SVM_Prep Football Preview_082725

Six football questions in the Sauk Valley area for 2025

By Drake Lansman

The Illinois high school football season gets underway soon. Here are six intriguing questions in the Sauk Valley area for 2025.

WHO STEPS UP FOR DIXON?

The Dukes are coming off back-toback 10-win seasons for the first time in program history. Dixon has gone 10-2 the past two seasons under coach Jared Shaner and reached the Class 4A state quarterfinals last season behind a strong defense and high-octane offense.

But after the graduation of all-state quarterback Cullen Shaner, linebacker/wide receiver Eli Davidson, and additional experience at receiver, new players need to step up at key positions if the Dukes want to compete for double-digit wins once again.

Dixon’s offensive and defensive lines look to be a strength. The Dukes return four starters on the offensive line and five players with experience on the defensive line.

The running game also looks to be in a good position, led by 1,200-plus-yard rusher Landon Knigge. Jagger Kemp will take the reins at quarterback for the Dukes, and Jake Whelan returns after he was second on the team in tackles to Davidson last season.

WILL MORRISON TRANSFER RYLAN ALVARADO LEAD THE NEWMAN BACKFIELD?

The Comets have a new speedster in the backfield this season. Morrison transfer Rylan Alvarado comes to Newman after he led off Class 1A state track titles in the 4x100- and 4x200-meter relays. Morrison’s dominance in the sprint events helped the Mustangs win their first state title as a team.

Alvarado, who also played tailback at Morrison, ran an 11.29 personal record in the 100 as a sophomore in track.

Alvarado looks to fit right in at traditionally run-heavy Newman. There will be plenty of carries available for the Three Rivers Rock Conference champions following the graduation of Daniel Kelly, Cody McBride and Briar Ivey.

Senior quarterback Evan Bushman and athlete/linebacker George Jungerman return to help lead the team as experienced multi-sport standouts.

CAN STERLING REVITALIZE ITS RUN GAME THIS SEASON?

Finishing with five wins each of the past two seasons, the Golden Warriors have narrowly made the playoffs to extend a run of 10 straight appearances.

Establishing what has historically been a strong run game would likely help make the playoff path easier for Sterling and coach Jonathan Schlemmer, who became the team’s all-time leader in wins last season at 101 and counting.

Sterling averaged just 69.2 rushing yards per game last season and 2.4 yards per rush. Cobey Shipma led the backfield with 283 yards, with Wyatt Cassens (197 yards) and Deseo Ibarra-Castillo (117) the only other rushers over 100 yards for the season. Sterling had just nine rushing touchdowns on the season, led by Shipma’s four. Ibarra-Castillo’s 44-yard run was the team’s longest of the season.

For a team with a new quarterback that relied on its defense last season, effectively running the ball would go a long way.

WHAT WILL ROCK FALLS’ NEXT COACH BRING?

Newman quarterback Evan Bushman prepares to hand o . Newman defeated Chicago Hope 50-22 in Class 1A 1st round football at Sterling High School last season. Bushman returns to help lead the Comets this season.

Staying competitive in every game, let alone winning, has been a challenge for Rock Falls over the years. The Rockets went 5-43 in six years under coach Kevin Parker before he resigned after last season.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA TEAMS.

David Chavira is now the coach for the Rockets, who have not won more than two games since they went 3-6 in 2016 and 2017. Their last winning season was a 5-4 campaign in 2009, and their last playoff appearance came in 1992, when they went 7-4.

HOW WILL AREA TEAMS FARE IN THE NUIC?

It was an up-and-down season in the Northwest Upstate Illini Conference last year for area teams. While Eastland-Pearl City (6-2 NUIC) had its best season since 2018 and took third in the conference, Forreston had a rare down

year and finished 2-7 overall. Morrison was 2-6 in its first year in the NUIC, and Fulton was 3-5. In a loaded conference still run by Lena-Winslow with Durand-Pecatonica right behind, even battling for the middle of the conference standings and a trip to the playoffs is not a given.

CAN THE SAUK VALLEY DOMINATE THE I8FA FINALS AGAIN?

Last season, the Amboy co-op beat Milledgeville 42-14 to win its second straight 8-man title after a third straight appearance in the championship game. Both Sauk Valley area teams are expected to contend once again.

The Milledgeville Missiles also beat Polo 28-14 in the semifinals, and West Carroll’s 8-man debut closed in the Elite 8 with a 66-0 loss to Polo.

PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN HURLEY

By Drake Lansman

ROCK ISLAND ALLEMAN PIONEERS

Coach: Tom Barber

2024 record: Did not compete

Top players: Kelly Honert, jr., QB/LB; Adam VanMeighem, sr., RB/DB; Kyle Holden, sr., RB/LB; Robbie Wolfe, jr., OL/DL; Joe Alonso, sr., TE/DB

Schedule: Aug. 29 Walther Christian; Sept. 5 Dwight; Sept. 12 at Quincy; Sept. 19 Galesburg; Sept. 26 Rock Island; Oct. 3 at Sterling; Oct. 10 at Moline; Oct. 17 at Geneseo; Oct. 24 United Township Worth noting:

GALESBURG SILVER STREAKS

Coach: Shawn Hickey

2024 record: 1-8, 0-6

Top players: Demetrius Watson, sr., WR/DB; Drew Hickey, sr., WR/OLB; Bradley Eaton, sr., WR/DB; Lavant Ritenour, sr., OL/LB; Dallin Junious, sr., OL/DL

Schedule: Aug. 29 Dunlap; Sept. 5 at Limestone; Sept. 12 United Township; Sept. 19 at Alleman; Sept. 26 at Sterling; Oct. 3 Geneseo; Oct. 19 at Quincy; Oct. 17 Rock Island; Oct. 24 at Moline

GENESEO MAPLE LEAFS

Coach: Matthew Furlong 2024 record: 6-5, 2-4

Top players: Kye Weinzierl, sr., RB/LB; Jackson McAvoy, sr., QB/DB; Carter Holke, sr., TE/K; Lincoln Barnett, sr., RB/DB; Peyton Hofer, sr. FB/LB

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Rochelle, Sept. 5 Assumption; Sept. 12 Rock Island; Sept. 19 at Moline; Sept. 26 United Township; Oct. 3 at Galesburg; Oct. 19 Sterling; Oct. 17 Alleman; Oct. 24 at Quincy

MOLINE MAROONS

Coach: Mike Morrissey 2024 record: 8-3, 5-1

Top players: Eli Warren, jr., RB/DB; Moussa Mbengue, sr., OL/DL; Drew Phelps, sr., QB/WR/DB; Nolan Ducey, sr., TE/DB; LaTorian Hill, sr., OL/DL

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Rockwood Summit (Mo.); Sept. 5 Sycamore; Sept. 12 at Sterling; Sept. 19 Geneseo; Sept. 26 at Quincy; Oct. 3 Rock Island; Oct. 10 vs. Alleman; Oct. 17 at United Township; Oct. 24 vs. Galesburg

QUINCY BLUE DEVILS

Coach: Rick Little

Western Big 6 Conference Preview 2025

2024 record: 11-1, 6-0

Top players: Jaxson Moore, jr., OL; Ben Schelp, sr., MLB; Todd Smith, sr., LT; Brayden Ulrich, jr., WR/DB; Noah Wells, jr., TE/LB

Schedule: Aug. 29 Booneville (Mo.); Sept. 5 at Alton; Sept. 12 Alleman; Sept. 19 at Rock Island; Sept. 26 Moline; Oct. 3 at United Township; Oct. 10 Galesburg; Oct. 17 at Sterling, Oct. 24 Geneseo

ROCK ISLAND ROCKS

Coach: Fritz Dieudonné 2024 record: 1-8, 1-5

Top players: Myles Duster, jr., QB; Evan Elliis, jr., WR/DB; Avian Thomas, sr., WR/DB; Temar Hudson, sr., RB/DB; Je’Mier McDaniel, so., OL/DL

Schedule: Aug. 29 Kaneland; Sept. 5 at Dunlap; Sept. 12 at Geneseo, Sept. 19 Quincy; Sept. 26 at Alleman; Oct. 3 at Moline; Oct. 10 United Township; Oct. 17 at Galesburg; Oct. 24 Sterling

STERLING GOLDEN WARRIORS

Coach: Jonathan Schlemmer 2024 record: 5-5, 4-2

Top players: Wyatt Cassens, sr., DE/ RB; Deseo Ibarra-Castillo, so., LB; AJ Coleman, jr., OL/DL; Quincy Maas, jr., WR; Ryan Gebhardt, sr., K

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Metamora; Sept. 5 Chicago Urban Prep/Bronzeville; Sept. 12 Moline; Sept. 19 at United Township; Sept. 26 Galesburg; Oct. 3 vs. Allemanl Oct. 10 at Geneseo; Oct. 17 Quincy; Oct. 24 at Rock Island

UNITED TOWNSHIP PANTHERS

Coach: Nick Welch 2024 record: 4-5, 3-3

Top players: Isaiah Navarrete, sr., RB/ DB; Leo Sim, jr., DB/RB; Tristan Wallarab, sr., OL/DL; Eli Oppenheimer, sr., OL/DL; Rowan Kallal, sr., TE/DL; Jasiah Massey, sr., WR/DB

Schedule: Aug. 29 LaSalle-Peru; Sept. 5 Chicago Noble/Muchin; Sept. 12 at Galesburg; Sept. 19 Sterling; Sept. 26 at Geneseo; Oct. 3 Quincy; Oct. 10 at Rock Island, Oct. 17 Moline, Oct. 24 at Alleman

5 GAMES TO WATCH

Week 1 - Walther Christian at Alleman: This is the first look at an Alleman team that is back in the Big 6 after not fielding a varsity team the last two seasons. Tom Barber is in his first year with the Pioneers after serving as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at Riverdale.

Week 2 - Davenport Assumption at

Geneseo: An intriguing nonconference tilt, this is the first matchup between Assumption and Geneseo and the only game in the Big 6 featuring a team from Illinois and a team from Iowa. Both programs have successful traditions and state trophies in the case.

Week 5 - Moline at Quincy: Quincy is coming off a state quarterfinal appearance in Class 7A, but the two-time defending Big 6 champions lost some firepower to graduation, including QB Bradyn Little, who re-wrote the school record-book passing the ball. Moline’s only Big 6 loss was to Quincy.

Week 6 - Rock Island at Moline: While the Maroons have dominated the matchup in recent years, it remains one of the oldest rivalries in the state. Both teams have been playing football for over 125 years with the matchup going back and forth throughout the years. Moline won 37-12 last season.

Week 7 - Sterling at Geneseo: The matchup of former NIB-12 and NCIC opponents has plenty of history. Sterling leads the all-time series 36-23. The Warriors have won the past 10 matchups, but the past two have been close, defensive struggles. Sterling won 13-6 last season and 13-3 the season before.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

United Township’s Isaiah Navarrete runs against Sterling Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Sterling High School.

By Eddie Cari o

BYRON TIGERS

Coach: Jeff Boyer

2024 record: 10-1, 8-0

Schedule: Aug. 28 at Rock Falls; Sept. 5, Dixon; Sept. 12, Oregon; Sept. 19, at Stillman Valley; Sept. 26, Winnebago; Oct. 3, Durand-Pecatonica; Oct. 10, at Genoa-Kingston; Oct. 17, Rockford Lutheran; Oct. 24, at North Boone.

Worth noting: The Tigers won Class 3A titles in 2021 and 2023 and were a semifinalist in 2022. But last year, they ran into eventual state champ Montini in the second round, losing 14-13 for their earliest playoff exit since 2016. The Tigers beat the Broncos in 2023 to earn a trip to the title game. Senior running back/ linebacker Caden Considine will be a big factor for the Tigers again this year. Andrew Talbert also returns at quarterback and free safety after contributing big plays at both positions. He’s also coming off a standout baseball season that included setting the school’s single-season home run record and tossing a no-hitter against North Boone. Other players to watch include senior running back/ linebacker Dawson Criddle, senior tight end/defensive end Kade Politsch and senior defensive end Isaac Alvarez.

The team has an intriguing nonconference matchup in Week 6 at Pecatonica, an NUIC power fresh off a 10-2 year last season. The Indians are scheduled to join the BNC in 2026, bringing the league back to six teams. Last year, the IHSA ranked the Tigers as the 31st best program in the history of the state.

DIXON DUKES

Coach: Jared Shaner

2024 record: 10-2, 7-1

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Rockford Lutheran, Sept. 5 at Byron; Sept. 12 Rock Falls; Sept. 19 at North Boone; Sept. 26 at Oregon, Oct. 3 Stillman Valley; Oct. 10 at Winnebago; Oct 17 at Streator; Oct. 24 Genoa-Kingston.

Worth noting: The Dukes return eight defensive starters from a team that gave up 11 points per game and had two shutouts in reaching the Class 4A quarterfinals. A big piece of the puzzle is how 1,000-yard rusher Landon Knigge returns from a torn meniscus suffered May 26. He was expected to be back by the start of practices on August 11. The Dukes have made 10 straight postseasons since joining the BNC in 2014. Dylan Bopes and Bene Baratta will be the guards ahead of who ends up at quarterback, which could be Jagger Kemp, a junior who had a

Big Northern Conference Preview 2025

strong offseason. Other players to watch include senior linebacker Jake Whelan, senior lineman Jayden Neal and senior wide receiver Kellen Haenitsch.

The Dukes have an intriguing nonconference matchup against former NCIC and Northern Illinois Big 12 foe Streator in Week 8.

