Eight football teams in the Pantagraph area face off in the second round of playoffs on Saturday, with a spot in the state quarterfinals at stake. Key matchups include West against top-ranked East St. Louis, Bloomington versus fourth-ranked Kankakee, and U High facing undefeated Olney Richland County. Each team has distinct strengths, but the pressure is high as they aim for advancement in a challenging playoff landscape.

By the Numbers
  • East St. Louis boasts a record of 9-1 and is ranked No. 1 in 6A.
  • Bloomington has scored a 243-82 halftime scoring margin this season.
  • U High's Alek Weiland has thrown for 3,024 yards, the first area quarterback to reach 3,000 yards since 2006.
  • LeRoy's rushing attack averages 385.6 yards per game.
Yes, But

While some teams have strong winning records, the matchups present obstacles. West faces a historically strong East St. Louis team that has eliminated them previously, and Kankakee comes off a regular-season win against Bloomington, adding pressure to their game.

State of Play
  • All eight teams are vying for a place in the quarterfinals, with matchups reflecting a mix of elite competition and determined underdogs.
  • Teams are displaying diverse strategies, with some relying on powerful ground games while others utilize effective aerial attacks.
What's Next

The winning teams will advance to the quarterfinals where they will face tough opposition, including higher-ranked teams like Richards and Farmington, increasing the stakes for every game.

Bottom Line

As playoff intensity rises, teams must capitalize on strengths and learn from past encounters. Every game could redefine their season and set the stage for future matchups. Expect thrilling contests across the board this Saturday.