Week 6 Big Twelve football predictions, pick the winners



Week 5 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Alan 5-1 Wins again!
2 Clark 3-3


Cumulative Standings

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Alan 26-5 3
2 Clark 22-9 2




Tags: Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 4 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions


Week 6 Illini Prairie Conference football predictions, pick this week's winners


St. Joseph-Ogden's Logan Umbarger
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden's Logan Umbarger tries to shed a Paxton-Buckley-Loda tackler during the game in early September. Stepping in for an injured Wyatt Wertz, the sophomore had 15 touches good for 44 yards and one touchdown. Can Monticello contain the Spartans' rising star in this week's homecoming game at Dick Duval Field?

Just three more weeks of regular season football to go. Submit your picks for this week's Friday Night Forecast and see how your calls stack up against other Illini Prairie Conference football fans. Drop back by OurSentinel.com Friday morning to see which teams are predicted to win as they work to qualify for this year's state football playoffs.



Week 5 Scores

Central Catholic 41, Monticello 13
Tuscola 20, Paxton-Buckley-Loda 14
Prairie Central 20, IVC 14
St. Joseph-Ogden 56, Rantoul 21
Unity 47, Pontiac 7


Week 5 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Brooks Look 5-0 Week 4 winner
2 Frank 4-1 Tie-Break**
3 Denise 4-1 Tie-Break*
4 Alan 4-1 Tie-Break
5 J 3-2
6 Sara 3-2
7 Lyman 3-2

Cumulative Standings (After Week 5)

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Brooks Look 21-4 2 Week 2 & 5 winner
2 Denise 18-7 0
3 Alan 17-8 0
4 J 16-4 2 Week 1 & 4 winner
4 Sara 14-6 1 Week 3 winner
7 Lyman 10-5 0
6 Frank 4-1 0
7 Keith 3-2 0


Lydia Kilgus leads Prairie Central to convincing victory over Heyworth



Prairie Central dominated Heyworth in straight sets, winning 25-7, 25-23 to close their early-season schedule.


FAIRBURY - The Prairie Central volleyball team made a powerful statement in their final non-conference matchup of the season, sweeping Heyworth in straight sets, 25-7, 25-23. The victory on September 29 brings the Hawks' overall record to 12-9 as they head into the heart of their conference schedule.

The Sentinel's Illini Prairie Conference sports coverage Serving was a key factor in the Hawks' success, with Lydia Kilgus delivering 8 service points and Charlee Popejoy adding 7 service points and an ace. On offense, Miranda Hari led the attack with 10 kills, while Kyah Creek orchestrated the plays with 15 assists.

"The girls came out and wanted the win tonight in their homecoming week," said head coach Kirsten Smith. "It was great to see them really come out strong and together, especially that first set."

The defensive effort was anchored by Paige Young, who tallied 17 digs. Prairie Central now turns its attention to a busy week of conference play.

The Hawks will travel tonight to face Rantoul (10-8 overall, 0-2 conference) before returning home on Thursday to host St. Joseph-Ogden (7-11 overall, 1-1 conference).


Prairie Central volleyball 2025, high school sports Fairbury, IHSA volleyball scores, Lydia Kilgus performance, Heyworth volleyball match recap


Friday Night Forecast |
Week 5 Illini Prairie football predictions



Here are Week 5 predictions from seven IPC football fans for this edition of The Sentinel’s Friday Night Forecast.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Unity's Crewe Eckstein celebrates a touchdown against Bloomington Central Catholic earlier this month. You will find the senior in the end zone most of the night in the Rockets' homecoming game against Pontiac tonight.


URBANA - Each week, we invite Illini Prairie Conference fans to predict the winners from conference matchups. New experts are welcome every week. Here what the team of experts say this week.


Week 5 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week
Central Catholic @ Monticello

Alan: Central Catholic .::. 28-17
Frank: Central Catholic .::. 34-18
J: Monticello .::. 28-20
Sara C: Central Catholic .::. 48-24
Denise: Central Catholic .::. 28-21
Lyman: Monticello .::. 28-27

Brooks Look: Monticello will throw the kitchen sink at the Saints. However, based on the way Central Catholic handled the Unity Rockets in Week 3, I've gotta go with undefeated BCC . Central Catholic 42, Monticello 21


Prairie Central @ Illinois Valley Central

Alan: Prairie Central .::. 31-14
Frank: Prairie Central .::. 21-14
J: Prairie Central .::. 20-12
Sara C: Illinois Valley Central .::. 28-21
Denise: Prairie Central .::. 27-7
Lyman: Prairie Central .::. 56-0

