The regular season has reached the midpoint, setting the stage for crucial October football. This month will determine conference titles and playoff spots as the postseason kicks off with more teams than before. Week 6 has added intrigue to future standings.
Catholic League Games Impact Playoff Contenders
A few significant games in the Catholic League have reshaped views on playoff contenders across different classes. Additionally, developments align perfectly for an anticipated South Suburban Red matchup.
Oak Lawn’s Crosstown Showdown
A major battle is brewing in Oak Lawn, where the Spartans aim to prove their strength beyond a Cinderella story. Oak Lawn narrowly avoided blemishing their perfect record against Evergreen Park. Despite trailing 14-6 in the fourth quarter, junior quarterback Danny Strelow’s 162 rushing yards and two touchdowns, along with senior running back Jayden Schlosser’s 111 yards and a touchdown, secured a 21-14 overtime win.
Oak Lawn and Richards meet for a significant test next Friday.
The upcoming game against Richards is critical, as the schools share a longstanding rivalry within the same town. Oak Lawn has struggled historically, having won only once in 29 meetings over 30 seasons, with the last victory in 2008. Last year, despite entering the game undefeated, Oak Lawn lost 59-29. This year, the expectation is different, with Oak Lawn posing a significant challenge.
Richards has improved, currently holding a 4-2 record after winning four consecutive games. Senior Eric Jacobs plays a pivotal role as quarterback, scoring in multiple ways during their 35-6 victory over Eisenhower. This matchup brings genuine excitement to the rivalry, with close attention anticipated this Friday.
Oak Lawn’s Danny Strelow dives into the end zone during overtime against Evergreen Park in a South Suburban Red game, captured on Sept. 25, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)
Providence and St. Rita Upset Defending State Champions
Providence and St. Rita scored major victories last Friday. Providence (5-1) narrowly defeated defending Class 6A champion Fenwick 28-21. Junior quarterback Dominic Vita rebounded from a tough game the prior week by throwing a TD pass and running for a score, providing stability amid recent challenges.
The Celtics face an aggressive Mount Carmel team next, but their title contention in Class 5A appears secure.
St. Rita’s season has been tumultuous, marked by alternating losses and wins against a challenging schedule. Despite a concerning 42-16 loss in Week 5, the Mustangs (3-3) recovered to edge past Class 4A champion Montini 39-38. Senior running back Brandon Johnson Jr. and senior quarterback John Fennell were instrumental in this triumph. St. Rita remains a formidable opponent.
St. Rita’s Brandon Johnson Jr. on a significant run against Marist during a CCL/ESCC crossover game, seen on Aug. 29, 2025. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)
Brother Rice’s Noteworthy Win
Brother Rice stunned many with their 35-24 victory over Mount Carmel in a clash of champions. The Crusaders’ victory was unexpected, particularly the manner in which they executed it. The team shut down Mount Carmel’s offense in the fourth quarter, led by freshman quarterback Sam Holcomb’s standout performance.
Holcomb demonstrated remarkable poise and playmaking ability under pressure.
Senior receiver Anthony Cartolano praised Holcomb, describing him as an incredible player and athlete with aggressive playmaking skills. With each week providing more experience, Brother Rice’s chances of defending their Class 7A title continue to rise, even with formidable opponents like East St. Louis ahead.