College football

Under the Radar: Area Teams Lurking for State Football Playoffs

Strategic Insights

Oct 19, 2025 — 1 min read

As the IHSA releases playoff pairings next Saturday night, several area teams are flying under the radar, despite impressive records and strong performances. The West Suburban Conference Gold Division, the Upstate Eight Conference, and the Mid-Suburban League East Division are just a few examples of conferences that often get overlooked in favor of more highly ranked teams. However, teams like Addison Trail, Glenbard East, and Cary-Grove are quietly building momentum and making a strong case for themselves in the state playoffs.

Key Takeaways:

Addison Trail (7-1) has a strong chance of earning a high seed in Class 7A with a win against archrival Willowbrook (5-3) this week.
The Blazers have gotten impressive seasons from senior quarterback Nico Dill, running back Gio Ortiz, and kicker Noah Cruz.
Glenbard East (7-1) veteran coach John Walters has built the Rams into a consistent winner, with a seven straight-season playoff appearance and a chance to secure a higher seed in Class 8A with a win against Riverside-Brookfield (8-0).
Rolling Meadows (6-2) has a top-level recruit in senior tight end/defensive end Sean Kerr (Navy) and a capable offense led by quarterback Joe Brighton and running back Luke Harvey.
Cary-Grove (6-2) has fought its way back to the top half of the Fox Valley Conference after a slow start, with standout senior two-way star Logan Abrams and improving underclassmen leading the charge.

Statistics:

Addison Trail has made back-to-back-to-back playoff appearances for just the second time in school history.
Glenbard East has won seven straight seasons and is aiming for a higher seed in Class 8A.
Rolling Meadows has scored 395 points in eight games this season.
Cary-Grove is projected to play in Class 5A this playoff season.

Sources:

"Addison Trail, Glenbard East, and Cary-Grove flying under the radar in state football playoffs." Chicago Tribune.
"Rolling Meadows' high-powered offense key to playoff run." Daily Herald.
"Cary-Grove Trojans looking to finish strong in Fox Valley Conference." Dundee Reporter.

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