Brooks Look: It is redemption week for the Hawks coming off a 10-point loss to Paxton-Buckley-Loda. I see the Prairie Central swooping in for a victory on the Grey Ghosts. Prairie Central 28, IVC 14


Paxton-Buckley-Loda @ Tuscola

Alan: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 27-21
Frank: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 20-18
J: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 22-20
Sara C: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 36-14
Denise: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 28-14
Lyman: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 35-24

Brooks Look: I hate to bet against the Panthers, but Tuscola has home field advantage and a two-game win streak that started with upset on the road at Tri-Valley. Tuscola 28, PBL 24


St. Joseph-Ogden @ Rantoul

Alan: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 42-7
Frank: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 52-6
J: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 42-12
Sara C: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 50-6
Denise: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 48-0
Lyman: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 63-0

Brooks Look: The Spartan offense will cook tonight. 'Nuff said. SJO 48, Rantoul 12


Unity vs Pontiac

Alan: Unity .::. 35-13
Frank: Unity .::. 38-12
J: Unity .::. 42-7
Sara C: Unity .::. 48-14
Denise: Unity .::. 36-7
Lyman: Unity .::. 49-0

Brooks Look: Unity defense was firing on all cylinders at Dick Duval Field last week and their offense capitalized on coverage missteps by the Spartans. They will be a juggernaut in the first three quarters. Unity 49, Pontiac 7


Week 4 Scores

Monticello 39, St. Teresa 20
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 24, Prairie Central 14
Pontiac 28, IVC 7
Central Catholic 51, Rantoul 6
Unity 40, St. Joseph-Ogden 10


Week 4 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 J 5-0 Week 4 winner
2 Lyman 4-1 Tie-Break**
3 Brooks Look 4-1
4 Denise 3-2
5 Alan 3-2
6 Sara 2-3

Cumulative Standings (After Week 4)

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Brooks Look 16-4 1 Week 2 winner
2 Denise 14-6 0
3 Alan 13-7 0
4 J 13-2 2 Week 1 & 4 winner
5 Sara 11-4 1 Week 3 winner
6 Lyman 7-3 0
7 Keith 3-2 0


Friday Night Forecast |
Week 5 Big Twelve football predictions


URBANA - This week's prediction poll for the Friday Night Forecast is closed. Here are this week's picks from area Big Twelve fans.


Bloomington vs Urbana

GAME-of-the-WEEK!
Alan: Bloomington .::. 42-6
Clark: Bloomington .::. 35-6

Centennial @ Peoria Notre Dame

Alan: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 27-24
Clark: Centennial .::. 18-14

Danville vs Crete Monee

Alan: Crete Monee .::. 45-20
Clark: Crete Monee .::. 42-14

Richwoods @ Champaign Central

Alan: Champaign Central .::. 35-14
Clark: Peoria Richwoods .::. 28-21

Normal Community vs Peoria Manual

Alan: Normal Community .::. 49-16
Clark: Normal Community .::. 42-6

Normal West @ Peoria

Alan: Peoria High School .::. 64-20
Clark: Peoria High School .::. 28-14


With Week 5 voting closed, check back Monday to see how accurate this week's guesses were to the real thing. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum, or just love the spirit of high school football, Friday Night Forecast brings the fun of the season straight to area prep football fans. Join us in next week poll on Tuesday.

Below are the Week 4 standings.


Week 4 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Clark 6-0 Prefect week - woo-woo!
2 Alan 4-2


Cumulative Standings

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Alan 21-4 2
2 Clark 19-6 2



Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 5 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions

Spartans’ depth shines in 7-2 win over Decatur St. Teresa, Kelso & team growing



Senior Samy Kelso leads St. Joseph-Ogden with a 5-3 record, guiding a balanced Spartans tennis team built on depth and commitment.


URBANA - St. Joseph-Ogden senior Samy Kelso has become the anchor of the Spartans’ girls’ tennis team, showcasing a season defined by growth, resilience and mental toughness.

With a 5-3 record, Kelso has delivered some of the team’s most notable performances, including a Sept. 10 victory over Schlarman standout Reagan Troglia, 6-2, 6-1. Eight days later, she squared off with Pontiac’s state-qualifier Olivia Masching, battling hard in a 6-2, 6-1 loss that highlighted the high level of competition she continues to face. For Kelso, both matches were steppingstones in what has become one of her strongest campaigns yet.

