepernick isn’t liked, – he has his supporters – the problem is that he tends to be a loner, doesn’t interact often or well with many teammates and as such struggles to lead his team.

Kaepernick apparently is a loner with plenty of competitive spirit.

He wants to win, but he chooses to try and lead with his play rather

than words or emotion. When a player is playing poorly and not talking, he’s not likely to inspire great confidence in his teammates.

Niners head coach Jim Tomsula has been downright Lovie Smith-esque in intoning, “Colin is our quarterback, and there are no plans to make a change.”

Right now, a healthy offensive line and a loosening up of the extremely conservative play-calling of new offensive coordinator Geep Chryst appear to be exactly what the doctor should be ordering.

Could Mallett be the end of Bill O’Brien in Houston?

Bill O’Brien and his Houston Texans might have been the stars of HBO’s 2015 edition of “Hard Knocks,” but so far, the regular season has been little more than hard knocks on the Texans.

In case you haven’t heard, Ryan Mallett, who has been one half

Good riddance to Jeremiah Ratliff.

That was the message from Bears general manager Ryan Pace last week to the four-time Pro Bowl nose tackle whose skills have diminished in inverse proportion to his propensity to flip out.

At 34, Ratliff still has enough talent left for the Bears to have considered him their best defensive lineman until he proved to be more trouble than he was worth. Pace decided Ratliff brought too much crazy to the table to offset the D-line help he was expected to provide.

A team trying to change the culture in the locker room and on the field doesn’t need the kind of aberrant behavior that Ratliff displayed last week in the runup to his release.

Pace chose not to address the issue publicly, releasing a statement through the team that read, “We felt moving forward without Jeremiah was in the best interest of our team. We appreciate his contributions and wish him well.”

OPINION

By BOB

Because of that and coach John Fox’s reluctance to shed additional light on the topic, there are differing reports on what led to Ratliff’s erratic and frightening behavior. At one point, Lake Forest police were called to Halas Hall as a precaution.

“That’s why you have security,” said Fox, who low-keyed the incident on Monday when the Bears returned to practice

THE WAY WE HEAR IT of O’Brien’s quarterback dilemma dating back to the beginning of the reality TV show, missed the Texans’ team charter to Miami last week and had to fly commercial to get to Miami in time for the game.

Multiple reports have suggested that head coach O’Brien wanted to cut Mallett on the spot, but general manager Rick Smith stepped in and refused to let O’Brien make the move. On Tuesday, the Texans did release Mallett, but we don’t know ultimately how it went down.

O’Brien did a more-than-respectable job at Penn State as the successor to Joe Paterno, trying to clean up the mess Paterno left behind. And in his rookie campaign with the Texans last season, he guided them to a 9-7 record. But Houston has struggled mightily this year with no good choice at quarterback between Brian Hoyer and Mallett, while Mallett continued to offer distractions off the field.

O’Brien wanted to send a mes-

LeGERE

rlegere@dailyherald.com @BobLeGere

after a four-day break in their off week. “That’s why things are in place. Sometimes if you think you need that, that’s what you do for the safety of your building.”

The 34-year-old Ratliff either arrived at the Bears’ facility in no shape to practice because he had been drinking or he was aggravated by the medical staff’s treatment of the neck injury he suffered near the end of the Week Six loss to the Lions.

The reason why Ratliff went off isn’t important. The fact that a player who was seen as a leader did so at all is what matters.

Whatever set the volatile Ratliff off, it led to a verbal altercation with Pace near the exit/entrance to Halas Hall, as Ratliff sat in his truck. Multiple members of the Bears’ security staff monitored the animated discussion.

That Pace and Fox believe the Bears are better off without their best defensive lineman illustrates what a distraction and divisive force Ratliff had become. This is a team that began the season without much

Jeremiah Ratliff H. Rick Bamman - Shaw Media

quality depth along the defensive line and has lost starter Ego Ferguson and backup Cornelius Washington to season-ending injuries.

Fox claims to be no more concerned about the D-line than any other area on his team, but he’s not very convincing.

