News Summary

The 2025 Illinois high school football season is set to kick off with high hopes and anticipation. Teams like Loyola Academy and Mt. Carmel are poised for competition, while new recruits are set to make their mark. The season begins on August 29 and promises thrilling matches among 256 teams, culminating in playoff action starting October 31.

Exciting Times Ahead for Illinois High School Football in 2025

As the vibrant streets of Chicago prepare for yet another thrilling year of football, high hopes and buzzing excitement fill the air for the 2025 Illinois high school football season. With a delightful mix of established powerhouses and rising newcomers, fans are in for a treat!

Top Contenders to Watch

This year, the Massey Ratings come into play, ranking teams based on everything from game outcomes to strength of schedule. It looks like we are set for a fierce competition among Illinois’ finest.

Loyola Academy: The Defending Champs

Loyola Academy proved their worth last season by bouncing back from a tough start, with two losses in their first three games, to end on an impressive 11-game winning streak. They took home the Class 8A state championship for the third consecutive year, and with an astounding overall record of 51-4 over the last four seasons, expectations are sky-high. They kick off their 2025 campaign against Indiana’s Merrillville on August 29. Key players to keep an eye on include quarterback Matthew Lee and wide receiver Jordan McKinley, not to mention their three-star offensive tackle Tommy Fraumann.

Mt. Carmel: Time to Shine Again

Over at Mt. Carmel, preparations are ramping up as they aim for another shot at glory. While they faced a tough loss against Loyola Academy before the Class 7A state tournament, they swept through the playoffs to secure their third consecutive state championship. Starting their 2025 ambitions against Ohio’s Archbishop Moeller on August 30, this team boasts an impressive lineup featuring four-star wide receiver Quentin Burrell and a host of other talents, including defensive lineman Braeden Jones and linebacker Roman Igwebuike.

East St. Louis: Defending Their Title

Over in East St. Louis, the excitement is palpable as they come off a strong season as Class 6A state champions, concluding with just a single loss. Their defense is nothing to scoff at, comprising elite players like four-star cornerback Raheem Floyd and versatile linebacker Leon Howard. They look to defend their title against New Jersey’s Bergen Catholic on August 28, with key offensive players like wide receiver Kortez Rupert ready to shine.

Lincoln-Way East: Determined Dreamers

Lincoln-Way East enters 2025 with a chip on their shoulder after winning their first 12 games last season, only to fall to Loyola Academy in the semifinals. Kicking off their new season against Maine South on August 29, they boast four-star quarterback Jonas Williams and standout wide receiver Blaise LaVista among their ranks.

Brother Rice: Ready to Bounce Back

Meanwhile, Brother Rice aims for redemption after finishing last season with a 6-4 record. Their season opener is planned against Indiana’s Valparaiso on August 29. With promising players like running back Jameson Davis and protective lineman Brayden Parks, they are gearing up for vigorous competition.

The Start of Something Big

The Illinois High School Association kicks off the season with a whopping 256 teams all slated to start practice on August 11. First games will kick off on August 29, which is sure to be the start of an electrifying journey!

Mark Your Calendars for Playoff Action!

Football fans should jot down important dates with the playoffs commencing on October 31 and Championship games scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend at Hancock Stadium, Illinois State University on November 28-29. It’s not too early to get excited!

Spotlight on Top Recruits

This year also brings some talented recruits into the limelight. Notable names include Iose Epenesa, a defensive lineman from Edwardsville High School committed to the University of Iowa, and Talyn Taylor, a wide receiver from Geneva Community headed to the University of Georgia. There’s also edge rusher Nathaniel Marshall from Fenwick High School, committed to the University of Michigan.

As the countdown begins, the buzz surrounding the 2025 season of Illinois high school football continues to grow! With remarkable talent, fierce competition, and passionate fans, this season promises to be one for the books!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Tragic Loss in DeKalb: Young Football Player Passes Away
Local Athletes Break Records at IHSA Track and Field Meets
Handsome Young Swimming Coach from Hangzhou Gains Popularity
Track Stars Shine at 2025 Arcadia Invitational
Brook Park, Ohio Welcomes National High School Football Hall of Fame
High School Football Season Kicks Off in Illinois
Alton Girls Tennis Team Gears Up for Summer Practices
Marcis Ponder Narrows College Recruitment Choices
High School Football Season Approaches Across America
Tragic Loss in Louisville: High School Soccer Star Gunned Down

Additional Resources