Live IHSA Football Playoff Projections by Steve Soucie
As the IHSA football season nears its conclusion, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. This update outlines the latest projections and statistics related to the upcoming playoff brackets.
Current Playoff Picture
As of Saturday morning, a total of 225 teams have secured five victories, making them playoff eligible. Notably, Rockford Jefferson and Chicago Noble/Bulls Prep achieved their fifth wins recently, solidifying their playoff positions.
Impact of Recent Games
A key matchup on Thursday night saw Rockford Jefferson defeat Rockford Auburn, allowing them to enter the five-win club. Similarly, Noble/Bulls Prep also clinched their spot with a win over Brooks.
- Teams now assured of five wins: 225
- Teams still vying for playoff eligibility: 276
- Four-win teams competing this weekend: 54
Among the four-win teams, two important games involve East Peoria facing Pekin. The winner of this match will join the five-win group, which could elevate the total to 222 teams.
Pre-Playoff Game Details
Week 9 is critical as it features several pre-playoff games. Notably, Kennedy and CICS-Longwood will contest a vital match; the winner will earn a playoff spot, while the loser will be eliminated. Another significant game will occur between Chicago Marshall and UIC-Prep, where the stakes are similarly high.
Eligibility Considerations
While 224 teams have recorded at least five wins, not all are playoff eligible due to certain conference rules. Teams like Collins and Noble-Comer have secured five victories but remain ineligible based on their standings.
- Playoff eligible teams with five wins: 224
- Non-eligible teams with five wins: Collins, Noble-Comer
Additionally, teams that finish fourth in their divisions, such as Orr and Schurz, will not qualify even with a win, highlighting the complexity of this year’s playoff structure.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the final week of the regular season, follow how the outcomes will further shape the playoff bracket. There are still many critical games left that could influence the final standings.
Overall, the landscape of the IHSA football playoffs is dynamic, with shifts occurring frequently based on team performances this weekend. Stay tuned for continuous updates as teams battle for a coveted spot in the playoffs.