GENOA-KINGSTON COGS

Coach: Cam Davekos

2024 record: 5-5, 4-4

Schedule: Aug. 29, Oregon; Sept. 5, Stillman Valley; Sept. 12, at Winnebago; Sept. 19, Seneca; Sept. 26, North Boone; Oct. 3, at Rockford Lutheran; Oct. 10, Byron; Oct. 17, at Rock Falls; Oct. 24, at Dixon.

Worth noting: The Cogs returned to the playoffs last year after missing in 2023 after a 4-5 season. But they’re still looking for their first playoff win since 2021 after losing to Pecatonica in the first round last year. They’ve won at least four games in every full season since 2013 and have made nine playoff appearances in that stretch. They had a pair of close losses to Oregon (3-0) and Stillman Valley (22-20) that should make for exciting rematches this year.

Players to watch include senior fullback/inside linebacker Owen Zaccard, senior quarterback/outside linebacker Cody Cravatta, senior wide receiver/defensive back Ben Kleba, senior running back/strong safety Anthony Gum and senior offensive/defensive lineman Mason McPeek.

NORTH BOONE VIKINGS

Coach: Brett Frederick

2024 record: 4-5, 4-5

Schedule: Aug. 29, at Winnebago; Sept. 5, at Rock Falls; Sept. 12, at St. Bede; Sept. 19, Dixon; Sept. 26, at Genoa-Kingston; Oct. 3, Oregon; Oct. 10, at Rockford Lutheran; Oct. 17, at Stillman Valley; Oct. 24, Byron.

Worth noting: Frederick takes over at his alma mater after the Vikings went 4-5 for the second straight year. North Boone last made the playoffs in 2023, last won a playoff game in 2018, and last got past the second round in 2002. The offense last year broke the 20-point barrier once, a 35-14 win against Rock Falls. They beat an Oregon team that made the postseason, 18-13. The player to watch is junior running back/outside linebacker Connor Chamberlain.

OREGON HAWKS

Coach: Broc Kundert 2024 record: 5-5, 4-4

Schedule: Aug. 29, at Genoa-Kingston, Sept. 5, Rockford Lutheran; Sept. 12, at Byron; Sept. 19, at Rock Falls; Sept. 26, Dixon; Oct. 3, at North Boone; Oct. 10, at Stillman Valley; Oct. 17, Winnebago; Oct. 24, at Dwight.

Worth noting: Kundert said he expects big things out of senior running back/defensive back Cooper Johnson and how he can be a top player in the league. The Hawks also have plenty of players that can run the ball with Johnson, senior Keaton Salsbury, junior fullback Jakob Moser and junior Jakobi Donagen, all in the backfield - although Donagen may end up playing elsewhere on offense, as well. Senior Tristin Smith Van Cura is Oregon’s top lineman up front.

The Hawks have made two straight playoff appearances but were bounced in the first round both times. The 2023 appearance was their first since 2014, which was also the last time they got past the first round. Their nonconference matchup comes in Week 9 against a Dwight team that went 8-4 last year and could prove crucial for the Hawks’ playoff chances.

ROCK FALLS ROCKETS

Coach: David Chavira

2024 record: 1-8, 1-8

Schedule: Aug. 28, Byron; Sept. 5, North Boone; Sept. 12, at Dixon; Sept. 19, at Oregon; Sept. 26, Stillman Valley; Oct. 3, at Winnebago; Oct. 10, Illinois Valley Central; Oct. 17, Genoa-Kingston; Oct. 24, at Rockford Lutheran.

Worth noting: Chavira takes over a Rockets team looking for its first winning season since 2009 and first playoff berth since 1992. The Rockets haven’t reached three wins in a season since 2017. Their only win last year was a forfeit victory against Rockford Christian, and their closest game on the field was a 25-13 home loss to Genoa-Kingston in Week 8.

Rock Falls’ players to watch include senior running back/defensive back Logan Thome, senior lineman Broxyn Surratt, senior lineman Jovanni Pedroza, senior lineman Peighton Aslstrand and junior quarterback/linebacker Trail Stonitsch.

ROCKFORD LUTHERAN CRUSADERS

Coach: Don Lee

2024 record: 7-4, 6-3

Schedule: Aug. 29, Dixon; Sept. 5, at Oregon; Sept. 12, at Stillman Valley; Sept. 19, Winnebago; Sept. 26, at Dakota; Oct. 3, Genoa-Kingston; Oct. 10, North Boone; Oct. 17, at Byron; Oct. 24, Rock Falls.

Worth noting: Lee takes over as the Cru-

saders look for their fourth straight playoff appearance. They’ve made the second round in two of the past three years, including last year. The defense had two shutouts, and the offense scored at least 13 points in every game. The Crusaders have a Week 5 nonconference game against Dakota, an NUIC school that went 0-9 last year. Senior quarterback Daniel Ballard is the player to watch.

STILLMAN VALLEY CARDINALS

Coach: Mike Lalor

2024 record: 5-5, 5-4

Schedule: Aug. 29, Marengo; Sept. 5, at Genoa-Kingston; Sept. 12, Rockford Lutheran; Sept. 19, Byron; Sept. 26, at Rock Falls; Oct. 3, at Dixon; Oct. 10, Oregon; Oct. 17, North Boone; Oct. 24, Winnebago.

Worth noting: The IHSA ranked the top 50 football programs in its history, and the Cardinals made the list at No. 15. They have qualified for six postseasons in a row, although last year was the first time they were bounced in the first round since 2006. The team won state championships under Lalor five times, most recently in 2013. Lalor is 219-83 in his 27 years at Stillman Valley, almost half of the school’s 475 all-time wins in its 75 years, according to IHSA archives. The Cardinals open against former BNC foe Marengo in a Week 1 nonconference matchup. They also close the year with three straight home games and have six at home this year. Senior lineman Cale Kleinschmidt is the player to watch.

WINNEBAGO INDIANS

Coach: Mark Helm

2024 record: 2-7, 2-7

Schedule: Aug. 29, North Boone; Sept. 5, at Clinton (Iowa); Sept. 12, at Genoa-Kingston; Sept. 19, at Rockford Lutheran; Sept. 26, at Byron; Oct. 3, Rock Falls; Oct. 10, Dixon; Oct. 17, at Oregon; Oct 24, at Stillman Valley

Worth noting: The Indians last made the postseason in 2022, and last made consecutive appearances in 2015-17. They last won more than five games in a season in 2017. They are the only BNC team to go out of state for their nonconference game, but it’s still one of the shorter trips as they face Clinton, Wisconsin, in Week 2, about a 45-minute trip from Winnebago. The Indians had one onfield win last year, a 35-32 victory against Rock Falls in Week 9.

The players to watch are senior lineman Ashton Pratt and junior tight end/ defensive end Lincoln Asprooth.

Preview 2025

Scouting the Three Rivers Conference

By Kevin Hieronymus

MISSISSIPPI DIVISION

PRINCETON TIGERS

Coach: Ryan Pearson

Last season: 10-2, 5-0

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Newman; Sept. 5 Rockridge; Sept. 12 at Sherrard; Sept. 19 Kewanee; Sept. 26 vs. Monmouth-Roseville; Oct. 3 at Hall; Oct. 10 Mendota; Oct. 17 at Mercer County; Oct. 24 Erie-Prophetstown.

Worthy of note: The Tigers saw their streak of six straight conference championships snapped last year and seek to get back on top. They also take aim on getting past the quarterfinals hurdle for the first time since 2019 after four attempts. Senior captains Rhett Pearson and Owen Hartman anchor the offensive and defensive lines with QB Gavin Lanham and RBs Casey Etheridge and Common Green returning in the backfield. Etheridge was named First-Team Class 3A All-State, unanimous Three Rivers Mississippi All-Conference and co-BCR Player of the Year last year. He rushed for 1,706 yards and 25 TDs and is on target to become the all-time leading rusher in Bureau County. Lanham shined under pressure taking over in last year’s quarterfinals following an injury to starter Will Lott. Senior end Ryan Jagers is back to full strength after sustaining a knee injury sophomore year.

HALL-PUTNAM COUNTY RED DEVILS

Coach: Nick Sterling Last season: 3-6, 1-4

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Orion; Sept. 5 Erie-Prophetstown; Sept. 12 at Mendota; Sept. 19 Sherrard; Sept. 26 at Kewanee; Oct. 3 Princeton; Oct. 10 at Monmouth-Roseville; Oct. 17 at Riverdale; Oct. 24 Rockridge.

Worthy of note: Sterling returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach last year and now takes over as head coach. He succeeds Logan Larson, who resigned after one year to become head coach at his hometown school, Pleasant Plains. Sterling aims to bring back the Red Devils’ tradition, having played on Hall’s 1995 state champions, 1996 state runners-up and 1997 quarterfinalists. ... The Red Devils have a solid offensive core in seniors Dylan Glynn (QB), Aiden Redcliff (RB/LB), Braden Curran, (RB/DB) and Jack Curran (RB/DB) with Jacob Mongan

(OL/DL) up front. Sterling said they all make great team leaders due to their commitment and caring for the team, in addition to their own hard work.

“They are constantly motivating and leading their teammates. I see them regularly picking other players up that do not have rides. That is just one of many examples. These guys truly care, and it is evident when this team interacts with each other,” Sterling said.

“Our coaching staff is very proud of all of the players that have put in the work, and it is a privilege to be a part of the boys’ lives as they develop into young men. These memories they create during their football careers will be some of their most memorable times they will reflect back on.”

KEWANEE BOILERMAKERS

Coach: Matt Taylor

Last season: 5-5, 3-2

Schedule: Aug. 29 at E-P; Sept. 5 Riverdale; Sept. 12 Monmouth-Roseville; Sept. 19 at Princeton; Sept. 26 Hall; Oct. 3 at Mendota; Oct. 10 Sherrard; Oct. 17 at Newman; Oct. 24 Orion.

Worthy of note: The Boilermakers have made the playoffs two straight years and six out of the past eight years in 4A, but have won just two of eight games. Kewanee last won a conference championship when they claimed a share with Princeton in 2021. Last year’s team made a nice run at 5-5 despite having to replace QB Brady Clark, who graduated in 2024 as the school’s all-time leading scorer. The Boilers are going to be young this year having lost several seniors receiving all-conference recognition. Leading the way for the Boilers this year will be seniors Malik Diop (TE), Brayden Johnson (QB/LB), Airies Simmons (OL/DL), Abe Hicks (WR/ DB) and Landon Weir (OL/DL), juniors Isaih Ince (QB/DB), Kaanan Griffin (OL/DL), Jesus Martinez (OL/DL) and sophomore Ace LaFollette (RB).

MENDOTA TROJANS

Coach: Jim Eustice

Last season: 0-9, 0-5

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Riverdale; Sept. 6 Newman; Sept. 12 Hall; Sept. 19 at Monmouth-Roseville; Sept. 26 at Sherrard; Oct. 3 Kewanee; Oct. 10 at Princeton; Oct. 17 at E-P; Oct. 24 Mercer County.

Worthy of note: Eustice leaves St. Bede after a 10-year run, going 46-47 record with four playoff appearances,

to take over a Mendota program looking to get back on solid ground. The Trojans are 25-88 over the past 13 seasons, winning just 11 games over the past seven seasons, none a year ago. The Trojans made the playoffs twice during that span, the last time in 2021 with 2014 being the program’s last winning season at 6-4. Mendota was 63-43 from 2002-12 with seven playoff appearances, including two quarterfinals. Senior Aden Tillman returns at QB along with classmates Keegan Beetz (WR/DB). Joe Stewart (TE/LB), Wyatt Ossman (DB) and Austin Welch (C/DL) and Corbin Furar (RB/LB) and junior Jayden Lesley (RB/LB).

MONMOUTH-ROSEVILLE TITANS

Coach: Jeremy Adolphson

Last season: 8-2, 5-0

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Mercer County; Sept. 5 Orion; Sept. 12 at Kewanee; Sept. 19 Mendota; Sept. 26 at Princeton; Oct. 3 at Sherrard; Oct. 10 Hall; Oct. 17 at Rockridge; Oct. 24 Newman.

Worthy of note: The Titans are the defending conference champions, unseating Princeton with a resounding 31-3 defeat to avenge two losses to the Tigers in 2023, including a playoff game. “Our goal is to defend our title, but Princeton will be very good again, as will Kewanee, and I think Hall could take a big step forward,” Adolphson said. ... The Titans coach said depth

on both sides of the line and in the offensive backfield should be the Titans’ strength once again and “we will have good size and strength at nearly all positions.” Their main weakness is the lack of top end speed and we have a significant lack of depth in the defensive backfield, “however we have several good athletes who are aggressive and will play fast.” The Titans will rely heavily on returning stalwarts in senior Landyn Angelo (OL/DL), Brody Dodd (OL/DL), Nick Huston (TB/ LB) and Andrew Way (LB) and junior Landon Montroy (FB). Mon-Rose’s QB position will be question mark heading into the season, but Adolphson said they have “3-4 kids we will be looking at and may play a combination of kids at that spot.”

SHERRARD TIGERS

Coach: Dan McGuire

Last season: 2-7, 2-3

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Rockridge; Sept. 5 Mercer County; Sept. 12 Princeton; Sept. 19 at Hall; Sept. 26 Mendota; Oct. 3 Monmouth-Roseville; Oct. 10 at Kewanee; Oct. 17 at Orion; Oct. 24 Riverdale.