“Everything’s concerning,” Fox said. “We haven’t been healthy all season. We lost our quarterback for a game and

a half. We’ve been through a variety of offensive linemen, a variety of receivers. I like where we are right now as far as our depth and the people we have available.”

The hope is that free agent Ziggy Hood can step in soon after recovering from a foot injury suffered in early September. He initially was placed on injured reserve but then released.

Hood has never performed up to his first-round draft status (32nd overall in 2009), but he’ll be a welcome addition as soon as he’s 100 percent.

“He’s got a lot of skins on the wall,” Fox said. “He’s played a lot in this league at a high level.

I [evaluated] him coming out [of college] way back when he was a rookie. Once healthy – I think he’s pretty far along in that process – I think he’s a front-line defensive lineman.”

More importantly, he’s not Jeremiah Ratliff.

Greg Hardy, take notice. Even talented players can wear out their welcome when they bury the crazy meter.

BY HUB ARKUSH

sage to his locker room that regardless of who you are, bad acts off the field that might reflect poorly on the team will not be tolerated, and it appeared that was delayed, as his GM originally had chopped him off at the knees.

Now come reports from various places that O’Brien could be a very popular, high-profile option for a number of big-time college programs that are likely to have openings and could come calling at the end of the college season.

Remember how Nick Saban left the Dolphins after his second season to head for Alabama, and Bobby Petrino deserted the Falcons to go to Arkansas?

Even though Mallett was eventually released, it’s impossible not to wonder if Smith will be able to keep O’Brien around. Will the head coach be willing to stay if he thinks his GM doesn’t have his back and knowing there will be very good jobs to be had?

Has Jerry Jones gone off the reservation in Dallas?

By assembling a roster that included Dez Bryant, Joseph Randle, Rolando McClain and Josh Brent (since retired) this offseason, and then adding Greg Hardy and Randy Gregory, Jerry Jones put together a Cowboys club with more character questions in its locker room and off-the-field issues than the characters of “Breaking Bad.” Chief among the concerns had to be Hardy, who celebrated his employment with his new club with inappropriate remarks about the Twin Towers and Tom Brady’s wife, among others. That had to give Jones and his club fair warning that Hardy is a disaster waiting to happen.

Things began to boil over last week when Hardy reportedly failed to appear for practice on the Thursday before the Giants game.

The Cowboys eventually reported him as out ill after they called

Greg Hardy AP photo

around to find him.

Hardy then had an outburst on the field last Sunday after the Cowboys allowed a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by former Cowboy Dwayne Harris, confronting several teammates, getting into a shouting match with Bryant, who was trying to calm him down, and then swiping at the clipboard of special teams coach Rich Bisaccia, which led to

Bisaccia shoving him out of the huddle.

This is a player who missed all of last season and the first four games of this season after being found guilty by a North Carolina judge of extremely violent behavior against a girlfriend, even though the verdict was eventually vacated by a nuance of North Carolina state law.

Jones’ response to Hardy’s behavior was to say he had no problem with it and, “As a matter of fact, I would encourage it.”

Jones added that Hardy is “one of the real leaders on this team. ...

He earns it with the respect from all of his teammates. That’s the kind of thing that inspires.”

The obvious questions are, exactly what kinds of things is Hardy inspiring, and how much longer is Jones going to ignore the hand grenade he’s thrown in the middle of his own locker room before it blows up in his face?

9 CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

Ratliff gone, and Bears’ defensive line still thin

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

10

bye the

By

KEVIN FISHBAIN & ARTHUR ARKUSH

report

Chicago Football analyzes the Bears as they embark on final 10 games of season Jeremy Langford

I

t wouldn’t have been difficult to predict a 2-4 Bears team at the bye with 10 games to go, but how they got there was anything but expected. The two wins were fourth-quarter comeback victories, and one of the four losses was a wild one to the previously winless Lions.

We’ve seen flashes of what this coaching staff can do with this personnel, and we’ve also seen how much the Bears are still behind other teams in terms of talent.

Chicago Football’s Bears reporters Kevin Fishbain and Arthur Arkush look back at who has impressed for each unit, who needs to step up in the final two months of the season and one player to watch as the Bears head into the final 10 games of John Fox’s first season.