SJO SPORTS

Kelso added another notch to her winning record this week against Decatur St. Teresa, defeating Vinathi Marri in straight sets, 7-5, 7-6 (4). The victory wasn’t easy, as Marri forced Kelso into a tiebreaker in the second set, but the senior dug deep and held her composure to seal the win.

St. Joseph-Ogden head coach Kevin Martlage praised her ability to embrace the team’s mantra of “play it one point at a time” after Tuesday's marathon match at Atkins Tennis Center.

He said Kelso’s mental strength has allowed her to rally in tough moments, turning what might have been losses in past seasons into wins. “She has also honestly become an absolutely great tennis player that loves the sport and is driven by continuing to get better and better each day,” Martlage said.

While Kelso has drawn much of the spotlight, the Spartans have seen depth across their lineup. Lily Rice continues to solidify the No. 2 singles slot, topping Decatur’s Brooke Nelson 6-3, 6-4, with steady serves and quick returns. At No. 5, Avarie Dietiker delivered a steady performance, winning 6-1, 7-5, while Nora Buckley powered through a two-set win at No. 6, showing the importance of closing out long rallies.

Though losses came at the No. 3 and No. 4 singles spots, teammates Audrie Helfrich and Maddie Wells continue to gain valuable experience against strong competition. Martlage noted that both players have made strides in their confidence on the court, even in defeat.


The team’s progress in the latter half of the season comes from strong chemistry, individual commitment, and off-season skill development by returning players.

SJO’s doubles squads made a clean sweep against Decatur, providing the perfect capstone to the 7-2 team win. The pairings of Ainsley Rhoten and Shelby Warns, Madison Farber and Kenley Ray, and Sophie Schmitz and Karleigh Spain all secured victories, with Schmitz and Spain closing out their match in dominating fashion, 6-1, 6-0.

Rhoten and Warns pulled away in the second set to finish 7-5, 6-2, while Farber and Ray battled through a tight tiebreaker to secure a 7-6 (4) victory in the second set. The effort reflected the Spartans’ team-first mentality, one that emphasizes spreading opportunities across the lineup and giving every player a chance to compete under pressure.


SJO's Ava Midkiff plays in a tennis match against Urbana
Ava Midkiff lines up a shot while playing at #2 doubles in St. Joseph-Ogden's against Urbana back in early September. The Spartan dropped the road match 6-3 to the Tigers. The two teams face each other again on Monday at Blair Park for a season rematch.

The team’s progress in the latter half of the season comes from strong chemistry, individual commitment, and off-season skill development by returning players. Martlage pointed out that from starters to alternates, veterans to neophytes, everyone works hard in practice to improve. Unlike a lot of high school teams, SJO doesn't rely on the strongest six players for every lineup.

"Every person on the team also works hard in practice and they continue to advance their ability to play a sport many of them never played before joining the team," said head coach Kevin Martlage. "I also feel that an 'X Factor' is our approach to playing 12 different players each and every match instead of doubling up the same 6 players between singles and doubles."

While it hasn’t always translated to a winning record, Martlage's goal is to build long-term success for his players to continue tennis year-round. "This has helped to prepare them for success while giving them important court time and confidence," he said.

Match Results

St. Joseph-Ogden 7, Decatur St. Teresa 2

Singles
No. 1 – Samantha Kelso (SJO) def. Vinathi Marri (St. Teresa), 7-5, 7-6 (4)
No. 2 – Lily Rice (SJO) def. Brooke Nelson (St. Teresa), 6-3, 6-4
No. 3 – Nora Jerabek (St. Teresa) def. Audrie Helfrich (SJO), 6-1, 6-2
No. 4 – Xaniyah Todd (St. Teresa) def. Maddie Wells (SJO), 6-3, 6-3
No. 5 – Avarie Dietiker (SJO) def. Addison Johnson (St. Teresa), 6-1, 7-5
No. 6 – Nora Buckley (SJO) def. Audrey Cunningham (St. Teresa), 6-4, 6-1

Doubles
No. 1 – Ainsley Rhoten/Shelby Warns (SJO) def. Nelson/Jerabek (St. Teresa), 7-5, 6-2
No. 2 – Madison Farber/Kenley Ray (SJO) def. Todd/Cunningham (St. Teresa), 6-3, 7-6 (4)
No. 3 – Sophie Schmitz/Karleigh Spain (SJO) def. Johnson/Perry (St. Teresa), 6-1, 6-0


St. Joe-Ogden Athletics

TAGS: St. Joseph-Ogden girls tennis, Samy Kelso senior season, IHSA tennis Illinois, SJO vs Decatur St. Teresa tennis, Illini Prairie Conference sports


Unity girls golf team finishes 6th at first IPC golf conference meet



Unity placed sixth, led by Claire Zorns’ 99, their first conference golf tournament. Monticello set a school record to win the IPC Girls Golf Tournament at Wolf Creek with a 330.