Worthy of note: McGuire returns to the sidelines to take over the Tigers program after 25 years removed from his last high school job, He had a 10year run as the head coach at Moline from 1991-2000, where he led the Ma-

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL Newman’s George Jungerman looks to get away from Monmouth-Roseville’s Landyn Angelo Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at Roscoe Eades Stadium in Sterling.

roons to a 66-32 record. He has also been an assistant coach at Fulton, Althoff, Rock Island, Alleman and Moline. He succeeds Brandon Johnston, who resigned after five seasons. ... Senior Carter Brown, an all-conference selection, returns at WR/DB for the Tigers. ... Sherrard finished 2-3 in its first year in the Three Rivers Mississippi Division after moving over from the Rock side.

ROCK DIVISION

NEWMAN COMETS

Coach: Mike LeMay

Last season: 8-3, 5-0

Schedule: Aug. 29 vs. Princeton, Sept. 6 at Mendota, Sept. 12 vs. E-P, Sept. 19 at Orion, Sept. 26 at Rockridge, Oct. 3 vs. Mercer County, Oct. 10 at Riverdale, Oct. 17 vs. Kewanee, Oct. 24 at Monmouth-Roseville.

Worthy of note: The 2025 season is shaping up to be another good one for the defending conference champion Comets. LeMay said the Comets have seven returning seniors “that played a ton,” including a lot of experience on the line. There are also six upcoming juniors coming back that played a lot of minutes during their sophomore campaign. The Comets have also picked up a new speedster in the backfield this season. Morrison transfer Rylan Alvarado comes to Newman after he led off Class 1A state track titles in the 4x100- and 4x200-meter relays. He ran an 11.29 personal record in the 100 as a sophomore in track. Senior Evan Bushman returns for his third year as the leader of the offense at QB. He has thrown for just over 1,000 yard in each year. The Comets look for contributions from seniors Ben Geske (OL/DL) and George Jungerman (ATH/LB) and juniors Rylan Alverado (RB/DB) and Matt Blackert (RB/LB). “We return a ton of speed defensively and are expecting to be an elite unit on that side of the ball, with a ton of guys that can play and have great experience. Overall, we hope to make a statement in the Three Rivers yet again,” LeMay said.

ERIE-PROPHETSTOWN PANTHERS

Coach: Tyler Whitebread

Last season: 5-5, 2-3

Schedule: Aug. 29 Kewanee; Sept. 5 at Hall; Sept. 12 at Newman; Sept. 19 Rockridge; Sept. 26 at Mercer County; Oct. 3 Riverdale; Oct. 10 at Orion; Oct. 17 Mendota; Oct. 24 Princeton. Worthy of note: The Panthers are eager to build on last year’s 5-5 record, which ended with a playoff berth and first-round 14-6 loss to Bismarck Henning. “We have a ton of experience returning to the team this year, so expectations are high for us. That experience, coupled with the return of

a talented veteran core, has the team and coaching staff feeling optimistic going into this season,” Whitebread said. E-P looks to replace Demetree Larsen at the RB position. Whitebreak said there are several guys that can burden the load on offense which include junior Tristan Hovey and senior Max Milem at running back and senior Keegan Winckler at quarterback. The Panthers also have two explosive WRs coming back for their third year on varsity, Gaven Adams and Connor Keegan. Whitebreak said they will lean on two juniors on the offensive line, Derek Naftzger and Caleb Reymer. Defensively, E-P has to replace Amen Barron as a three-year starter as linebacker. Jordae Crow, Brayden Frank, and Evan Steimle are among those returning as starters that E-P hopes to lean on. The Panthers also expect Caleb Reymer and Derek Naftzger to plug holes on the defensive line. “Keys to our success will be winning the turnover battle as usual and playing hardnosed football where everyone gets to the ball on each play. On offense, we need to protect the ball and keeping the defense off-balance by mixing in timely passing,” Whitebread said.

ORION CHARGERS

Coach: Chip Fuller

Last season: 2-7, 0-5

Schedule: Aug. 29 Hall; Sept. 5 at Monmouth-Roseville; Sept. 12 at Mercer County; Sept. 19 Newman; Sept. 26 at Riverdale; Oct. 3 at Rockridge; Oct. 10 E-P; Oct. 17 Sherrard; Oct. 24 at Kewanee.

Worthy of note: The Chargers had a run of six straight playoff appearances, but have gone 14-26 since their last in 2019. Senior Kale Fuller returns for his fourth year as the quarterback for his dad’s Chargers. He threw for 2,038 yards and 23 TDs as a sophomore and became Orion’s leading passer in his last game of junior year. Orion brings back an 17 returning starters, eight on offense, nine on defense, including third-year WR/DB Owen Voorhees. “I feel we have a deadly combination with a 4-year starter QB and 3-year starter at receiver,” Coach Filler said. Other two-way returning starters are Wyatt Steen (OL/DL), Aaron Mohr (WR/DB), Max Larson (WR/DB) and Greyson Weaver (OL/DL). “We bring back a lot of experience from the last couple of seasons. We are not very big, but I feel like we are athletic. We play in a tough conference and it will be a struggle every week,” Coach Filler said.

MERCER COUNTY GOLDEN EAGLES

Coach: Fred Lucas

Last season: 4-5, 2-3

Schedule: Aug. 29 Monmouth-Roseville; Sept. 5 at Sherrard; Sept. 12

Orion; Sept. 19 at Riverdale; Sept. 26 E-P; Oct. 3 at Newman; Oct. 10 Rockridge; Oct. 17 Princeton; Oct. 24 at Mendota.

Worthy of note: The Golden Eagles finished 4-5 last year in their first season in the Three Rivers in the midst of a late-season coaching change. They return a good core of starters from last season, sprinkled in with some solid newcomers that they hope to contend for the conference title. Senior QB John Baldwin threw for 1,165 yards and 10 TDs last year, rushing for 535 yards and 7 TDs. Mason Gray, a firstteam all-conference pick as a junior, rushed for 926 yards and 9 TDs. Senior lineman Kaidin Terrill also earned First Team All-Conference honors. Other top returning players for the Golden Eagles are seniors Eli Burns (OG/LB), Carter Dale (OL/DL), JJ Smock, (OL/ DL) and Tannen Whitehall (RB/DB) and junior Logan Schreurs (DB/RB). Lucas looks for a host of newcomers to make an impact with seniors Spencer Andresen (WR) Holden Demuth (WR/ DB), Noah Johnson (DE), Cooper Lamkin (RB/LB) and Trace Zeitler, (RB/LB) and juniors Harold Odeen (OL/DL) and Kolton Wilkens (DB/ WR). “Just like most all the schools in our conference, if we can stay healthy, we will be a contender every Friday night,” Lucas said.

RIVERDALE RAMS

Coach: Guy Dierikx

Last season: 4-5, 2-3

Schedule: Aug. 29 Mendota; Sept. 5 at Kewanee; Sept. 12 at Rockridge; Sept. 19 Mercer County; Sept. 26 Orion; Oct. 3 at. E-P; Oct. 10 Newman; Oct. 17 Hall; Oct. 24 at Sherrard. Worthy of note: The Rams are just thee years removed from not having a varsity program due to lack numbers. They went 0-9 the first year back, improving to 4-5 last year and lost two very close games. Senior Caen Beckett totaled 1,004 rushing/receiving yards

combined with 11 TDs. Junior Jackson Tegeler had had 272 yards and three TDs receiving while making 80 tackles with three INTs on defense. Other top returning players are junior Marcus Bennett (OL/DL) and seniors Gaege Heinsen (RB) and Landen Peterson (DB). “We have extremely high expectations and look to get back to the playoffs for the first time in nearly 15 years,” Dierikx said.

ROCKRIDGE ROCKETS

Coach: Sam Graves

Last season: 8-3, 4-1

Schedule: Aug. 29 Sherrard; Sept. 5 at Princeton; Sept. 12 Riverdale; Sept. 19 at E-P, Sept. 26 Newman; Oct. 3 Orion; Oct. 10 at Mercer County; Oct. 17 Monmouth-Roseville; Oct. 24 at Hall.

Worthy of note: The success of the Rockets’ season will depend on finding a couple guys to fill in for guys that graduated up front on the O Line, Graves said, including all-state players Landon Bull and Jude Finch. “It will take a lot to fill the holes that those two leave on both sides of the ball,” Graves said. Junior Colton Schwigen returns for his second full season at quarterback, setting school records for passing yards (1,960) and total touchdowns (33) last year. He has totaled 1,700 yards rushing with 25 TDs and 3,000 yards passing with 30 TDs in his first two seasons. “He’s been able to produce with pure talent and athleticism and I think he’s coming along pretty good mentally in his game, which is going to make him even better,” Graves said. He has his top targets to throw in senior Owen Steele (53770, 12 TDs), along with Liam Steele (22-305, TD) and Chase Wheatley (19, 225 yards, 1 TD). Other top returning players are seniors Tanner McKeag (T/ DE), and junior Thomas Sowards (RB/ LB). With lack of depth, Graves said the Rockets “will have to be lucky and stay away from injuries.”

Go EASTLAND COUGARS!

Conference Preview 2025

Northwest Upstate Illini

By Drake Lansman

DAKOTA INDIANS

Coach: Eric Didesch

2024 record: 0-9, 0-8

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Du-Pec, Sept. 5 Forreston; Sept. 12 at Stockton; Sept. 19 Lena-Winslow; Sept. 26 Rockford Lutheran; Oct. 3 at Fulton; Oct. 10 Morrison; Oct. 17 at Galena; Oct. 24 Eastland-Pearl City.

Worth noting: The Indians are coming off an 0-9 season in which they were shut out the first four games. They gave up an average of 62 points per game and fell to Stockton 104-40. They last reached the playoffs in 2022 when they finished 7-5.

EASTLAND-PEARL CITY WILDCATZ

Coach: Jared McNutt

2024 record: 7-3, 6-2

Schedule: Aug. 29 Fulton; Sept. 5 at Morrison; Sept. 12 Galena; Sept. 19 at Fennimore (Wisc.); Sept. 26 at Du-Pec; Oct. 3 Forreston; Oct. 10 at Stockton; Oct. 17 Lena-Winslow; Oct. 24 at Dakota

Worth noting: The Wildcatz took third in the conference last year and had their best season since they went 12-1 in 2018. They lost all-conference quarterback and utility player Adam Awender to graduation, but return senior standouts Zy Haverland (TE/ OLB), Will Birchen (LB/OL), Draven Zier (RB/DB), Teigan Dyson (OL/DL) and Brody Voegeli (OL/DL).

DURAND-PECATONICA RIVERMAN

Coach: Kyle DeMus

2024 record: 10-2, 7-1

Schedule: Aug. 29 Dakota; Sept. 5 at Fulton; Sept. 12 Morrison; Sept. 19 at Galena; Sept. 26 E-PC; Oct. 3 Byron; Oct. 10 at Forreston; Oct. 17 Stockton; Oct. 24 at Lena-Winslow

Worth noting: Losing two all-staters to graduation in QB Cooper Hoffman and WR Jaxon Diedrich, the Rivermen won 10 games for the first time as a co-op last season. They reached the quarterfinals in Class 3A. Coach Kyle DeMus says he looks forward to the team settling into its own identity.

Among Du-Pec’s top returners, Justin Anderson was a first-team all-NUIC linebacker and Dylan White was a first-team center last season.

“This is the most player-led team I’ve

been around at the high school level. They are unselfish and committed to each other,” DeMus said. “Our expectation remains the same - compete for the NUIC championship and [go] deep into the playoffs.”

FULTON STEAMERS

Coach: Patrick Lower 2024 record: 4-5, 3-5

Schedule: Aug. 29 at E-PC; Sept. 5 Du-Pec; Sept. 12 at Forreston; Sept. 19 Stockton; Sept. 26 at Lena-Winslow; Oct. 3 Dakota; Oct. 10 Hazel Green Southwestern (Wisc.); Oct. 17 at Morrison; Oct. 24 Galena

Worth noting: The Steamers fell just short of reaching the playoffs for the eighth straight year last season. Braedon Meyers stepped up late at QB the last three games, throwing for over 600 yards and 11 TDs. Coach Lower says Mason Kuebel (RB/DL), Jonah Lutz (RB/DB), Landon Boonstra (OL) and Kody Schipper (OL) are also among his top players this season. The Steamers return seven starters on offense and six on defense.

“We are fortunate this year to have a real good mix of veteran players and some young players mixed in,” Lower said. “I am excited to see what transpires with our lineups on both sides of the ball as we feel very comfortable with depth at a lot of positions.”

FORRESTON CARDINALS

Coach: Kenyon Janicke

2024 record: 2-7, 1-7

Schedule: Aug. 29 Lena-Winslow; Sept. 5 at Dakota; Sept. 12 Fulton; Sept. 19 at Morrison; Sept. 26 Galena; Oct. 3 at E-PC; Oct. 10 Du-Pec; Oct. 18 at LeRoy; Oct. 24 at Stockton

Worth noting: The Cardinals had their first losing season since 2009 last season due to some youth and inexperience. But Forreston brings back 10 starters on offense and eight on defense.

Coach Janicke says Hunter DeWall (OL/DL), Brady Gill (QB/DB), Brady Zipse (OL/DL), Jonathan Milnes (RB/ LB) and Mickey Probst (RB/DB) are among his best players this season.

“It is clear we did not meet our expectations last season,” Janicke said. “As a result, we have had a resurgence of energy and commitment since last November, especially with our senior

leaders. We have a group of kids who are looking to redeem themselves and once again earn a spot in the Class 1A playoff bracket.”