OFFENSE Who has impressed the most?

QB Jay Cutler

Yes, he’s had his bad interceptions and a handful of missed opportunities to make big plays with poor throws, but Cutler has taken to this offense well. It’s no coincidence that the worst the offense has looked was in the six quarters with Jimmy Clausen under center. Cutler has seven touchdown passes and a 114.0 passer rating on third down. We’re used to seeing some of the “how did he do that?” throws, like the touchdown to Marquess Wilson in Kansas City, and the ability to move the pocket, extend the play and hit an open receiver, but what’s been really key for Cutler is not letting bad plays or interceptions derail his game, as seen in the win over Oakland. He can still play better and should get help from having Alshon Jeffery and Eddie Royal healthy, and maybe a more stable offensive line that can do a more consistent job blocking for Matt Forte. But through six games – even though he only played in 4.5 of them – Cutler has been the

most impressive player on Adam Gase’s offense.

Who needs to step up?

TE Martellus Bennett

We could also touch on the right guard situation, where Vladimir Ducasse leads the team in penalties, but we’ll stick with someone we know will be the starter the rest of the season.

It’s admittedly nitpicking to put the Bears’ leading receiver (34 catches for 292 yards) in this category, but Bennett can provide more for the offense. He had crucial drops in games against Kansas City and Detroit, though the Chiefs’ defense keyed on Bennett throughout.

Bennett has caught 64 percent of his 53 targets – during his career year in 2014, the tight end had a 70-percent catch rate. Jeffery and Royal returning to the lineup should definitely help Bennett, who continues to show how tough he is, playing through nicks and bruises. His run blocking has been very good, and he has missed only 11 snaps, but Bennett has the capability to put up bigger plays in the passing game.

Who is a player to watch?

RB Jeremy Langford

The rookie has played in 41 snaps through six games – 9.4 percent.

That rate should increase with Jacquizz Rodgers on injured reserve and with Langford getting more comfortable in an NFL offense. Certainly, the Bears are in no hurry to take Forte off the field, but as they continue to try to find wrinkles in the offense, especially involving the speed element, that’s where Langford can help, either as a runner spelling Forte or a receiver split out wide. As the season wears on and if the Bears find themselves out of the playoff hunt, that will increase the focus on Langford, who could be the future of the Bears’ backfield if Forte does not return.

DEFENSE Who has impressed the most?

OLB Pernell McPhee

As the team’s highest-paid defender, McPhee should be the most impressive, yet it’s fair to say he’s exceeded most expectations through his contributions on the field and in the locker room.

A full-time starter for the first time, the 26-year-old has logged 301 defensive snaps and leads Chicago in sacks (four), QB hurries (21) and QB hits (seven).

As impressive as he’s been rushing the passer, McPhee’s two biggest plays – turning points in the Bears’ two wins

– haven’t included harassing QBs. His third-down run stuff on Oakland’s final offensive series and a blocked field goal to start Chicago’s rally in Kansas City illustrate not only McPhee’s versatility but the way he elevates his teammates.

McPhee’s impassioned speech the night before Chicago’s first victory and his tireless work habits have set the tone for Vic Fangio’s defense. There’s still room for growth, as a rouging-the-passer penalty late in Detroit was incredibly costly, but McPhee has been everything Ryan Pace could have hoped for and more as his first free-agent signee.

Who needs to step up?

CB Kyle Fuller

The second-year corner has been more liability than the defensive cornerstone he was tabbed as

by John Fox in February. Not only has Fuller been beaten for four touchdowns and watched journeyman Tracy Porter take on a shadow role Fuller held last season, but the ball skills and instincts that excited so many early in his rookie campaign have seemingly disappeared.

As Porter and young defensive back Adrian Amos have made giant strides under Fangio and defensive backs coach Ed Donatell, Fuller appears to have regressed. The staff has admitted his confidence and film study must improve, and maybe that’s what it’ll take for Fuller to rediscover the awareness and discipline required when Fangio asks his corners to survive on an island. Fuller’s final 10 games will help determine whether Chicago has a young cornerback worth building around or a position in dire need of overhaul.