The Sentinel's Illini Prairie Conference sports coverage

PONTIAC - The Unity Rockets girls golf team showed determination and grit at the Illini Prairie Conference Tournament on Tuesday at Wolf Creek Golf Course. Facing the league's toughest competition in their first conference meet appearance with 31 players ready to make their mark on the links, Unity finished sixth with a team score of 445.

Leading the Rockets was Claire Zorns, who carded a 99 to place 17th overall. Teammates Olivia Witheft and Olivia Styan each shot 113, with Haley Ennis (120), Ellery Merkle (122) and Addison Mohr (124) contributing to the team’s total. Each player gained valuable experience competing against some of the top golfers in the small school division.

While Monticello captured the team championship with a record-breaking 330 and junior Cate Sanders earned individual medalist honors with a 75, Unity’s focus remained on the progress of its own roster. St. Thomas More and Bloomington Central Catholic rounded out the top three teams, demonstrating the depth of the Illini Prairie Conference.

Final Team Standings

1. Monticello                  330
2. Bloomington Central Catholic 333
3. St. Thomas More             376
4. Prairie Central             403
5. Pontiac                     408
6. Unity                       445
7. Rantoul                     349

Top 10 Individual Finishers

1.  Cate Sanders, Monticello                  75
2.  Caroline Braucht, Central Catholic        76
3.  Sydney Braucht, Central Catholic          82
3.  Maddie Bradbury, Central Catholic         82
5.  Rachel Ross, Monticello                   84
6.  Isabella Beery, Monticello                85
7.  Taylor Wells, St. Thomas More             86
8.  Claire Foster, Monticello                 86
9.  Jenika Biggs, St. Thomas More             90
10. Ella Farrell, Prairie Central             92

Unity Results

17. Claire Zorns       99
27. Olivia Witheft     113
28. Olivia Styan       113
32. Haley Ennis        120
33. Ellery Merkle      122
35. Addison Mohr       124



TAGGED: Unity girls golf 2025, Illini Prairie Conference girls golf results, Monticello IPC golf champions, Wolf Creek Pontiac golf tournament, Unity Rockets golf team standings


Submit your guesses for the Week 5 Big Twelve Friday Night Forecast



Week 4 Scores

Bloomington 31, Normal West 27
Champaign Centennial 14, Danville 7
Peoria 76, Manual 6
Peoria Notre Dame 42, Richwoods 6
Champaign Central 46, Urbana 0
Normal Community 17, Kankakee 28


Week 4 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Clark 6-0 Prefect week - woo-woo!
2 Alan 4-2


Cumulative Standings

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Alan 21-4 2
2 Clark 19-6 2



Pick your Illini Prairie Conference winners for this week's Friday Night Forecast


Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

ST. JOSEPH - SJO's Logan Umbarger tries to pick up a first down during fourth quarter action against Unity. The Spartans dropped to 3-1, leaving Bloomington Central Catholic in the number one spot on the conference ladder. St. Joseph-Ogden looks to bounce back on Friday in their road game against the Rantoul Eagles. The Rockets will celebrate homecoming this week with their conference matchup against visiting Pontiac.

Do you know Illini Prairie football?

Submit your picks for this week's Friday Night Forecast and see how your calls stack up against other Illini Prairie Conference football fans. Drop back by OurSentinel.com Friday morning to see which teams are predicted to win as they work to qualify for this year's state football playoffs.


Week 4 Scores

Monticello 39, St. Teresa 20
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 24, Prairie Central 14
Pontiac 28, IVC 7
Central Catholic 51, Rantoul 6
Unity 40, St. Joseph-Ogden 10


Week 4 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 J 5-0 Week 4 winner
2 Lyman 4-1 Tie-Break**
3 Brooks Look 4-1
4 Denise 3-2
5 Alan 3-2
6 Sara 2-3

Cumulative Standings (After Week 4)

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Brooks Look 16-4 1 Week 2 winner
2 Denise 14-6 0
3 Alan 13-7 0
4 J 13-2 2 Week 1 & 4 winner
4 Sara 11-4 1 Week 3 winner
7 Lyman 7-3 0
6 Keith 3-2 0



Keely Carter leads Unity Rockets in first Illini Prairie golf tournament



Unity Rockets finish ninth in debut Illini Prairie golf tournament. Keely Carter leads squad, shooting a 90 at Wolf Creek.