GALENA PIRATES

Coach: Kyle Knight

2024 record: 7-5, 4-4

Schedule: Aug. 29 Morrison; Sept. 5 Benton (Wisc.); Sept. 12 at E-PC; Sept. 19 Du-Pec; Sept. 26 at Forreston; Oct. 3 Stockton; Oct. 10 at Lena-Winslow; Oct. 17 Dakota; Oct. 24 at Fulton

Worth noting: The Pirates reached the playoffs for the first time since 2021 last season. First-team all-NUIC receiver Owen Hefel and QB/defensive back Roman Romer are among Galena’s top returning players. Coach Knight also listed Gus Nack (OL/LB), Juan Dorantes (OL/DL) and Drew Koenigs (TE/ DE) as players to watch for.

LENA-WINSLOW PANTHERS

Coach: Ric Arand

2024 record: 13-1, 8-0

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Forreston; Sept. 5 Stockton; Sept. 12 at Rochelle; Sept. 19 at Dakota; Sept. 26 Fulton; Oct. 3 at Morrison; Oct. 10 Galena; Oct. 17 at E-PC; Oct. 24 Pecatonica

Worth noting: The Panthers have been a powerhouse in Class 1A, taking home six state titles since 2010 and placing second the last two years. They return a three-headed monster in the backfield with Alec Schlichting, Aiden Wild and Koby Kearns. Schlichting and Wild combined for over 3,330 yards rushing with 49 touchdowns.

Coach Arand also listed Ganon Dunker (OL/DL) and Miles Mahon (TE/LB) as among his top players.

MORRISON MUSTANGS

Coach: Nathan Vandermyde 2024 record: 3-6, 2-6

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Galena; Sept. 5 E-PC; Sept. 12 at Du-Pec’ Sept. 19 Forreston; Sept. 26 at Stockton; Oct. 3 Lena-Winslow; Oct. 10 at Dakota; Oct. 17 vs. Fulton, Oct. 24 Ottawa Marquette

Worth noting: The Mustangs are looking for better results in their second season in the NUIC. Morrison returns a speedy backfield led by state track champions Brady Anderson and Levi Milder, along with a returning sec-

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL Lena-Winslow’s Alec Schlichting runs the ball against Altho Catholic Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, in the class 1A football state nal.

ond-team all-NUIC linebacker in Noah Robbins.

Vandermyde also listed seniors Collin Renkes (WR/LB) and Carson White (QB/DB) as his top returning players.

STOCKTON BLACKHAWKS

Coach: Sean Downey 2024 record: 7-4, 5-3

Schedule: Aug. 29 Benton (Wisc.); Sept. 5 at Lena-Winslow, Sept. 12 Dakota; Sept. 19 at Fulton; Sept. 26 Morrison; Oct. 3 at Galena; Oct. 10 E-PC; Oct. 17 at Du-Pec; Oct. 24 Forreston

Worth noting: The Blackhawks look to have high expectations with nine starters back on offense and 10 starters back on defense.

Coach Downey says his top returning players are Jeremiah Luke (OL/ DL), Mark Detweiler (RB/LB), Eli Larson (TE/OLB), Carter Blair (RB/DB) and Jack Mensendike (RB/LB).

“We hope to be competitive in our conference, which is always one of the best in the state,” Downey said. “Lewin is the favorite in our conference until someone beats them.”

By Drake Lansman

ALDEN-HEBRON GIANTS

Coach: John Lalor

2024 record: 5-4

Top players: Fabian Carreno, sr., TE; JP Stewart, sr., QB; Caleb Linneman, so., RB/S; Jack Stewart, so., TE/RB/LB; Louie Bageanis, sr., RB/LB

Schedule: Aug. 29 Orangeville; Sept. 5 at Cambridge; Sept. 12 at Hiawatha; Sept. 19 at Rockford Christian; Sept. 26 Rockford Christian Life; Oct. 3 South Beloit; Oct. 10 Harvest-Westminster; Oct. 17 at Milledgeville; Oct. 24 Ashton-Franklin Center

AMBOY-LAMOILLE-OHIO CLIPPERS

Coach: Scott Payne

2024 record: 12-1

Top players: Evan Flanagan, jr., TE/ DT; Trevor Stenzal, jr., OL/DT; Cody Winn, sr., DB/WR; Cadien Heath, jr., RB/LB; Jose Lopez, jr., RB/LB; Colt McCoy, jr., RB/DB

Schedule: Aug. 29 Milledgeville, Sept. 5 at Rockford Christian Life, Sept. 12 Bushnell-Prairie City, Sept. 19 Flanagan-Cornell/Woodland, Sept. 26 at Galva, Oct. 3 at Peoria Heights, Oct. 10 Cambridge, Oct. 17 West Prairie, Oct. 24 at West Central

ASHTON-FRANKLIN CENTER

RAIDERS

Coach: Josh Stone

2024 record: 0-9

Schedule: Aug. 29 at West Prairie, Sept. 5 Biggsville West Central, Sept. 12 Milledgeville, Sept. 20 at Orangeville, Sept. 26 Polo, Oct. 3 at River Ridge, Oct. 10 at West Carroll, Oct. 17 Danville Schlarman, Oct. 24 at Alden-Hebron

FLANAGAN-CORNELL/WOODLAND FALCONS

Coach: Todd Reed

2024 record: 6-4

Top players: Logan Ruddy, sr., QB/RB/ DB; Oliver Weber, sr., OL/DL; Brezdyn Simons, jr., QB/TE/DL; Leelynd Durbin, sr., RB/LB; Jose Torrez, sr., OL/DL

Schedule: Aug. 30 at Harvest-Westminster; Sept. 5 Polo; Sept. 12 at Galva; Sept. 19 at Amboy/LaMoille/Ohio; Sept. 26 Cambridge; Oct. 3 at West Prairie; Oct. 10 West Central; Oct. 17 at Peoria Heights; Oct. 24 Bushnell-Prairie City

8-Man Preview

HIAWATHA

HAWKS

Coach: Kenny McPeek

2024 record: 2-7

Top players: Aiden Cooper, sr., QB/DE; Tim Pruitt, jr., RB/CB; Colby Wylde, WR/OLB, so.; Alex Panzer, C/DT, sr.; Issac Ramangkoun, TE/OLB, sr. Schedule: Aug. 30 at Galva, Sept. 5 at Westminster Christian, Sept. 12 Alden-Hebron, Sept. 19 at Christian Life/ Keith Country Day/Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Sept. 26 South Beloit, Oct. 4 Schlarman, Oct. 11 at Rockford Christian, Oct. 17 Polo, Oct. 24 at West Carroll

MILLEDGEVILLE MISSILES

Coach: Jason Wroble

2024 record: 11-2

Top players: Karter Livengood, sr., OL/ DL; Spencer Nye, sr., RB/LB; Konner Johnson, sr., RB/TE/LB; Kyson Francis, so., QB; Evan Schenck, sr., TE/DB Schedule: Aug. 29 at Amboy, Sept. 5 Madison Abundant Life (Wisc.), Sept. 12 at A-FC, Sept. 19 at Polo, Sept. 26 River Ridge, Oct. 3 West Carroll, Oct. 10 Orangeville, Oct. 17 Alden-Hebron, Oct. 24 at Rockford Christian

MILFORD/CISSNA PARK BEARCATS

Coach: Clint Schwartz

2024 record: 6-4

Top players: Dierks Neukomm, sr., QB; Mario Martinez, jr., RB/LB; Jaden Souders, sr., OL; Coy Lucht, sr., LB; Skylar Estay, jr., WR/DB Schedule: Aug. 30 at Schlarman, Sept. 5 St. Thomas More, Sept. 12 Oblong, Sept. 20 at Martinsville, Sept. 27 Pawnee/Lincolnwood, Oct. 4 Meridian, Oct. 10 at Blue Ridge/DeLand-Weldon, Oct. 16 St. Anne, Oct. 24 at Unity Christian/Mt. Pulaski

POLO MARCOS

Coach: Ted Alston

2024 record: 11-1

Top players: Wyatt Plancho, sr., OL/ DL; Damon Rowe, sr., DE/TE; JT Stephenson, sr., QB/LB; Korbin Cavanaugh, sr., TE/DE; Quinton Hart, sr., RB/ LB

Schedule: Aug. 29 Bushnell-Praire City, Sept. 5 at Flanagan-Cornell/Woodland, Sept. 12 at West Carroll, Sept. 19 Milledgeville, Sept. 26 at A-FC, Oct. 3 Orangeville, Oct. 10 River Ridge, Oct. 17 at Hiawatha, Oct. 24 South Beloit

See 8-MAN page 28

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Milledgeville’s Karter Livengood is tackled by Amboy’s Brayden Klein during the 2024 Illinois 8-man Football Association championship in Monmouth. Livengood, a senior, is back to help lead the Missiles after stepping up at QB down the stretch last season.

Amboy

New leaders ready to step up for defending 8-man state champion Amboy

By Drake Lansman

On the last day of school last season, graduating senior and four-year standout Quinn Leffelman left a message on the whiteboard at Amboy.

He wrote, “When you’ve got something to prove, there’s nothing greater than a challenge.”

The message and legacy that the allstate first-team defensive end, all-conference fullback, multi-sport athlete and two-time I8FA state champion left helps illustrate the culture of success that the Amboy-LaMoille-Ohio football co-op has had in recent years.

With new players hungry to step up for the defending champions, coach Scott Payne looks forward to seeing what the next crop of players can do. Amboy’s JV squad went 13-0 the last two seasons.

“These younger kids see what the last two teams did. They see what it takes

to be successful,” Payne said. “It’s nice to have that kind of foundation in the program. These kids spent all summer long working hard, not missing lifting or conditioning.”

Having leaders like Leffelman and Jones pave the way has helped the Clippers be one of the top teams in the I8FA.

“It’s huge to have kids like that,” Payne said. “Quinn passed the leadership role to Cody Winn, now he’s a senior.”

Winn, a returning receiver and defensive back, is among Amboy’s players to watch this season. Juniors Cadien Heath, Jose Lopez and Colt McCoy look to lead the backfield this season.

Tight end/defensive tackle Evan Flanagan and lineman Trevor Stenzal are also part of a solid junior class.

The Clippers have three returning starters on offense and four on defense. Payne says the team may not be

LUCK Area Teams

as deep as it’s been in the past with 17 juniors and seniors on the team. He said team speed and the offensive line look to be strengths early on.

Junior Tanner Welch looks to take over at QB following the graduation of Eddie Jones. Jones was first-team all-state last season after throwing for over 1,000 yards with 17 TDs.

Amboy, Milledgeville and Polo are expected to among the top teams in the league again this year. The Clippers

also had a Week 0 scrimmage against Pawnee, another state semifinalist last season.

Amboy will be tested right out of the gates as it hosts Milledgeville in Week 1 on Aug. 29. The Clippers beat the Missiles 42-14 in last year’s I8FA state title game.

“To have them Week 1 is a great challenge for us to see where we’re at,” Payne said. “We always want to play really good football teams.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Amboy’s Cody Winn celebrates the Clippers’ win over Milledgeville last season in the 8-man football championship in Monmouth. Winn is back this season to help lead the Clippers.

Ashton-Franklin Center

First-year A-FC coach Josh Stone encouraged by increase in numbers

1997 Oregon grad wants to grow program’s numbers

By Drake Lansman

When Josh Stone saw football numbers in the area dwindling, he was worried about the future of the sport for the Ashton-Franklin Center community.

He decided to help do something about it.

“I wanted to get involved and help get that program built back up where I thought it could be,” he said.

Coaching for the first time last season as Ashton-Franklin Center’s offensive coordinator under veteran coach Dave Smith, the 1997 Oregon High School graduate Stone was able to learn from a coach in Smith who has led 10 different schools, including Dixon for nine seasons.

Stone said of Shafer. “It’s nice to have a younger guy on the staff to kind of get the boys ready.”

A-FC is in its fourth season playing 8-man football.

Starting the season with 13 players and losing one its first game, the team was not sure if it would even be able to finish the season. Although they finished 0-9, A-FC fought to the end with two of its losses by four points or fewer.

“Dave mentored me and prepared me to be head coach and taught me some of the stuff that you don’t realize comes along with being the head coach,” Stone said. “He helped me develop a system. He taught me a lot.

“I don’t think I could have done it without him there last year.”

Smith planned to only coach temporarily, helping Stone get in position to be the next head coach and help the program where it needed to be. Dixon grad Jacob Shafer also joins the staff this season. He played quarterback at Beloit College from 2021-24.

“He gives us a little more energy,”

“and they want to go out there and prove that they’re better than what they showed on the field last year.”

He said the team is confident and believes it has the potential to compete. The Raiders also have a number of freshmen that hopefully develop into the future.

“We didn’t get the wins, but we had some games that we were in,” he said. “Just build off some of those successes from last year.”

Stone said the team struggled particularly on defense last season, so he hopes to make some adjustments on that side of the ball to help stay in more games.

He said consistency will be the main objective in order to have success this season.

“Eight-man is a big play league,” he said. “If we can limit the big play and we can hit it ourselves, that puts us in a much better position.

“I was really proud of the kids. They kept their heads high. You didn’t hear anybody complain,” Stone said.

“We had kids that were exhausted that stuck it out, fought the whole game through. Even though they’re playing offense, defense and special teams.

“We had one kid that came off the field and everybody else kind of went both ways and special teams the whole game.”

Stone says thankfully things are moving in a positive direction for the team.

“This year thankfully we’re up to 19,” he said. “I’m hoping to get to 20 before the first game.”