Jones has all the physical tools needed to become an impact defender in the middle of the Bears defense for years to come. Unlike fellow starter Shea McClellin, he’s also under contract at a team-friendly salary through 2016. But Chicago needs Jones to parlay his unique size and speed into impact plays, which have been missing, save for one tackle for loss and two passes defensed. Jones has flashed in coverage but needs to finish on plays, plus get off blocks and become more of a force when attacking downhill. He’s just 24 with five career starts as a 3-4 inside ’backer, thus the Bears will be patient given his talent and a lack of better options. Yet, with McClellin still out with a knee injury, the Bears have thrust more on his plate as the defensive play-caller – and they’re watching closely to see how he handles it.

Martellus Bennett

made and overall points scored. He’s done it, too, while being perfect on field goals. Gould is 15-for-15 in field goals, including a long of 54 yards and a 3-for-3 clip from beyond 50 yards. He hit the game-winner against Oakland and was the NFC’s Special Teams Player of the Week. Gould had only four touchbacks in the first three games but had 10 in the last three.

Who needs to step up?

The return game

We won’t pin this all on Marc Mariani – remember, his longest return was called back for a holding penalty, and flags thrown on returns have been all too common. This unit needs continuity to help create holes for Mariani, who needs to take advantage. The team is in fine shape in the return game statistically compared to the rest of the league, but is itching to break off a big one.

Who is a player to watch?

Pat O’Donnell

OK, punter isn’t a sexy choice here, but the second-year punter is quietly having a nice season. His net average of 41.7 yards is tied for 11th in the league, and we’ve seen the potential of O’Donnell’s leg. Like in the return game, keeping the same players in punt coverage will only help this unit, and O’Donnell can flip the field for the Bears down the stretch.

SPECIAL TEAMS Who has impressed the most?

Robbie Gould

In six games, all Gould has accomplished is becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in field goals

H. Rick Bamman –Shaw Media

Come check out the only gun wall around!

Thousands of NEW firearms priced well below msrp & large selection of used firearms!

$350

$399 $465

Undercover Lite

Pink Lady 38spl

$405

$449

$299

$399

Benelli Nova 12ga

$159

Hi Point C9

S&W Shield 9mm or 40 S&W

$345 $460Remington Ruger LC9s 870 Express 12ga

Ruger LCR 38spl

Glock 43

$375

Charter

Ruger Springfield SR9, 40 or 45 XD Mod 2 9mm

NEF/ H&R Excell Auto Tactical 12ga

$675

$45.99

$625

Ruger AR-556

$539

Glock 17 & 19 Anderson Lower Gen 4

9mm w/hard case Rock River LAR-15

Marengo Guns 815-331-0418

20014 E. Grant Hwy (Route 20) – Marengo

Open 7 Days A Week 9am-7pm www.marengoguns.com

“Like” Marengo Gun Shop on Facebook to see the latest deals!

All prices shown are cash/check/debit while supplies last.

WE BUY GUNS We’ll buy 1 gun or an entire collection!

Worth the short drive for HUGE SELECTION

& CRAZY LOW PRICES! Only 10min off I-90 on Route 20 in McHenry County.

adno=0330821

11 CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

Who is a player to watch?

ILB Christian Jones

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

12

NFC NORTH REPORT By

ARTHUR ARKUSH

aarkush@chicagofootball.com @ArthurArkush

PACKERS @ BRONCOS

Overview

It’s the matchup everyone has been waiting for: The NFL’s top two scoring defenses – No. 1 Green Bay versus No. 2 Denver – collide. Oh yeah, it’ll also feature the reigning MVP against the NFL’s only five-time MVP, each quarterbacking 6-0 teams, meeting for just the second time. After the bye, Green Bay could be as healthy as it’s been since the season began, with WR Davante Adams (ankle) and S Morgan Burnett (calf) expected back after missing a combined nine games. They should be joined by NT B.J. Raji (groin) and OLB Nick Perry (shoulder), both inactive for the first time in the Week Six win against the Chargers and paramount to the defensive revival under Dom Capers. After this

dream prime-time pairing, the Packers visit another unbeaten, the Panthers, before a four-game divisional slate. The Broncos have to hope the bye helps Peyton Manning, the NFL’s lowest-rated starting quarterback, and an offense responsible for just nine touchdowns through six games.