PONTIAC – The Unity Rockets made their golf debut at the 2025 Illini Prairie Conference Golf Tournament on Monday at Wolf Creek Golf Course, navigating the par-72 layout for the first time in school history. Unity finished ninth as a team with a total of 383 strokes, 21 shots behind eighth-place Bloomington Central Catholic and 51 strokes behind champions Prairie Central, who captured the conference title with 332 strokes.

The top three teams were Prairie Central, St. Thomas More in second, and Monticello in third.

IPC sports coverage by oursentinel.com

Individual honors went to Bloomington Central Catholic’s Vaughn Oakey, who fired an even-par 72. Monticello’s Max Henrard and Prairie Central’s Easton Friedman tied for second with 73, while St. Thomas More’s Wyatt Kirby carded 75 for fourth place.

Unity was led by Keely Carter, who finished 29th overall with a 90. Charlie Watson (96), Ashton Wolf (98), and Cole Zorns (99) also contributed, while Bryan Kleiss (109) and Adam Wolken (129) rounded out the roster. Despite the team’s ninth-place finish, the Rockets showed promise in their inaugural season and gained valuable experience competing against established conference programs.


Top 10 Individual Finishers

1. Vaughn Oakey, Bloomington Central Catholic   72
2. Max Henrard, Monticello                      73
2. Easton Friedman, Prairie Central             73
4. Wyatt Kirby, St. Thomas More                 75
5. Cayden Masching, Pontiac                     77
6. Tyler Clarkson, St. Thomas More              79
7. Kaleb Hendrix, Monticello                    81
8. Keller Schrock, Illinois Valley Central      82
8. Tucker Stoller, Prairie Central              82
10. Spencer Stockwill, Rantoul                  83

Unity Golf Team Scores

Keely Carter      90
Charlie Watson    96
Ashton Wolf       98
Cole Zorns        99
Bryan Kleiss     109
Adam Wolken     129
Team Total: 383 (9th place)

Final Team Standings (Top 9)

1. Prairie Central
2. St. Thomas More
3. Monticello
4. St. Joseph-Ogden
5. Rantoul
5. Pontiac
7. Illinois Valley Central
8. Bloomington Central Catholic
9. Unity


St. Joe-Ogden Athletics


Unity Rockets first golf season, Illini Prairie Conference golf results 2025, Prairie Central conference golf champions, Wolf Creek Pontiac high school golf, Illinois high school golf team standings


Rockets' soccer team posts first win with 4-1 victory over Hoopeston Area



McCaskill’s hat trick and strong defense fuel Unity soccer’s first victory, setting up conference play next week.


Unity Athletics


TOLONO - After six heart-breaking attempts, the Unity High School soccer team finally broke through Monday night, securing their first win of the season with a 4-1 home victory over Hoopeston.

The Rockets, who had struggled to find the back of the net all season, relied on a blend of veteran poise and youthful energy to finally get over the hump, improving to 1-4-2.

Unity struck first at the end of the opening half, with seasoned forward Caden McCaskill converting a precise pass into the goal. Hoopeston answered in the second half when Beckett Moran found the net, briefly tying the match at 1-1. But the Rockets refused to let momentum slip away. McCaskill, feeding off another well-placed setup from teammates, scored again to put Unity ahead 2-1, then completed his first hat trick of the season for a 3-1 lead. Logan Wells added the finishing touch late in the game, pushing the final tally to 4-1.

Goalkeeper Carter Cromwell was a key factor in the win, turning away 14 Hoopeston shots and keeping the Rockets in control throughout.

Next up, Unity heads into conference play, beginning with a Thursday matchup against undefeated St. Joseph-Ogden (16-0) at Dick Duval Field. Following that, the Rockets travel to Rantoul (4-7, IPC 0-1) and conclude the week at home against Illinois Valley Central (7-6-2, IPC 0-2).


