This month can be and nearly always is packed with sports going in many directions from Fall high sports, to culmination of Major League Baseball’s playoffs to college football moving deeper into the heart of the season’s schedules.
The Chicago Bears continue to seek revival. Likely best left said as is, although, as usual with the focus, as important as is the progress of a young quarterback, too much attention is riveted there.
More pure are high school sports and Saturday, Oct. 22 the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) will provide playoff pairings for 128 teams in eight classes, nearly always a bonding process for communities around the State. Part of the freshness is extra football and surviving colder temperature, a healthy venture. Among the schools entering the final week of the regular season with undefeated 8-0 overall records and quietly in preparation for playoff football, include South Elgin, York, Plainfield North, Lincoln-Way East, and St. Francis of Wheaton. Some teams are fighting for playoff berths include those with 4-4 records such as Hinsdale Central, Willowbrook, Bartlett, Joliet West, Plainfield Central, and Lisle.
The University of Illinois football team must find space here with both a wonderful turn around and a championship caliber defense. The Illini are 6-1 overall, tied for first place in the Big Ten West, along with Purdue.. Five games remain in the regular season and all the games become big.
Winter sports have just started in the professional ranks, soon for college schools, Winter sports in another month in high schools. Fans have their favorites and it is all good for dedication, enjoyment, and the special stories when the usual downtrodden find ways to compile success. Who will be next to find a growing fan base with success and find a challenge to continue success.?