Stone said returning players have worked hard in the weight room. The offensive line looks to be a strength, anchored by Lane Messer, Musi Mimini and Colin Stone.

“We’ve got kids that are bigger, faster, stronger this year,” Stone said,

Bureau Valley

Bureau Valley aims to get back to playo s with new coach

Pat Elder has had 18 playoff teams in 23 seasons as a head coach

By Kevin Hieronymus

There’s going to be a lot of new looks in the Bureau Valley Storm huddle this season.

And on the sideline.

Pat Elder, 52, who has had 18 playoff teams in 23 seasons as a head coach with stops at Sherrard, Richmond-Burton and Ridgewood, has taken over the reigns of the Storm program.

He has spent the summer implementing his playbook.

“The kids have really been receptive, and so have the coaches. They’re pretty eager,” Elder said. “I feel like we have pieces. We say to the kids, ‘Right now, you’re where you’re at.’ We won’t ever move a guy unless we think it’s better for them or better for the team.

“I told them the team that gets on the bus and goes to St. Bede (for Week 1) will not look near the same as the team that gets on the bus seven or eight weeks later. I think it will change and evolve as the season goes on.”

Seniors Brandon Carrington and Jacob Bolin said the transition is going well.

“We’re learning pretty fast. We’re picking it up,” Carrington said. “It’s a lot different than last year, but we’re picking up pretty quick. There’s some things we’ve got to smooth out, but we’ll get there.”

Elder said the Storm’s biggest strength lies up front on the line.

“I really like our depth up front. We’ve got the most returning there,” he said. ”I think that’s going to be good for us on offense and defense both, and allow us to adjust as needed and do the things we want to do.”

Anchoring the Storm front line will be Bolin and juniors Brad Schoff, Dakarai Martin and Blake Foster. Elder said Martin and Foster will “get good opportunities at tight end and do some things there.”

Carrington and junior Aidan Litherland are working at stepping in for three-year starter Bryce Helms at quarterback.

“We’re going to figure out how we’re going to use what we’ve got that makes us the best. They both [have] things

Bureau Valley’s Blake Foster runs the ball against Mendota on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023 at Bureau Valley High School.

they do well,” Elder said. “Brandon has worked hard and put himself physically in position to play and is very coachable, just works to improve.”

Senior Tyce Barkman and breakout candidate Dane Stewart along with junior classmates Tyler Donnelly and Tucker Shane assume rushing duties from the graduated all-conference Elijah Endress.

“We’ve got some young kids who may help us as the season goes on,” Elder said.

With just 34 in the program, the Storm will utilize many two-way players.

“It’s not about playing your best 11. It’s about playing your best 16 or 17,” Elder said, “Over nine games, it pans out for you in attrition and in reps both for the guys. We’ll do what we can to get as many guys on the field and still

be as good a football team that we think we can.”

Elder’s task will be to guide the Storm back into the playoffs for the first time since 2016 and first postseason win since 2008.

“Everything we do is based on efficiency. That’s going to be key for us,” he said. “We’ve got to eliminate turnovers and eliminate penalties. If we’re able to do that, that ought to leave us in position to compete and have opportunities in games.

“I’d say a big thing is finishing things off, whether it’d be finishing drives, finishing halves, finishing games. We’ve got to fall forward in everything we do.”

Bolin and Carrington are aiming high.

“I really think we can make the

playoffs,” Bolin said. “It’s going to take more than two guys on the field. It’s going to take everybody. Whether you’re on JV, the scout defense or offense, they need to really step it up and work the starters.”

“I believe we will better than we’ve been the past few years and will make the playoffs. Just got to keep working at it every day,” Carrington said.

Elder is well-versed in the old Lincoln Trail Conference, playing for his dad’s (hall of fame coach John) Alexis Cardinals, but will face some new teams in the Lincoln Trail-Prairieland merger’s Large School Division. He graduated in 1991 from Alexis, playing on his dad’s last playoff team.

The Storm will kick off the season Friday, Aug. 29, at former Three Rivers rival St. Bede.

PHOTO CREDIT: SCOTT ANDERSON

Dixon

Dixon looking to reload after stellar season

Dukes hope to pick up where they left off in 2024’s run to

By Ty Reynolds

Following one of the best seasons in program history, Dixon doesn’t expect too much drop-off in 2025.

And while several key names are missing from the skill positions, it’s all going to start up front for the Dukes this fall.

Dixon brings back four starters on the offensive line in Dylan Bopes, Chase Simpson, Exzadrain Diaz and Owen LeSage, and five players who made starts on the defensive line in Bopes, Exzavier Diaz, Bene Baratta, Jayden Neal and Brady Lawrence. That experience in the trenches will

be key as the Dukes try to replace an all-state quarterback and their top four wide receivers.

“It’s huge to have that, and I hope it mitigates those key losses,” Dixon coach Jared Shaner said. “As coaches, we’ve kind of talked about, at least going into Week 1, what our strengths are, and hopefully it proves out that our O-line and D-line are our strengths. We’ve got quite a few returning starters up front, lost some really good skill guys again, but that’s kind of been the m.o. the last few years. I’ve said it before, that’s what good programs do; they reload, and I hope we’re getting our program to that point.”

While the loss of QB Cullen Shaner (1,971 passing yards, 527 rushing yards, 37 total TDs) and receivers Eli Davidson (791 yards, 16 total TDs), Tyson Dambman (507 yards, 6 total TDs), Gabe Rowley (317 yards, 8 TDs) and James Simpson (252 yards, 3 TDs) will leave some big shoes to fill, Dixon brings back its top three running backs in Landon Knigge (1,268 yards, 18 TDs), Owen Belzer (275 yards, 6 TDs) and Logan Mershon (221 yards, 3 TDs).

With those experienced runners attacking from behind an experienced line, the Dukes hope to make the transition easier for junior quarterback Jag-

FOOTBALL

ger Kemp in his first season as a starter.

“We’ve still got good running backs and wide receivers. Obviously, we’re going to run the ball, but as soon as teams pick up on that run, we’re going to throw it, just like the past years,” Knigge said. “We’ve got new wide receivers, but they’re still good; they had some varsity reps last year.”

Defensively, Sauk Valley Media Player of the Year Davidson was the straw that stirred the drink for Dixon, but he had a talented understudy in Jake Whelan, who was second to Davidson with 113 tackles. Throw in returning defensive back Jake Zepezauer with those linemen and the Dukes

have experience at all three levels.

“It’s really going to be a good look for us, because we’ve got a really strong D-line. We were strong up front last year, and that really helped us, and a lot of those guys are back,” Whelan said. “That line really helps us succeed against the run game, because that’s mostly what our conference does.

“In camp, we were in 11-on-11, and everyone was just going crazy making plays. The atmosphere was great, everyone just excited and ready to play.”

Dixon outscored its opponents 543131 last season, scoring at least 35 points in 10 of its 12 games; it put up at least 40 points eight times and at least 50 points in six games.

While those scoring numbers might be hard to match, the experience in the trenches should keep the Dukes from missing a beat.

And after tying the school record with a 10-2 finish last fall and their third trip to the quarterfinals, the Dukes are hungry for more.

“We’ve got something to prove this year,” Knigge said. “We got stopped kind of late [in that quarterfinal playoff game], made a few mistakes. But now we’re going to go full blast and get there.”

The playoff streak has stretched to 10 straight seasons, and this group doesn’t want to see that snapped.

“For us now, continuing the playoff streak that we’re on, that’s the bare minimum, that’s the standard,” Shaner said. “We’re just pushing to get farther again this year. Ultimately, the last couple of years, I truly feel we were among the top eight or 10 teams in Class 4A, and a lot of it comes down to health and execution. I think the last eight teams in 4A last year, anybody probably could have beaten anybody on any given day.

“So certainly the goal for this year is to be back in those same situations, and maybe a bounce goes your way and you’re playing in a semifinal game or a state championship game.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Dixon’s Landon Knigge leaps over a would-be Marengo tackler last season in the Class 4A football playo s in Dixon.

Eastland-Pearl City Leadership key for Eastland-Pearl City this season

Wildcatz hope veterans can set tone for another run to playoffs

By Ty Reynolds

After a return to the playoffs last season, Eastland-Pearl City wants to make the postseason a habit again.

It’s going to take a blend of veteran leadership and new faces to do so.

Last season’s 7-3 finish ended a four-year playoff drought, following a stretch where the Wildcatz earned a postseason berth 19 times in 22 seasons from 1998-2018 – but a first-round loss to Rockridge in Class 2A saw several key starters’ careers come to an end.

Now, the guys who are coming back from that team are providing guidance and setting the tone for the newcomers to step in and step up.

“They were showing some leadership skills last year. We’ve had a leadership council and we’ve met with those guys to kind of teach them how we want them to be leaders, and they’ve really taken a big step in the leadership category,” eighth-year head coach Jared McNutt said. “I think they’re speaking the same language that we are, and that’s really, really nice. Everything that we say they reiterate, and it kind of gets the message sent double, basically, through us and them.”

That group is led by second-team allstate linebacker Will Birchen, who will also anchor the offensive line with twoway lineman Teigan Dyson. First-team all-conference running back Draven Zier is also back, and he will play de-

fensive back as well. Zyacn Haverland returns after earning first-team all-conference honors as a linebacker, tight end and punter a year ago.

Brody Simons, an honorable mention all-NUIC linebacker last year, will step in at fullback this fall, and McNutt is also looking for guard/linebacker Clayton Downs and receiver/defensive back Sawyer Williams to play big roles this season.

Veteran leadership will be key as the Wildcatz break in a new quarterback in sophomore Deacon Hoffmaster.

“I’m hoping that we can keep our guys rolling. Even though we lost some key players to graduation, we have a lot of guys who like stepping up and filling in,” McNutt said. “I think that we’re very fast, our team speed is good and running the football obviously has to be a focal point – and obviously stopping the run, too. I think we showed that last year, and I think our experience coming back helps us do both of those things.”

Offensively, Zier will be the focal point, and McNutt feels that if the ground game can get going, there are lots of things EPC can build around that.

“I’d say giving him space is the key because if he hits the second level, he’s tough to stop,” McNutt said. “It’s going to be tough for a defensive back to bring him down. So if we give him space to run, I think that’s going to be really key for us.”

Eastland-Pearl City’s Draven Zier

game last season in Pearl City.

runs

Defensively, the Wildcatz must match their opponents’ physicality at all three levels – and in arguably the best 1A conference in the state, it begins up front.

“I think our defensive line is where it starts,” McNutt said. “We’ve got some guys that we really like, but we’ve got to make sure we’re consistent across the board. We’ve got to be tough in the trenches, and making sure that we hold our gaps.”

While the Wildcatz would like to earn another trip to the playoffs,

McNutt said that the big-picture goal isn’t at the front of his players’ minds. Instead, it’s more important to focus on the day-by-day, week-by-week accomplishments.

“We talk about the big picture, but I think it’s obviously a step-by-step process for us,” he said. “Our guys have really bought into making sure that we stack good practices on top of each other, and then that will translate to the games. The little things will transition into the big things as the season goes on.”

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON

(22)

up the eld against Forreston during an NUIC

Erie-Prophetstown

Erie-Prophetstown hopes to continue upward trend

By Terry Duckett

Year two of the Tyler Whitebread regime led to Erie-Prophetstown making ideal progress.

From three wins in Whitebread’s debut campaign of 2023, the Panthers returned to the IHSA playoffs for just the second time in a decade. Their 5-5 season ended with a hard-fought 14-6 loss to Bismarck-Henning/Rossville-Alvin in Class 2A’s first round.

With a new season just around the corner, Whitebread is hoping that Erie-Prophetstown can not only continue to trend in an upward direction, but be a force to reckon with in the Three Rivers Conference’s Rock Division.

“That’s the goal, to continue what we did last year and do it better,” said the 2002 Newman graduate. “I felt that we lacked consistency from game to game last season. But the guys are excited about getting back to the playoffs. That’s a big thing. We want that to be the norm every year.”

Last fall, the Panthers finished 2-3 in the Three Rivers Rock to finish in a three-way tie for third place with a pair of 4-5 clubs in Mercer County and Riverdale. A tough 21-18 setback at Riverdale in Week 6 prevented E-P from posting a winning record in the league.

“We’re hoping to be able to compete with the top teams (in the TRAC Rock) — the Newmans, the Rockridges — every year,” Whitebread stated. “We want to be at the top of the conference. That’s the biggest thing.”

Last year’s return to the postseason for the first time since 2021, when Whitebread was on Jesse Abbott’s staff for an E-P club that went 8-3 and reached 2A’s second round, is also an event the Panthers want to see become a regular one.

“We’ve got a nice group of returning starters, so we have experience on our side, and coming off a playoff berth gives us more confidence,” said the third-year head coach. “With the off-season we’ve had and the work we’ve put in, that puts us in that position.”

The Panthers do lose one of their top weapons in running back/defensive back Demetree Larsen, a unanimous first-team All-TRAC Rock selection last fall on both sides of the ball.

But as Whitebread said, the E-P cupboard is far from bare. Among the top returning starters are a pair of two-way All-TRAC Rock second team standouts in junior lineman Derek Naftzger and Caleb Reymer.

Also back in the fold for the Panthers are the senior honorable mention All-Conference trio of wide receiver Connor Keegan, linebacker Gaven Adams and defensive back Keegan Winckler. Whitebread also looks to junior Tristan Hovey to fill Larsen’s shoes in the backfield.

