IHSA Week 9 Recap

Image Courtesy of WZND Sports / Quote via WZND Sports

NORMAL, Ill. — Under the week nine Friday night lights with the fall breeze and state title dreams hanging in the balance, the teams in Bloomington-Normal played for a chance to keep their seasons alive. For some, it was the last game of the season, while others began their playoff runs.

Bloomington Central Catholic capped off a promising regular season with a 41-30 victory over Prairie Central, finishing 7-2. The Saints had a high-powered offense throughout the season, averaging nearly 38 points per game. They earned a first-round bye and will face the winner of Tolono Unity and Robinson in the second round of the Class 3A IHSA football playoffs.

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, Normal West and Normal Community faced off as two undefeated juggernauts. Both teams were averaging over 40 points per game entering the matchup. The Ironmen came out on top, 42-15, to finish the regular season undefeated at 9-0. The Wildcats dropped to 8-1 but remain one of the top teams in the state.

Normal Community head coach Jason Drengwitz shared his thoughts on the big win.

“I thought we were more disciplined,” said Drengwitz. “I thought we were emotionally mature and we played really well. . . Even when things didn’t go our way, our guys sticked together. They don’t point fingers, they don’t get their head down. It’s a credit to our coaches, our seniors, our captains, and our leaders.”

Quaterback Lucas Beaty had five total touchdowns in this game. Drengwitz spoke on his performance.

“He sparks our program because he is an outstanding leader and a great young man and a great student,” Drengwitz said. “Ironmen football has been so good for so long, but him doing what we do on offense and also playing outside linebacker is just really impressive. We just feel lucky to have him.”

Normal Community earned a first-round bye and will face the winner of Edwardsville and Chicago-Lincoln Park in the second round of the Class 7A IHSA football playoffs.

Normal West also earned a first-round bye and will face the winner of Chatham Glenwood and Chicago Brooks in the second round of the Class 6A IHSA football playoffs.

Bloomington came into this week with one last chance to sneak into the playoffs. Unfortunately, the Purple Raiders fell 57-21 to undefeated Mahomet-Seymour. Despite the loss, Bloomington will face off against Marion in the first round of the class 5A playoffs.

University High faced plenty of challenges this season but never stopped fighting. The Pioneers finished the year 1-8 after falling 22-14 to Springfield in their season finale. They will look to improve during the offseason and build toward next year.

To stay up to date on IHSA football, follow along on wznd.com.