Matchup to watch

Only Philadelphia has taken it away more than Denver. Only Tom Brady and Andy Dalton have given it away less than Rodgers. Wade Phillips’ terrorizing pass rush welcomes back DeMarcus Ware but hasn’t seen a quarterback as elusive and electric on the move as Rodgers. There are blue-chip battles all over the field in this one, yet Von Miller battling Bryan Bulaga, All-Pro Chris Harris tracking Randall Cobb, and Adams and James Jones seeing plenty of fellow lockdown artists Aqib Talib and Bradley Roby stand out. Wade Phillips’ top passing ‘D’ against the NFL’s top passer; strength versus strength. It’ll be fascinating to see what the avid blitzer, Phillips, has in store for the ultimate blitz beater.

D ng Dreami are you

FREE DESIGNS BY Jocelyn Lilly, Kitchen Design:

815-266-1354

By the numbers

The Packers have scored in the first quarter in an NFL record 22 consecutive games. The next first-quarter point surrendered by Denver’s defense will be its first. … Mike McCarthy’s 8-1 mark after the bye is tied with Marv Levy for the best in NFL history (minimum eight games).

LIONS @ CHIEFS

Overview

The NFL’s 2015 London series culminates with two of this season’s most disappointing teams, which have spent most of 2015 in a fog.

After firing offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and two of his assistants Monday, Lions coach Jim Caldwell hopes promoted Jim Bob Cooter – who was on John Fox’s radar for his offensive coordinator vacancy this offseason before Detroit blocked the interview – can revitalize an offense that again fell asleep at the wheel last week. The defense hasn’t been better recently, following up a 34-point breach against the Bears by permitting Teddy Bridgewater to log his first 300-yard passing day of 2015 while scoring 28 consecutive points to send Detroit into further disarray. Meanwhile, the Chiefs showed some fight for just their second win, as

JJ’s

w of a ne

Kitchen or Bath?

We’ll help re-design your kitchen to your unique style & needs and keep your costs down.

RB Charcandrick West eclipsed 100 rushing yards for the first time in his career, and, propelled by a trio of takeaways, the defense held its third consecutive opponent under 17 points after surrendering 30-plus in Weeks Two through Four.

Matchup to watch

Matthew Stafford has undergone no fewer than three X-rays in 2015, the most recent coming back negative on his left hand, after being sacked seven times and put on his back 13 times by the Vikings. It’s less-than-ideal timing for Detroit that Kansas City’s Tamba Hali notched his first two sacks in nearly a month to bury the Steelers in the fourth quarter last week. Hali will work against LT Riley Reiff, who hasn’t been nearly the problem for Detroit compared to RT LaAdrian Waddle, who’ll try and slow Justin Houston.

After having no solutions for Minnesota’s pressure packages last week, can new O-line coach Ron Prince devise a plan against one of the NFL’s more aggressive defenses that gives Stafford, Calvin Johnson and Co. a chance?

By the numbers

The final straw for Lombardi was likely an offense in Week Seven that managed three first downs and seven net yards in the final three quarters before garbage time.

337 Main Ave. Downtown Milledgeville

Come Back Inn

815-225-7714

Video Gam

ing

Come Watch the game here 7 TVs for your viewing pleasure.

Bar Menu Available

GOING ON VACATION? Keep in touch with the news of the Sauk Valley

FOOTBALL Early blowouts can be owner’s best friend

AP photo

By

J.C. TALON

ChicagoFootball.com fantasy football writer

Ever notice that there are very few NFL games with scores like 45-0 or 55-6? (That is, of course, unless your head coach is Marc Trestman.) Last week, Jacksonville, New Orleans, Miami, Tampa Bay and Oakland all sprinted to huge leads. All of those games, other than Houston at Miami, wound up being relatively close contests.

Heck, even Houston wound up scoring 26 second-half points.

The moral of the story is not to lose faith, even if one of your fantasy stalwarts is on the wrong end of a game that is seemingly out of control. Sometimes, early blowouts are a fantasy owner’s best friend. Just ask owners of Philip Rivers.