“In the past, (returning) experience has not been as big a strength for us as it is this year,” said Whitebread, who in addition to Larsen lost linebacker Amen Barron (second team All-TRAC Rock) and offensive guard Jesse Liv-

Erie-Prophetstown’s

2024 in Prophetstown.

ingston (honorable mention) to graduation.

“Going into games and playing well consistently, that’s the biggest hurdle for us to overcome right now. It’s a process; it’s not going to happen overnight.”

The process kicks into gear for Erie-Prophetstown on the night of Friday, Aug. 29, when it kicks off the season at home with a Three Rivers crossover matchup against Kewanee, a Class 4A playoff qualifier six times in the last nine seasons.

The Panthers jump into Rock Division play at the deep end on the afternoon of Saturday, Sept. 13, heading to Sterling to take on the Newman Comets.

“Top to bottom, the conference is going to be tough,” said Whitebread. “For sure, you have to go through Newman and Rockridge, but you’ve also got Mercer County, Riverdale’s improved, and Orion’s got their quarterback (senior and second-team All-Conference pick Kale Filler) back.

“Every team on our side of the conference is going to be tough. There’ll be several games that could come down to the fourth quarter.”

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON

Tristan Hovey (22) runs with the ball against Hall on Friday, Sept. 6,

Forreston

Forreston learning from growing pains Cardinals hope experience will pay off after rough 2024

By Ty Reynolds

There were a lot of new faces on the field for Forreston last season, and the youth and inexperience showed as the Cardinals went 2-7 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2009.

But by taking their lumps last season, the Cards believe they’ll be in a much better position to return to their usual standard this fall.

“We were real young last year, just a lot of inexperience, and then that leads to things like guys being on the field maybe when it’s too soon or too early,” fifth-year head coach Keynon Janicke said. “But we kind of took care of that last year by getting guys on the field so they’d be ready for this year.”

Tight end/defensive lineman Hunter DeWall was the only all-conference player for Forreston last season. But the Cardinals bring back 10 starters on offense (four linemen, two tight ends, three running backs and a quarterback) and eight on defense (three linemen, two linebackers and three defensive backs), meaning the inexperience from last year has turned into veteran presence this season.

“Last year, the problem was our team was really young – a lot of sophomores and a couple freshmen on varsity – and this year they’re all maturing,” DeWall said. “If they keep maturing, that will help for this year and next year, and just keep it going.”

Not only do the Cardinals now have a lot of varsity experience, but those players are hungry for success after learning the hard way last fall.

“A lot of these guys are ready to step up,” Janicke said. “Our season ended, and we’ve been in the weight room since November, and I haven’t had to do a lot of motivating for that. We’ve got upperclassmen that are ready to lead the way.”

Playing for a program with three state titles, two more trips to the semifinals, and an additional pair of quarterfinal berths since 2011, these Cardinals are aware of the legacy that’s been passed down to them. After a down year, they’re ready to get back to the

team that went 119-32 in the 13 years between 2011 and 2023.

To do that, DeWald said it will take a return to physical play and hard work, as well as learning lessons from last season. The biggest thing: finishing off drives and finishing off tackles.

“We just have to be physical,” he said. “Last year, a lot of people on our team were afraid to hit, and that cost us several games. We had so many games that were within reach where we weren’t physical enough, and we couldn’t finish them off and get the win.

“We’ve had a strong system in place for a long time now, and we’ll just keep running that until it doesn’t work. It makes it really easy for us in the offseason, because it’s just the same thing as last year, but working harder to achieve what we want. It’s just adding more to what we worked on last year,

and getting better.”

For their part, Janicke and his coaches realize that they can’t just run it back after a two-win season, especially after seeing halftime leads turn into losses three different times last year because of second-half struggles where “we were just flat,” Janicke said.

But the year of experience, the dedication he’s seen from the players throughout the offseason and the adjustments the coaching staff has made since last November have Janicke thinking about a strong turnaround this fall.

“If we clean ourselves up, if we fix what we need to fix, the wins will come,” Janicke said. “And we have to change a little bit, we can’t just keep doing the same things that we’re doing. We’ve got to be aware that there have to be some changes in some areas. We can’t be ignorant as coaches to that fact.

So we’ve tried our best to make some adjustments offensively and defensively, and then just change our mindset to stop letting things happen to us and just be physical football players.”

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON Forreston’s Kayden Loomis (23) looks for blocks against Eastland-Pearl City in a NUIC game at Pearl City last season.

Fulton Fulton hopes to build o strong nish after missing playo s

By Terry Duckett

Over the past decade, Fulton’s presence in the playoffs has been a given.

From 2014-2023, only once have the Steamers been on the outside looking in. That was in 2015 when Fulton went 4-5 to come up just short of extending its season to a 10th week.

A run of seven consecutive playoff appearances came to a halt last year. Three losses in its first four games, followed by back-to-back losses to start October added up to a 4-5 finish.

“All five of our losses were to teams that ended up in the playoffs,” Fulton coach Patrick Lower said. “But at the end of the day, we didn’t play well enough through to have a Week 10.”

With a new season on the horizon, Lower hopes Fulton can mark its fifth year as members of the Northwest Upstate Illini Conference by beginning a new run.

“Towards the end of last season, we were playing our best football,” said Lower, who begins his 19th season at the Steamers helm just five wins shy of the 100-win mark. “It just didn’t work out that we were as sharp as we needed to be, and in the NUIC, that’s not going to get it done.

“Walking off the field at 2-5 (after a 60-36 loss to eventual Class 3A quarterfinalist Durand-Pecatonica in Week 7), we as coaches told ourselves that for these last two weeks, we had to get the guys ready to go, even though there wasn’t going to be a Week 10. I’m proud of the way our guys bounced back.”

Finishing with wins over Knoxville and longtime rival Morrison, the latter a 41-7 decision in the teams’ first Wooden Shoe Bowl meeting since the COVID-shortened 2020-21 spring campaign, was an ideal way to salvage a playoff-less season as Fulton placed sixth in the nine-team NUIC with a 3-5 mark.

“There was all kinds of pride for Week 9, playing for the Wooden Shoe,” Lower said. “We didn’t have an issue getting the guys up and ready to

go for that one.”

Looking ahead, the Steamers will have some key holes to fill in their bid to get back on the right side of .500 and into the playoff picture.

Among their losses to graduation were a pair of first-team All-NUIC standouts in quarterback Dom Kramer and lineman Josiah Heald and all-conference second-team linebacker Skylier Crooks.

However, Fulton does return an important player in senior Braedon Meyers, who stepped in under center for an injured Kramer in the final third of the season and threw for more than 600 yards and 11 touchdowns in a 2-1 closing stretch.

Joining Meyers, an All-NUIC firstteam selection, will be senior lineman and honorable mention pick Mason Kuebel. Kuebel and classmate Jonah Lutz will join Meyers in the offensive backfield, with Lower also looking to senior linemen Wyatt Becker and Kody Schipper and senior wide receiver/defensive back Landen Leu as key contributors.

“Going into last year, we were somewhat young with some veterans, and we’re that way again this year,” Lower said. “One of the things we always talk about is leaving the field at the end of practice better than when we walked on it at the start.

“We don’t talk much about last year, but it’s in both of our heads, the coaches as well as the seniors. They don’t want to be the group to not make the playoffs in their junior and senior year.”

A charter member of the Three Rivers Conference, Fulton will kick off its fifth season of NUIC football Aug. 29, traveling to Eastland-Pearl City before its home opener the following week against Du-Pec.

“I think it’s been a good move for us,” Lower said. “Du-Pec is a solid 3A team, but it always starts with Lena-Winslow, which has been the cream of the crop in 1A the last 15 to 20 years. We’re hoping to be right in there with those teams.”

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON

Fulton’s Braedon Meyers runs with the ball against Durand-Pecatonica at Pecatonica.

Milledgeville

Sting of title-game loss motivating Milledgeville

Missiles hungry to get another chance at 8-man state championship

By Ty Reynolds

After finally getting over the hump in the playoffs last season, Milledgeville still finished with a sour taste in its mouth.

But that has only added to the motivation to finish with that final win this fall.

The Missiles had one of the best seasons in program history last year, finishing 11-2 and falling to Amboy in the Illinois 8-Man Football Association state championship game. Now that loss has fueled the fire the entire offseason to get another chance at that title.

“We’re super motivated,” senior Karter Livengood said. “We’ve got a lot of returning starters, and we know what the feeling is like to lose in the state championship game – and that sting is still with us. We carry it with us through practice every day and it keeps us motivated.”

After losing second-round playoff games in their first three seasons in 8-man football, the Missiles finally cleared that hurdle last fall. Coach Jason Wroble credits the team unity as a big reason why, and believes that it’s something they can take with them through this season as well.

“That was one of the things about last year’s group that was pretty special. They realized that the bond and the brotherhood and the chemistry of the team was what really got us over the hump,” Wroble said. “The way they approached the team dynamic is what got that monkey off our back. So I think they bring that with them again this year. They realize how important that is.”

Livengood says it’s the biggest key to getting another crack at a title this fall.

“Playing together as a team is huge. On defense, getting eight hats to the ball every time. On offense, blocking to the whistle. Pretty much just playing with that same grit, that same brotherhood that we had last year,” he said. “It definitely taught us a lesson. It’s what we don’t want to feel again this year.”

Livengood is one of Milledgeville’s six returning starters, and he’s moving to the trenches after playing some running back and quarterback last year. Se-

niors Konner Johnson and Spencer Nye return to the offensive and defensive backfields, and Caleb Sarber and Evan Schenck come back at offensive line and at linebacker. Sophomore Kyson Francis will return at quarterback.

“A lot of the seniors that we have back, they’ve gotten a lot of snaps in varsity football – on quality teams and against quality opposition,” Wroble said. “They’ve played in big games and had some big moments, and being on the big stage isn’t something that’s going to rattle them. They know what it’s all about. They know what it takes.”

Key figures who are looking to step up this season will be senior Benny Mickelson (tight end/defensive end), junior Jayden Promenschenkel (running back/tight end/defensive back) and sophomore Blake Wooden (lineman). But even the young players have experienced a deep playoff run, and Wroble feels like that will be valuable this fall.

“I think in the offseason, it’s been huge for us. They’ve been real motivated, and I think a lot of younger kids bought in. They saw the success and saw the community rally around us and wanted to be part of it,” Wroble said. “I always hear from coaches that go deep in the playoffs every year how those extra practices late in the season really pay off. We saw a lot of growth from some of those younger kids, so I’m hoping that it pays off this year, too. The kids are definitely motivated. They got a taste, and they want to get another shot.”

The Missiles will look for a balanced attack on offense and an aggressive, physical mindset on defense. Livengood likes the blend of experience, athleticism and speed he sees on his team.

“We’ve got lots of speed, lots of talent back, so we’re just going to keep going with it. We’ve got a lot of fast guys, guys that can get to the edge and fly past people on offense, and guys that can shut down the edge on defense,” Livengood said. “We’ve got a great foundation to start from. We’ve got a great group of upperclassmen and leaders that’ll help out the young guys stepping into new spots. We can just build on what we had last year.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Milledgeville’s Evan Schenck celebrates a hard-earned TD against Polo Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at Milledgeville High School.

Morrison Morrison geared up for second season in NUIC

By Terry Duckett

Charter members of the Three Rivers Conference since its 1975 inception, the Morrison football squad sailed into new waters last fall.

Making their debut as members of the Northwest Upstate Illini Conference, the Mustangs almost overcame a bumpy start to their first NUIC campaign to book themselves a third consecutive trip to the IHSA postseason.

Unfortunately for Morrison, a threegame losing streak over the final third of the season coupled with three losses in its first four games resulted in a disappointing 3-6 finish.

However, third-year head coach Nate Vandermyde is hoping that the experience his club gained during its first year of NUIC play will translate into a turnaround year in 2025 after finishing seventh out of nine teams with a 2-6 league mark.

“That was something we preached last year, that in the NUIC, there are no off-weeks,” said the 2008 Morrison graduate, who quarterbacked the Mustangs to the Class 2A semifinals in 2006 and the 2A quarterfinals the following season.

“You’ve got to bring your best to the table every week, or you’re going to end up on the wrong side of things. With the TRAC, we’d gotten accustomed to several teams after playing them multiple times. With the NUIC, we knew it would be tough, but it was still something new.

“Last year gave us that chance to see it and feel it for ourselves, and now the

guys know what it’s all about,” added Vandermyde. “It’s not just us as a coaching staff letting them know.”

The strength of the Mustangs’ 2024 schedule was such that five of their six losses came against playoff teams, including conference champion and Class 1A state runner-up Lena-Winslow and 3A quarterfinalist Durand-Pecatonica.

The final setback in Morrison’s season-ending three-game skid stung on a deeper level. In the resumption of their Wooden Shoe Bowl rivalry game with longtime Three Rivers adversary Fulton (which joined the NUIC in 2021), the ‘Stangs went into the offseason with a 41-7 loss.

The loss to the Steamers came one week after a hard-fought 18-13 setback to Eastland-Pearl City, a setback that eliminated Vandermyde’s team from playoff contention.

“The way we finished, with a tough loss to Stockton (54-14 in Week 7) and then losing to EPC took the wind out of our sails. We did not respond well the following week against Fulton,” he said. “Our guys are using that finish as motivation going into this year.”

Returning six starters on the offensive side of the ball along with five defensive starters, the Mustangs return a pair of All-NUIC standouts in junior placekicker Josh McDearmon (first team) and senior linebacker Noah Robbins (second team), with McDearmon taking on a wider role this fall at

See MORRISON page 28

PHOTO CREDIT: STEVE SIEFKEN

Morrison’s Brady Anderson (20) carries the ball as Forreston’s Dane Setterstrom pursues him last season at Morrison High School.