TAGS: Unity High School soccer first win, Caden McCaskill hat trick, Hoopeston vs Unity soccer, Carter Cromwell 14 saves, Unity soccer 2025 season recap


Friday Night Forecast | Big Twelve Week 4 football predictions


URBANA - This week's prediction poll for the Friday Night Forecast is closed. Here are this week's picks from area Big Twelve fans.


Peoria & Peoria Manual

GAME-of-the-WEEK!
Clark: Peoria .::. 34-14
Alan: Peoria .::. 56-12

Normal West @ Bloomington

Clark: Bloomington .::. 21-18
Alan: Normal West .::. 31-24

Danville @ Centennial

Clark: Centennial .::. 27-21
Alan: Centennial .::. 28-14

Richwoods @ Peoria Notre Dame

Clark: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 42-18
Alan: Peoria Notre Dame .::. 35-17

Normal Community vs Kankakee

Clark: Kankakee .::. 42-21
Alan: Normal Community .::. 27-21

Champaign Central vs Urbana

Clark: Champaign Central .::. 36-14
Alan: Champaign Central .::. 30-6


With Week 4 voting closed, check back Monday to see how accurate this week's guesses were to the real thing. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a proud alum, or just love the spirit of high school football, Friday Night Forecast brings the fun of the season straight to area prep football fans.

Below are the Week 3 standings.


Week 3 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Clark 4-1 Winner via tie-breaker
2 Alan 4-1


Cumulative Standings

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Alan 17-2 2 Two-week streak broken
2 Clark 13-6 1



Big Twelve football predictions 2025, Central Illinois high school football picks, Friday Night Forecast Sentinel, Week 4 Illinois prep football forecasts, predictions


Friday Night Forecast |
Week 4 Illini Prairie Conference football predictions



It is time for another week of IPC football predictions in The Sentinel’s weekly Friday Night Forecast.

St. Joseph-Ogden's Cameron Wagner

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

St. Joseph-Ogden's Cameron Wagner provides pass protection during a play in last year's home game against Unity. The Rockets are back at Dick Duval Field for this year's Illini Prairie Conference regular season football game.


URBANA - Each week, we invite Illini Prairie Conference fans to predict the winners from conference matchups. New experts are welcome every week. Here what the team of experts say this week.


Week 4 predictions

Illini Prairie Game of the Week

Prairie Central (2-1)
vs Paxton-Buckley-Loda (1-2)

Sara: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 24-21
Alan: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 24-21
J: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 35-14
Lyman: Paxton-Buckley-Loda .::. 34-27
Denise: Prairie Central .::. 27-14

Brooks Look: Last week, Prairie Central proved it could contain St. Teresa's balance attack when it needed it most. Despite allowing 407 yards, the Hawks walked away with a 14-13 win in the non-conference game last Saturday. Meanwhile, PBL quarterback Sam Hall threw 11 passes for 265 yards and six - yes, six TD passes in last week's game against Pontiac. The Panthers' star running back Mason Vaughan average 6.9 yards a carry for 125 yards. If the Paxton-Buckley-Loda's defense can bring their A-game this week, they'll have have win #2 in their back pocket.

Paxton-Buckley-Loda 27, Prairie Central 14


Monticello (2-1) @ St. Teresa (1-2)

Sara: St. Teresa .::. 27-24
Alan: Monticello .::. 28-14
J: Monticello .::. 35-14
Lyman: Monticello .::. 21-7
Denise: Monticello .::. 24-10

Brooks Look: This is an exciting football match-up that will be worth twice the price of admission. The question: Can the Sages shutdown the Bulldogs' offense on their home field? This has all the markings of an overtime win for St. T in Monticello.

St. Teresa 28, Monticello 21


Pontiac (0-3) vs Illinois Valley Central (0-3)

Sara: Illinois Valley Central .::. 32-13
Alan: Illinois Valley Central .::. 35-13
J: Pontiac .::. 22-12
Lyman: Pontiac .::. 7-0
Denise: Pontiac .::. 14-6

Brooks Look: Easy choice here. After putting up a season-high 22 points on PBL last week, Pontiac comes out on top in this pairing with their first win of the season.

Pontiac 24, Illinois Valley Central 13


Rantoul (0-3) @ Central Catholic (3-0)

Sara: Central Catholic .::. 50-6
Alan: Central Catholic .::. 42-6
J: Central Catholic .::. 41-0
Lyman: Central Catholic .::. 56-0
Denise: Central Catholic .::. 21-0

Brooks Look: Central Catholic is one of three IPC teams in the top ten of the AP Class 3A polls. With the speed, size, and athleticism this team brings to gridiron, it will be hard for them to lose this one.