On to Week Eight …

MATCHUPS TO EXPLOIT FALCONS (vs. BUCCANEERS) Noon Sunday In terms of total yardage, Tampa’s defense has been stout. The Bucs have allowed just 328 yards per game, good for 5th in the NFL. However, a deeper look into the stats provides hope this week for Falcons’ fantasy owners. Tampa is tied with Chicago for most points allowed per game (29.8), and it is a middle-of-the-pack 15th versus the run. Atlanta’s offense counters with the 5th ranked rushing attack and the 9th ranked passing game.

Atlanta mustered only 10 points last week in Tennessee. But, even in that disappointing effort, Devonta Freeman produced 116 yards on the ground.

Must start: Freeman, Julio Jones Solid play: Matt Ryan, Matt Bryant Worth a look: Jacob Tamme, Falcons D/ST Last resort: Tevin Coleman, Roddy White, Leonard Hankerson

CARDINALS (@ BROWNS)

Noon Sunday Arizona brings its balanced offense (No. 4 overall, No. 6 pass, No. 10 rush) to Cleveland to face the Browns and their 28th-ranked defense. Chris Johnson has been a pleasant surprise. At 30, he does not have the world-class speed he possessed when he entered the league, but he is a mature, patient runner who still has enough burst to break a long run. We do not anticipate a drop off; Bruce Arians is using him perfectly. Johnson is rotated to stay fresh but gets enough touches to be the clear go-to guy in the Cards’ backfield.

This is a great matchup for Johnson. The Browns are ranked dead last versus the run.

Must start: Carson Palmer, Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald Solid play: John Brown, Chandler Catanzaro, Cardinals D/ST Worth a look: Michael Floyd, Jermaine Gresham Last resort: David Johnson, Andre Ellington Stay away: Jaron Brown

BENGALS (@ STEELERS)

his six starts. But, while touchdowns have been few and far between, the Saints do boast the No. 3 passing attack. This week, they’ll face a Giants defense that has been downright Lilliputian in coverage. Only the Raiders and the 49ers are yielding more than New York’s 288 passing yards per game. The pecking order in the Saints’ backfield seems to be established: Mark Ingram is the workhorse, Khiry Robinson is the short-yardage guy, CJ Spiller is more of a receiving option.

Must start: Ingram Solid play: Brees, Brandin Cooks Worth a look: Willie Snead, Benjamin Watson Last resort: Marques Colston, Michael Hoomanawanui Stay away: Kai Forbath, Saints D/ST

JETS (@ RAIDERS) 3:05 p.m. Sunday Oakland’s 304 passing yards allowed per game is worst in the NFL. They are much better against the run, allowing just 84.3 yards on the ground (3rd in the league). The Jets would prefer to run (No. 3 in rushing YPG), but with Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, they have enough firepower to air it out when defenses stack the box.

Must start: Marshall, Jets D/ST Solid play: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Chris Ivory, Decker Worth a look: Nick Folk Last resort: Zac Stacy, Jeff Cumberland Stay away: Bilal Powell*

Noon Sunday Pittsburgh’s defense has been soft between the 20s but pretty decent in the red zone. Their 18.7 points allowed per game is 7th best in the league, but their 377 yards allowed per game ranks 24th. They are particularly susceptible to the pass (27th). Big Ben should return for Pittsburgh, which could lead to a lot of points on both sides.

Must start: A.J. Green, Tyler Eifert Solid play: Andy Dalton, Jeremy Hill, Giovani Bernard Worth a look: Marvin Jones, ALSO CONSIDER Bengals D/ST Last resort: Mohamed Sanu CHARGERS (@ RAVENS) Noon Sunday SAINTS (vs. GIANTS) The Chargers have perfectNoon Sunday ed the art of falling behind early It’s been a bummer of a sea- and then stacking up huge passson for Drew Brees owners. The ing stats in their desperate effort 36-year-old has battled injuries to come from behind. They are and has thrown just eight TDs in No. 1 in passing and total yards.

Their 430 yards per game is a full yielding just 17 points per game.

Must start: Matt Forte 20 yards better than New England.