Newman Newman undeterred by key losses

By Ty Reynolds

Replacing key players on both sides of the ball is an annual ritual in high school football. Newman has a history of succeeding in that effort, and the Comets believe this year will be no exception.

Despite losing standouts on both offense and defense from last year’s 8-3 squad, Newman expects to hit the ground running in alum Mike LeMay’s fourth year as head coach.

“We’re losing a lot of guys, but we’ve got a lot of hard-working new guys coming in. They’re learning their stuff, learning new positions,” senior linebacker George Jungerman said. “Once we get them all going and working together, I think we’ll be great out there.”

Despite having a younger group than last year, a lot of the new starters still got varsity experience as backups a year ago. That should breed familiarity with the speed and physicality of varsity football.

As for familiarity with the system, that’s never an issue for the Comets.

“We lost a good number of players last year, and we’re young this year, but all of our young guys – with limited numbers like this – have varsity experience. This isn’t everybody’s first show,” senior quarterback Evan Bushman said. “I’m pretty confident with our younger guys all stepping up to the plate; they’ve all been here, they’ve been through the playoffs with us, they know the playbook – we’ve all been running basically the same thing our whole lives – and I’m really confident

in our younger guys this year, and I think they’ll step up and do fine.”

Offensively, Newman will run the ball and maybe mix in some passing with Bushman returning as the starting quarterback; the backfield behind him will look a bit different, with new faces starting after losing Daniel Kelly, Cody McBride and Briar Ivey. Morrison transfer Rylan Alvarado also joins the backfield this season.

Defensively, the loss of three-year varsity anchor Kelly at middle linebacker will sting. But Jungerman and junior Matt Blackert will lead the way there, while senior Jacob Payne and junior John Rowzee return up front.

Payne also returns to the offensive line, as do seniors Cooper Spears and Ben Geske and junior Matthew Murray. Junior Renner Rosengren comes back at wide receiver and safety.

LeMay is counting on those experienced veterans to help the learning curve for the new starters.

“It’s next man up, that’s really what it’s been,” he said. “It’s reload and keep going. Honestly, we’ve changed a little bit of the schematic, but clearly the culture of the Blue Machine is still there. The Machine keeps rolling, so the next guys are up.”

LeMay credits the summer contact days with getting his players on the same page and in the flow at the varsity level.

“This summer’s been valuable just getting everybody here and understanding stuff. We’re doing a lot of teaching this summer so when we get

to those two weeks prior to the season, they’re meaningful reps, we’re going to refine our abilities and our skill, and really get up to full speed,” he said. “If they can process it now where it’s not game speed, then hopefully by August they retain that and it’s just go and get after it.”

Newman spent some of its summer camp in joint practices, which helps get the players in a more competitive environment. The Comets worked out with Geneseo, Lena-Winslow and Oregon, and both coaches and players see how valuable those reps can be.

It also helps get the juices flowing as the season approaches.

“It’s been fun. You really see some good competition,” Bushman said. “It’s good to be out here again. You have such a long wait; when the last season’s done, you think, ‘Gosh, when’s

the next one going to get here?’ When it does come, you’re just so excited. The season is here then it’s gone. So you’ve just got to take your time out here, have fun and enjoy it.”

As usual at Newman, the goal will be a playoff run. The Comets went 5-0 in the Three Rivers Rock last season and got their first playoff win in LeMay’s tenure. It was the 23rd straight year they’ve made it to the playoffs, but they haven’t been past the second round since their sixth state championship in 2019.

That’s something this team hopes to rectify.

“We want to make the playoffs, that’s our first goal,” Jungerman said. “Then we want to get to state and win state this season. I think if we work hard and play as a team really hard together, we can be great this year.”

Luck Of The Irish

Oregon Oregon’s goal: Taking next step in playo s Hawks hope to build on back-to-back postseason appearances

By Ty Reynolds

Oregon is looking to take the next step this season and is turning to a time-honored Hawks mantra to do so.

After snapping a six-year playoff drought with back-to-back 5-5 seasons, the Hawks hope to build on that foundation of success. Senior running back and defensive back Cooper Johnson succinctly summed up how they want to go about that.

“Play fast and hit hard,” he said.

That’s the style Oregon used during a run of 12 playoff berths in 16 years during John Bothe’s tenure, and with head coach Broc Kundert entering his fourth season, the Hawks’ familiarity with the system and style of play should help with that.

“It makes it a lot smoother,” Johnson said. “We don’t have to start from Day 1. It’s already like we’re on Day 30. We just keep on growing and getting better. I think we’re a step ahead of where we were last year.”

“Implementation-wise, we just kind of feel like we’re where we need to be, maybe like a week before our first game, and we’ve got plenty of days to continue to get ready,” Kundert said. “I think maybe with it being Year 4, the kids know what to expect, they know the system, it’s stayed the same, and we can just fly to the football because we don’t have to think as much anymore.”

In addition to Johnson, Oregon also brings back seniors in quarterback/ defensive back Benny Olalde, running back/defensive back Keaton Salsbury and two-way lineman Tristin SmithVan Cura, and juniors such as running back/linebacker Jakob Moser and Jayden Berry, and running back/defensive back Jakobi Donegan.

Senior Ethan Reed (defensive line) and juniors Zandyr Withers (tight end and defensive line), Dawson Alcala (offensive and defensive lines), Zayden Vandesand (offensive and defensive lines) and Ethan Peeling (wide receiver and linebacker) will be key newcomers who are expected to step up for the Hawks.

“We’ve got a bunch of young guys stepping in for the seniors last year,” Johnson said. “I think we’re much

faster than last year, we’re definitely going to be a lot faster team, we’re definitely going to get to the ball faster as a team.”

A hard-nosed defense is always key in the tough Big Northern Conference, and some balance on offense is expected this season in Oregon. With a strong stable of running backs and a returning signal-caller in Olalde, the Hawks would like to spread the ball around in various ways on offense.

“We’re going to be balanced,” Olalde said. “Everyone’s been working really hard during the offseason, getting everyone to help each other and make sure we’re all going the same way. I think we’re going to be really balanced and have a little bit more fire on offense.

“I think it’s going to start with our O-line and our H-backs. After they start clicking, everyone else starts clicking with them.”

The goal for the season is clear: Not only to get back to the playoffs, but to make some noise when they get there.

Recent trends stoke some optimism for that. The Hawks have won three of their final four regular-season games each of the past two years before firstround playoff losses, so a faster start to the season – and continuing to build their mental toughness – could help them carry that momentum deeper into the postseason.

“I think they’ve kind of tasted it, ‘This is what success tastes like – and I like it, and I want to continue it.’ No

shot at the previous staff before, but I think we had to kind of learn how to win,” Kundert said. “Year 2 [in 2023], when we did make the playoffs, we were learning at the varsity level. Last year was just a cluster of injuries that just hurt us, but if you would have had that scenario with all those injuries happen two years ago, we wouldn’t have been able to handle that adversity like we did last year.

“I feel like these guys kind of know what it takes, they’ve tasted it, they want to continue it, so not necessarily that the sky’s the limit, but we want to take off running right away and not have any mess-ups or anything like that, just play well every game. I’m excited for our guys.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Oregon’s Cooper Johnson ghts through a Rock Falls tackler Friday, October 11, 2024, in Rock Falls.

Polo Polo seniors stepping into leadership positions this season

By Drake Lansman

A perennial state contender in the Illinois 8-Man Football Association, the Polo Marcos look to continue their winning ways behind new senior leaders.

Following the graduation of all-state quarterback/defensive back Gus Mumford, Polo will turn to JT Stephenson, who was also in the mix behind center last season.

“We’re hoping he can step up and fill that void,” Polo coach Ted Alston said. “He’s a little bit different kind of player, but I think he can do a lot of the same things that Gus was able to do.

“He’s got a nice arm and has looked pretty good so far throwing the ball as well.”

Despite coming into the season with little varsity experience at QB, Mumford accounted for over 1,200 yards rushing and 800 passing last season.

“JT has had some experience and played in pretty much every game we played last year at some point at quarterback,” Alston said. “We feel good about that. He’s been out there and it won’t be a big surprise for him.”

Alston said the receiving depth is not as prominent this season, but the tight end group is solid.

All-state senior two-way lineman Wyatt Plachno looks to anchor the

trenches and classmate Damon Rowe is another returning all-conference player at defensive end/tight end. Alston also listed Korbin Cavanaugh (TE/DE) and Quinton Hart (RB/LB) as top players to watch.

“I think both sides, the offensive and defensive lines are pretty solid,” Alston said. “And we have some good depth there. That’s probably going to be our strength; our depth and skill.”

Alston said the team can’t afford to make many mistakes this season.

“We’ve got to be sharp to win games this year,” he said. “So hopefully we are disciplined and we do those things well.”

Winning 8-man state titles in 2019 and 2021, Polo has reached the semifinals the past two years. Milledgeville broke through last season to reach the championship game against Amboy after beating Polo 28-14.

A history of success in the league, which started in 2019, has helped the Marcos keep a high standard for new players.

“Success breeds success,” Alston said. “The kids don’t want to disappoint, so they’ve worked hard to be the next team up and try to fill the shoes of those guys before them that did really well.

“I think they’ve embraced that role as well so I’m pretty happy about that.”

Alston said Plachno, Rowe, Stephenson and the other seniors will need to step up as leaders this season. Polo opens the season at home against Bushnell-Prairie City on Aug. 29.

“Those kids, they’ve put in their time and they’ve worked hard,” Alston said.

“They’ve got to not just be good football players, but they’ve got to be the leaders of the team.

“At some point, bad things happen to a football team. And if you don’t have those leaders on the team, it makes it a little bit harder to recover.”

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON

Polo’s Wyatt Plachno (75) celebrates a Marco touchdown against Alden-Hebron during 8-man playo action last season in Polo.

Rock Falls

First-year Rock Falls head coach David Chavira hopes to rebuild team foundation

By Drake Lansman

Looking to rebuild the foundation of Rock Falls football from the ground up, first-year head coach David Chavira got some advice from Newman coach Mike LeMay and Sterling coach Jon Schlemmer.

Both the Comets and Golden Warriors have been models of success over the years and perennial playoff participants.

“All credit goes to them for taking the time to help someone who’s not new to the game, but new to the position,” Chavira said. “I picked up some great tips from them in the areas that we discussed.”

Chavira is a 1994 Rock Falls gradu-

ate who has coached Rockets football in a variety of capacities and position groups. He recently coached the JV team along with varsity running backs and linebackers. Chavira takes over following coach Kevin Parker, who finished with a 5-43 record in six seasons.

Chavira wants to close the gap against other teams in the Big Northern Conference. Learning from nearby successful programs is a good start.

“I like to have conversations on how to maximize time and be efficient,” he said. “One of the best things I got from coach LeMay was how they structure their Mondays. I really like a lot of what they had to say. We use the same strength training program, so sort of talking to him about how he structures

things there.”

Chavira also picked Schlemmer’s brain on how he structures things during the summer.

“We didn’t really get into X’s and O’s too much,” he said, “but just some drilltype things and some great conversations.”

Chavira has new, more stringent goals for the team as well as the coaches. He said aligning the youth programs up through the varsity program is crucial. He also knows the importance of strength and conditioning having coached that as well.

“As a school I think we could really benefit from having year around cycles of training so that we don’t see any sliding back as far as strength and explosiveness,” he said.

Chavira hopes to build a strong base for the team first and foremost.

“That’s the biggest thing is just setting a foundation of what the standards are when it comes to blocking, coverages, communication,” he said. “And rebuilding those with a brand new offense, defense and special teams.”

He says all phases of the game will have a new look.

For a team with just two playoff appearances and that has not had a winning record since going 5-4 in 2009, Chavira says he cannot do it alone.

to the point where we need to be.

“That’s really why the focus has been trying to get the fifth grade all the way up through the varsity and build that as an entire community and try to get a groundswell to change the culture of the program from the community perspective.”

Chavira is proud to be in his position.

“It’s an honor that I never envisioned would come,” he said. “Back when I was a player here it was a dream to eventually become the head coach here. And it’s an honor that it came true.

“It’s really going to take a community effort,” he said. “A player effort and a coaching effort to all kind of build up

“I want our community to have a sense of honor and excitement coming to the stadium.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL Rock Falls rst year coach David Chavira runs his team through drills Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

A er record-setting season, Sterling kicker Ryan Gebhardt

By Drake Lansman

Coming off a record-setting junior year, Sterling kicker Ryan Gebhardt looks to be a reliable player once again for the Golden Warriors this season.

Gebhardt was second on the team in scoring last season to the since graduated Kaedon Phillips. He was 12 of 14 kicking field goals with a long of 47 yards, hitting 23 of 24 extra points for a total of 59 points.

He was an All-Western Big 6 Conference first team pick on special teams last season.

Gebhardt’s 12 field goals in a season are a school record, and his 18 field goals are the career record. He also tied Raciel Ocampo’s 2006 record with three field goals made in a game.

Now a senior, Gebhardt hopes to hopes to set the longest field goal record this season. The record is 49 yards, set by Ocampo in 2008.

Gebhardt said it feels good to be relied upon by the team. He’s been kicking on varsity since he was a freshman.

“It’s always a good feeling to get my team in good position after making a field goal,” he said. “And to get a few records under my belt felt pretty good.”