Central Catholic 56, Rantoul 6


Unity (2-1) @ St. Joseph-Ogden (3-0)

Sara: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 36-27
Alan: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 31-28
J: Unity .::. 27-20
Lyman: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 31-24
Denise: St. Joseph-Ogden .::. 24-17

Brooks Look: There has never been a boring St. Joseph-Ogden - Unity game. Last year, the Spartans came out on top thanks to kicker Charlie Schmitz booting the game-winning field goal from 31 yards out with 1.2 seconds left on the clock to seal a 24-21 victory at Dick Duval Field. The Rockets extracted revenge with a 35-7 second-round playoff victory eliminating SJO. This year, the game comes down to which team has the better defense. The Spartans will come close to making it three-consecutive regular season wins against the Rockets but won't be able to finish the job in overtime.

Unity 28, St. Joseph-Ogden 21



Week 3 Scores

Central Catholic 34, Unity 27
St. Joseph-Ogden 51, Illinois Valley Central 16
Prairie Central 14, St. Teresa 13
Monticello 36, Rantoul 14
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 48, Pontiac 22


Week 3 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Sara 4-1 Week 3 winner ** Tie-Break
2 Alan 4-1
2 Denise 4-1
3 Brooks Look 3-2
3 Lyman 3-2
3 Keith 3-2
3 J 3-2

Cumulative Standings (After Week 3)

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Brooks Look 12-3 1 Week 2 winner
2 Denise 11-4 0
3 Alan 10-5 0
4 Sara 9-1 1 Week 3 winner
5 J 8-2 1 Week 1 winner
6 Keith 3-2 0
7 Lyman 3-2 0

Previous predictions:
Week 1 Predictions | Week 1 Results
Week 2 Predictions | Week 2 Results
Week 3 Predictions |


Submit your picks for Week 4 Big Twelve Friday Night Forecast



Week 3 Results

Rank Name Record Notes
1 Clark 4-1 Winner via tie-breaker
2 Alan 4-1


Cumulative Standings

Rank Name Total Record Wins Notes
1 Alan 17-2 2 Two-week streak broken
2 Clark 13-6 1



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Urbana & Central play season flag football opener



Urbana hosted Champaign Central in a historic girls flag football season opener, with the Maroons earning the program’s first win on the road.

Urbana's Just'Us Jones throws a pass
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Just'Us Jones tries to throw a pass over Central's Juliana Balogh. The Tigers fell in their season opener 30-6 to the visiting Maroons. Jones, a sophomore, completed two passes for 17 yards and carried the ball five times for 41 yards.

Londyn Grant runs for Central

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Londyn Grant runs the ball for the Maroons.

Sarah Donahoe grabs flag of Just'Us Jones

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Central's Sarah Donahoe grabs the flag of Tigers' Just'Us Jones during first-half action.

Honor Dillon attempts a catch

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Tigers' Honor Dillon tries to haul in a pass between Maroons' Shanley Davis and Halle Youse.

Molly Kloeppel throws a pass

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Central junior Molly Kloeppel throws a pass during the first half of the Maroons' first flag football game in school history.

Baylee Russell and Azaiah Braxton celebrate

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Baylee Russell and Azaiah Braxton celebrate a big play in the second half.

Jones throws under pressure

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Just'Us Jones tries to unload a pass before Samara McArthur can get in for the sack.

Jones pressured by defense

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Under heavy pressure from the Maroons' defense, Just'Us Jones looks to throw before Kara Ficek and Juliana Balogh close in.

Honor Dillon runs the ball

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Honor Dillon runs the ball between Central's Rita Grant and Halle Youse in the second half.

Haley Helm throws a pass

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Central junior Haley Helm concentrates on unloading a pass to move the ball downfield.

Honor Dillon leaps past defender

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Tiger's Honor Dillon leaps past a Central defender in the fourth quarter. Dillon carried 11 times for 117 yards.

Honor Dillon runs 37 yards

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Urbana's Honor Dillon races downfield untouched for a first down on a 37-yard run.

Serenity Moore runs the ball

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Central freshman Serenity Moore runs the ball in the fourth quarter.

Central celebrates first win

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Maroon players celebrate the program's first flag football victory after defeating Urbana 30-6.



Harper, Cler shine as St. Joseph-Ogden soccer stays perfect at 12-0



The Spartans are ranked No. 1 in Illinois Class 1A for the first time. Their 12-0 season has featured 10 shutouts and an 82-6 scoring margin.