Solid play: Alshon Jeffery* The Ravens’ defense has fallen all Worth a look: Martellus Bennett the way to No. 25.

Last resort: Jay Cutler, Eddie PANTHERS (vs. COLTS) Royal*, Robbie Gould Stay away: Bears D/ST 7:30 p.m. Sunday Carolina is better known for its defense, but facing the worst de- COWBOYS (vs. SEAHAWKS) fense in the NFL (408.6 yards per 3:25 p.m. Sunday Rumors of Seattle’s demise are game), its offense should roll at home. Must starts: Cam Newton, greatly exaggerated; the defense Jonathan Stewart and Greg Olsen. is No. 3 overall, No. 3 versus the pass, and No. 6 against the run.

This will be a tough matchup for MATCHUPS TO AVOID Dallas.

Darren McFadden exploded 49ERS (@ RAMS) last week and likely will get a Noon Sunday chance to keep the top RB slot. If It’s becoming painfully obhe’s available in your league, he’s vious that there is never a good worth a claim, despite his lengthy week to play your 49ers. This is a injury history. If you were smart particularly bad matchup for San enough to stash McFadden on nd Fran and its 32 -ranked offense. your bench, you might try usDespite having played Green Bay, ing him as trade bait. Given his Arizona and Seattle already this injury risk, he’s no sure bet, and season, St. Louis is allowing just perhaps another owner is desper19.8 points per game. Against ate enough to overspend for him.

Cleveland last week, no Brown Joseph Randle will miss a few running back rushed for more weeks, so look for Christine Mithan 30 yards. A few teams have chael to get more touches. had success against the Rams in Keep an eye on Dez Bryant’s the air, but the 49ers are No. 31 in status. If he’s healthy enough to passing yardage. The early over/ play, this becomes a better matchunder in this game is a paltry 39. It up for all Cowboys. would not be a shock if San FranSolid play: McFadden cisco were held to single digits.

Worth a look: Dez Bryant*, JaWorth a look: Carlos Hyde* son Witten Last resort: Vernon Davis, AnLast resort: Matt Cassel, Miquan Boldin chael, Terrance Williams, Cole Stay away: Colin Kaepernick, Beasley, Dan Bailey Reggie Bush, Torrey Smith, GarStay away: Cowboys D/ST rett Celek, Phil Dawson, 49ers D/ ST

ALSO BEWARE

BEARS (vs. VIKINGS) Noon Sunday The Bears’ offense is ranked No. 27 and averages just 20 points a game. The 30th-ranked Vikings’ offense is scoring at a 20.8 per-game clip. Translation: Don’t expect a lot of points, especially from the Bears. Minnesota’s defense is No. 7 in yards allowed and tied with Denver for No. 2 in points allowed,

RAIDERS (vs. JETS) 3:05 p.m. Sunday Oakland is much improved, but its 18th-ranked offense has a formidable challenge this week.

The Jets’ defense is second overall – first against the run and fourth versus the pass. * Check injury status

13 CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

FANTASY

Cam Newton

ChicagoFootball.com • Thursday, October 29, 2015

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

14

To order “Tales of Valor” by phone with credit card, call 815-625-3600 or 815-284-2224.

$21.50

tax included

Premiering November ‘15

Tales of Valor Honoring Veterans & their Experiences

This book contains photographs and information on veterans from the Sauk Valley area.

Stop in to reserve your copy today!

TELEGRAPH 3200 E. Lincolnway, Sterling

113 S. Peoria Ave., Dixon

KEVIN FISHBAIN

PATRICK FINLEY

Does Cutler deserve another year, or more?

In this week’s edition of ‘Take Two,’ Patrick Finley and Kevin Fishbain discuss – who else? – Bears quarterback Jay Cutler.

FINLEY: Kevin, I was watching Cal quarterback Jared Goff do his high-volume shooter thing on TV Thursday night – some bye week, eh? – and it got me thinking about Jay Cutler. I think the Bears quarterback has been downright good in Adam Gase’s new offense.

Although the Bears have to look toward the future soon, I’m beginning to think Cutler deserves another year – or two or three? – here. Blasphemy?

