Peoria is buzzing as high school football playoff season continues. After this weekend’s action, only 32 teams remain in the Illinois High School Association playoffs, and only one from the Peoria area has survived to advance.
The No. 2-ranked Farmington Farmers continue to impress, moving to 12-0 after a dominating 47-7 victory against Dwight in the Class 2A quarterfinals. The Farmers are set to host a state semifinal game next weekend, marking a significant milestone for the program as they close in on their first trip to the final four.
In the Elite Eight, Peoria High and Princeton unfortunately saw their seasons come to an end. The Lions battled hard but lost 36-8 to Joliet Catholic in Class 5A, despite a late touchdown run. Meanwhile, the Tigers faced a tough matchup against Lombard Montini in the Class 3A bracket, losing 24-7 to end their run.
Looking ahead, the Farmers will face Palos Heights Chicago Christian in the semifinals of the Class 2A bracket. Chicago Christian, unranked with an enrollment of 316, has made a name for themselves with an 11-1 record and secured the No. 6 seed. Their determination has paid off, making them a formidable opponent for Farmington, who enters as the top seed.
In other quarterfinal highlights, Monticello edged out Benton in an overtime thriller, winning 27-26 after stopping a crucial two-point conversion attempt. Peoria High, despite the loss, had a solid season finishing 9-3 under head coach Aaron Montgomery’s first year.
The football scene in Peoria is still rich with talent and dedication, and fans can look forward to the upcoming semifinals. Saturday, Nov. 23 promises exciting playoff action, with the Farmers gunning for glory.
For those looking to catch the games, digital tickets are available for the quarterfinal matchups through online providers, with temperature forecasts indicating comfortable weather in the 50s. With the playoffs heating up, all eyes are on the remaining Peoria-area teams.