Coming from a background in soccer, he’s been kicking in football since eighth grade. He goes back and forth between soccer and football during the fall, and things have gone smoothly.

“I think that’s what made me so good, kicking in soccer my whole life,” he said. “And having a strong leg built me to be a good kicker.”

He has trained in the Chicagoland area with Chris Nendrick, a former Northern Illinois University kicker who also kicked in the Arena Football League. Gebhardt has also attended two Iowa and Illinois kicking camps to gain exposure.

Gebhardt has not yet made plans for

college, but kicking in football as well as running track look to be possibilities. He ran on Sterling’s 4x200 meter relay that took second at state with Cole Stumpenhorst, Joseph Holcomb and Maurice Delacruz.

Ryan’s older brother, Jake, ran in college at Indiana and North Carolina. Ryan’s goals this year are to get more touchbacks and extend his kicking records.

Sterling opens the season at Metamora in Week 1.

The Golden Warriors have finished with five wins in each of the last two seasons, reaching the playoffs the last 10 years.

Sterling graduated its leading receiver in Phillips, along with quarterback Drew Nettleton, but returns a stable of running backs and second leading receiver Quincy Maas.

And Gebhardt looks to be dependable whenever his name is called.

“Our team chemistry is really good,” he said. “A lot of good athletic and fast guys. We have a lot of good running backs and wide receivers.”

PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN HURLEY

Sterling kicker Ryan Gebhardt attempts a eld goal during the Golden Warriors' 2024 game against Niles North.

• 8-MAN

Continued from page 9

ST. ANNE CARDINALS

Coach: Alan Rood

2024 record: 8-3

Top players: Quinton Thompsen, sr., RB; Matthew Langellier, sr., WR/DB; Grant Pomaranski, sr., QB/DB; Brandon Schoth, sr., TE/DE; Jason Bleyle, sr., C

Schedule: Aug. 30 at Martinsville, Sept. 5 Meridian, Sept. 12 Hutsonville/Palestine, Sept. 20 at Schlarman, Sept. 26 South Fork/Edinburg/Morrisonville, Oct. 3 at Unity Christian/Mt. Pulaski, Oct. 11 at St. Thomas More, Oct. 16 at Milford/Cissna Park, Oct. 24 Blue

• MORRISON

Continued from page 22

wide receiver.

“Josh has been our kicker the last two years, but he’s been very important to us this offseason with his route running,” said Vandermyde, “and we’ve got senior Carson Blade coming into the role of quarterback, and he’s taken

Ridge/DeLand-Weldon

WEST CARROLL THUNDER

Coach: Abelardo Sustaita

2024 record: 8-3

Top players: Winter Harrington, sr., QB; Roger LaBorn, sr., WR/CB; Ryker Budimlija, sr., WR/CB; Rayce Mix, sr., RB/LB; Aden Buchholz, jr., RB/DE

Schedule: Aug. 29 at Biggsville West Central, Sept. 5 West Prairie, Sept. 12 Polo, Sept. 19 at River Ridge, Sept. 27 at Orangeville, Oct. 3 at Milledgeville, Oct. 10 A-FC, Oct. 17 at South Beloit, Oct. 24 Hiawatha

5 GAMES TO WATCH

Week 1 - Milledgeville at Amboy-LaMoille-Ohio: The league opens with a

rematch of last year’s I8FA title game. The Clippers lost quite a bit of production to graduation, but the two-time defending champions have been perennial contenders under Scott Payne. Milledgeville won six straight games before falling 42-14 in the title game.

Week 3 - Polo at West Carroll: The Thunder had a solid first season playing 8-man football last year, losing only to Milledgeville and Polo in the regular season and beating Flanagan-Cornell/ Woodland in the first round of the playoffs. Polo ended West Carroll’s season 66-0 in the following round. This could be a big test if the Thunder want to take the next step in the league.

Week 4 - Milledgeville at Polo: Last year’s Battle for the Blacktop Trophy

game was a physical contest that Polo won 30-14 to hand the Missiles their only loss of the regular season. Milledgeville got its revenge in the playoffs, however, winning 28-14 to advance to the championship game.

Week 6 – South Beloit at Alden-Hebron: Last year’s matchup was a defensive battle with the Sobos scoring on a fourth-quarter touchdown pass for a 6-0 win. The loss left the Giants at 2-4, but they rebounded to win their last three game to make the playoffs.

Week 7 - Ridgewood at Amboy-LaMoille-Ohio: This is a rematch of the 2024 I8FA championship game. They split two regular season matchups last year. Ridgewood reached the I8FA quarterfinals last season before falling 16-12 to Milledgeville in the final four.

the ship, if you will.”

The senior running back/defensive back duo of Brady Anderson and Levi Milder is among those Vandermyde is looking at to fill key roles for Morrison, which lost All-Conference picks Austin Boonstra (second team defensive line)

and Donny Reavy (honorable mention running back) to graduation.

Looking to return to the form that produced a 9-2 finish and a trip to the 1A second round in Vandermyde’s coaching debut season of 2023, Morrison will be tested right away in its Aug.

29 opener at Galena, a 1A quarterfinalist last fall.

“That’s a great one for us to open with,” Vandermyde said. “Last year really left a sour taste in all of our mouths. The guys are ready to get back at it.”

West Carroll West Carroll looks to take the next step after successful 8-man debut

By Drake Lansman

Gaining some confidence and snapping a lengthy losing streak went a long way for West Carroll last season.

Making its debut in the Illinois 8-Man Football Association after a 24-game losing streak that dated back to 2019, the Thunder finished 8-3 and even reached the second round of the playoffs.

Now in his second season at West Carroll, coach Abelardo Sustaita is looking for the team to take another step forward.

“My focus was on just getting the kids to believe in themselves,” Sustaita said of last season. “They had a fouryear drought, a lot of problems going on. I could see in their eyes they were very athletic, that they could win, they just had to get that self-confidence.”

Sustaita said last year’s seniors set a new standard.

“This next group coming in, they believe,” he said. “We’re going to be a little bit smaller, but we’re quicker, we’re faster and [the kids] understand

the game now.”

Sustaita said this year will be about establishing an identity even further.

The team emphasized weightlifting in the offseason and held a camp over the summer. It did not participate in 5-on-5 the previous summer.

“We got to see some teams that we didn’t get to see, so that was big for us as well,” Sustaita said. “And then we had the new weight room this whole summer that we were grateful to get when we moved over to the new high school.

“We were able to prepare very well for the season.”

Making its 8-man playoff debut, the Thunder beat Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland 20-17 last season before a 66-0 loss to Polo in the second round.

Sustaita said continuing to improve on the fundamentals will be key if the team wants to contend against the top teams in the league. It also lost 44-0 to Milledgeville and 52-6 to Polo for its only losses in the regular season.

“We feel that we are going to give them a better game this year,” he said.

“I told the kids, Milledgeville and Polo are two of the juggernauts in 8-man football. They’ve been doing what they did to us to teams since forever. If we want to get to that level we’ve just got to work very hard. It’s there for us, we can get there.”

Sustaita said the defensive line should be solid and 1,000-yard, 18-touchdown rusher Aiden Buchholz is just a junior. Also boasting nine seniors, Sustaita said the team returns four starters on offense and five on defense.

Being able to help revitalize the football program in a new league has been exciting for Sustaita, who was previously an assistant at Amboy.

“I worked the kids hard. I told them, ‘to come from losing, you have to put in double the work’,” he said. “To watch them smile that very first game [a 64-14 win over River Ridge], the whole student section ran on the field immediately.

“It’s been awesome.”

GO AMBOY CLIPPERS!

PROUDLY SERVING THE COMMUNITY WITH GREAT DEALS & GREAT SERVICE SINCE 1926

2025 Master Schedule

When and where to see your favorite team each week

Note: All games 7 p.m. unless noted

Milledgeville’s Karter Livengood (48) carries the ball for a gain during 8-man playo action against Polo on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 at Milledgeville.

Week 1

Thursday, Aug. 28

• Byron at Rock Falls

• Friday, Aug. 29

• Dixon at Rockford Lutheran

• Oregon at Genoa-Kingston

• Sterling at Metamora, 7:30 p.m.

• Princeton at Newman

• Kewanee at Erie-Prophetstown

• Lena-Winslow at Forreston

• Fulton at Eastland-Pearl City

• Morrison at Galena

• Bureau Valley at St. Bede

• Milledgeville at Amboy

• Bushnell at Polo

• Ashton-Franklin Center at West Prairie Co-op

• West Carroll at West Central

•

•

Week 2

Friday, Sept. 5

• Dixon at Byron

• Rockford Lutheran at Oregon

• North Boone at Rock Falls

• Chicago Urban Prep Bronzeville at Sterling

• Newman at Mendota

• Erie-Prophetstown at Spring Valley Hall

• Forreston at Dakota

• Durand-Pecatonica at Fulton

• Eastland-Pearl City at Morrison

• Kewanee Wethersfield at Bureau Valley

• Amboy at Rockford Christian Life

• Madison Abundant Life (Wisc.) at Milledgeville

•Polo at Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland, 7:30 p.m.

• West Central at Ashton-Franklin Center

• West Prairie Co-op at West Carroll

•

Week 3

Friday, Sept. 12

• Rock Falls at Dixon

• Oregon at Byron

• Moline at Sterling

• Fulton at Forreston

• Morrison at Durand-Pecatonica

• Galena at Eastland-Pearl City

• Bureau Valley at Knoxville

• Bushnell at Amboy

• Milledgeville at Ashton-Franklin Center

• Polo at West Carroll

Saturday, Sept. 13

• Erie-Prophetstown at Newman, 1 p.m.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

Dixon’s Landon Knigge ghts in the end zone against Chicago Ag Science’s Alex Calhoun Friday, Nov. 8, 2024 in the second round of the Class 4A football playo s.

PHOTO CREDIT: EARLEEN HINTON

Week 4

Friday, Sept. 19

• Dixon at North Boone

• Rock Falls at Oregon

• Sterling at East Moline, 6:45 p.m.

• Newman at Orion

• Rockridge at Erie-Prophetstown

• Forreston at Morrison

• Stockton at Fulton

• Eastland-Pearl City at Fennimore (Wisc.)

• Macomb at Bureau Valley

• Flanagan Cornell-Woodland at Amboy

• Milledgeville at Polo

• West Carroll at River Ridge

Saturday, Sept. 20

• Ashton-Franklin Center at Orangeville, 1 p.m.

•

Week 5

Friday, Sept. 26

• Dixon at Oregon

• Stillman Valley at Rock Falls

• Galesburg at Sterling

• Newman at Rockridge

• Erie-Prophetstown at Mercer County

• Galena at Forreston

• Fulton at Lena-Winslow

• Morrison at Stockton

• Eastland-Pearl City at Durand-Pecatonica

• Bureau Valley at Elmwood-Brimfield

• Amboy at Galva, 6 p.m.

• River Ridge at Milledgeville

• Polo at Ashton-Franklin Center

Saturday, Sept. 27

• West Carroll at Orangeville, Noon

Week 6

Friday, Oct. 3

• Stillman Valley at Dixon

• Oregon at North Boone

• Rock Falls at Winnebago

• Rock Island Alleman at Sterling

• Riverdale at Erie-Prophetstown

• Forreston at Eastland-Pearl City

• Dakota at Fulton

• Lena-Winslow at Morrison

• Bureau Valley at Lewistown Co-op

• Amboy at Peoria Heights

• West Carroll at Milledgeville

• Orangeville at Polo

• Ashton-Franklin Center at River Ridge

Saturday, Oct. 4

• Mercer County at Newman, 1 p.m.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX T. PASCHAL

The Amboy Clippers celebrate their win over Milledgeville Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, during the 8-man football championship in Monmouth.

Week 7

Friday, Oct. 10

• Dixon at Winnebago

• Oregon at Stillman Valley

• Chillicothe IVC at Rock Falls

• Sterling at Geneseo

• Newman at Riverdale

• Erie-Prophetstown at Orion

• Durand-Pecatonica at Forreston

• Hazel Green (Wisc.) at Fulton

• Morrison at Dakota

• Eastland-Pearl City at Stockton

• Illini West at Bureau Valley

• Ridgewood Co-op at Amboy

• Orangeville at Milledgeville

• River Ridge at Polo

• Ashton-Franklin Center at West Carroll

Week 8

Friday, Oct. 17

• Dixon at Streator

• Winnebago at Oregon

• Genoa-Kingston at Rock Falls

• Quincy at Sterling

• Kewanee at Newman

• Mendota at Erie-Prophetstown

• Fulton at Morrison

• Lena-Winslow at Eastland-Pearl City

• Bureau Valley at West Hancock Co-op

• West Prairie Co-op at Amboy

• Alden-Hebron at Milledgeville

• Polo at Hiawatha

•Danville Schlarman at Ashton-Franklin Center

• West Carroll at South Beloit

Saturday, Oct. 18

• Forreston at LeRoy, 2 p.m.

Week 9

Friday, Oct. 24

• Genoa-Kingston at Dixon

• Oregon at Dwight

• Rock Falls at Rockford Lutheran

• Sterling at Rock Island

• Newman at Monmouth-Roseville

• Erie-Prophetstown at Princeton

• Forreston at Stockton

• Galena at Fulton

• Ottawa Marquette at Morrison

• Eastland-Pearl City at Dakota

• Farmington at Bureau Valley

• Amboy at West Central

• Milledgeville at Rockford Christian

• South Beloit at Polo

• Ashton-Franklin Center at Alden-Hebron

• Hiawatha at West Carroll

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