FISHBAIN: It didn’t take long into the 26-0 drubbing in Seattle that I thought, “Jay Cutler is going to be the 2016 starting quarterback, and should be.” Look around the league. Did you see what Matt

Cassel did on Sunday? Have you seen how rookies not named Andrew Luck have done? The Bears might be rebuilding, but Jay Cutler is how they can stay competitive. Still, can we expect the success he has shown in 4.5 games to continue for the final 10, and for him to stay healthy? What does he need to do going forward to cement that 2016 status?

FINLEY: Stay healthy. Because if he doesn’t, the Bears might not win another game. If that happens, they’ll draft high and will absolutely consider taking a quarterback. Those draft opportunities are rare; the Bears have had one top-five pick since 1999, when you were just a little Fishbain. Seriously, weren’t you, like, 3? This is depressing. Let’s move on.

I won’t hammer the “New Day, New Jay” storyline, but there’s something I like about his demeanor this year. Am I nuts?

Jay Cutler

AP photo

tinuity at receiver and along the O-line should only help Cutler’s production. I think we know at this point the interceptions still will come, but as long as he avoids those games that spiral, he could finish with a strong season. The other impressive thing? The run game has struggled of late. Just think about this offense if Matt Forte gets going – but let’s not get too crazy.

STAY CONNECTED WHEREVER YOU ARE!

CHOOSE FROM

• BREAKING NEWS • SEVERE WEATHER • SCHOOL CLOSINGS • SPORTS NEWS • & MORE

dailyGAZETTE

4%,%'2!0(

SPONSORED BY

News that starts with you.

815-625-3600 | 815-284-2222

txtALERTS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY SAUK VALLEY MEDIA

15 CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY | Thursday, October 29, 2015 • ChicagoFootball.com

TAKE TWO

FISHBAIN: I’ll never forget ’99, dominating the elementary school four square games. I bet Cutler would be good at four square. Adam Gase has unlocked good-demeanor Cutler! Seriously, though, there’s something about that bond – and I know, we’ve seen success early on with Cutler and offensive coordinators – but this one seems different. Maybe it’s that Gase worked with Peyton Manning, or that he’s younger than some of Cutler’s previous play-callers, but I think that has to help. Plus, Jay’s got a pretty nice group of pass catchers. That’s got to make any quarterback happy, right?

FINLEY: When they’re healthy, sure.

What’s impressed me the most about Cutler is who he’s won with – and without. In the Bears’ two victories this year, Cutler has completed passes to four receivers: Marquess Wilson (12), Eddie Royal (7), Josh Bellamy (6) and Cameron Meredith (4). Those ain’t exactly the Three Amigos.

(Well, there’s four of them. But still.) The fact that Cutler has succeeded with a patchwork offensive line is encouraging, too. Now that it appears both Alshon Jeffery and the line will be close to full strength, do you expect Cutler’s production to go up?

FISHBAIN: As John Fox has told us, everything should only get better going forward – and his teams have generally done that, especially after the bye. More comfort with the offense and more con-

815-288-4455 - www.KenNelsonAuto.com

:_`ZX^f=ffkYXcc%Zfd › K_lij[Xp# FZkfY\i )0# )'(,

| CHICAGO FOOTBALL WEEKLY

16

*

*

*

*

*

#CYF125 #CYF064

#CYF255 #CYF188 #GF041

50

Celebrating

1100 N. Galena - Dixon, IL - 815.288.4455 - www.KenNelsonAuto.com

years

Warren Gridley Rick Pontnak Brad Claussen General Manager

Sales Manager

Sales Manager

Sherry Law

Denny Bellows Ron Stephenitch

Joe Patzer

Mike Baker

Jeff Dewey

Thais Fazekas

Al Riley

Clayton Bonnell

Business Manager Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional

Sally Deming Donielle Freytag Leon Mealing

Sales Professional Sales Professional Sales Professional

*Prices do not include tax, title, license or doc fees. Residency restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by 10/31/2015. Photos for illustration purposes only. Dealer not liable for errors.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT @ KEN NELSON AUTO GROUP - 10.28.15 - 5:30-7PM