FARMER CITY - The moment was years in the making, and St. Joseph-Ogden made sure to rise to it. For the first time in program history, when the Spartans stepped onto the field this week, they did so as the No. 1 ranked team in Illinois Class 1A boys soccer. Highly deserving of the recognition, SJO's domination on the pitch continued with a win over Blue Ridge yesterday.

Lucas Stevens dribbles the ball
Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Looking to send the ball to an open teammate, Spartans' Buddy Stevens keeps the ball away from Urbana University's Jax Taylor during his team's home match in August. This week, St. Joseph-Ogden plays grueling five-match schedule from the top of the Class 1A rankings.

Behind four goals from junior Zach Harper and a hat trick from Hunter Cler, SJO powered past Knights 9-0 on the road, stretching their unbeaten season to 12-0 and keeping their storybook run alive.

Harper got down to business early, connecting twice in the first half on pinpoint feeds from midfielder Tyler Hess, who finished with four assists. Harper also turned provider, setting up goals for Cler and freshman Ainsley Freeman, who celebrated her first varsity score.

Cler went on to complete his hat trick, while the Spartans also benefited from a Hoopeston own goal. By the final horn, SJO’s relentless attack had overwhelmed the Knights, keeping their defensive dominance intact with a 10th shutout of the year.

"Steven Newman & Waylon Jones (Batman & Robin) are the dynamic duo on the back line," head coach Chris Stevens said. "Yadi Acosta holds down the middle and Lucas Stevens is up top looking to score or assist his teammates."

Jones and Newman are juniors, which means SJO's soccer program will simply reload in 2026.

The Spartans have now outscored opponents 82-6 this season, their No. 1 state ranking underscoring a rapid rise built on depth and determination. SJO also holds the No. 479 spot nationally, ranked ahead of Chicago Academy and Coal City in Illinois 1A. Since the start of 2022, the program has won 51 matches against just 11 losses, a turnaround that has placed the school the map, mirroring the school's storied football program.

Stevens said three attributes define this year’s roster: discipline, determination, and unselfishness. "They have set big team goals for postseason and want to see them through," he said. "[Every] player, seniors through freshman, want everyone to succeed. This is a cohesive group of players and it’s a privilege to be a part of this journey with them."

Now, the focus shifts to Illini Prairie Conference play. The Spartans host Monticello (4-7-1) today before a quick two-game road swing to Olympia on Wednesday and Bloomington Central Catholic on Thursday. After a short rest, they’ll return home to face Illinois Valley Central Saturday morning — all with their new No. 1 target on their backs.

Scoring Summary

  • Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
  • Hunter Cler (assist: Zach Harper)
  • Ainsley Freeman (assist: Zach Harper)
  • Own Goal (Hoopeston)
  • Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
  • Hunter Cler (unassisted)
  • Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
  • Zach Harper (assist: Tyler Hess)
  • Hunter Cler (penalty kick)


St. Joe-Ogden Athletics


St. Joseph-Ogden soccer unbeaten season, Illinois Class 1A soccer rankings, Zach Harper SJO soccer highlights, Hunter Cler hat trick SJO, SJO Blue Ridge soccer recap


Williams, Alexander lead SJO volleyball to sweep over Hoopeston



The Spartans swept all singles and doubles matches. SJO's singles and doubles squads were flawless, taking key wins on the road.

ST. JOSEPH - St. Joseph-Ogden bounced back in commanding fashion Monday night, defeating Hoopeston Area in straight sets in front of a supportive home crowd. Just days removed from a 2-0 loss to Oakwood, the Spartans regrouped and rolled to a 25-15, 25-10 sweep, ending the Cornjerkers’ hopes early and extending Hoopeston’s losing streak to eight matches.

Outside hitter Emerson Williams powered the offense with six kills across the two-set match. Addi Childers chipped in four kills, while Hadley McDonald and Ally Schmitz added three apiece. On defense, Emma McKinney anchored the back row with six digs, and senior libero Katie Ericksen followed with five. McDonald rounded out her solid night by contributing four more digs.

The Spartans also found momentum at the service line. Ava Alexander was unstoppable, landing four aces in her seven serves. McDonald backed her up with four aces of her own in 13 attempts, giving SJO a decisive edge in both sets.

With the victory, the Spartans improve to 4-8 overall and look ahead to a road trip tonight to face St. Teresa in Decatur. The Bulldogs (2-9), who opened the season with seven straight losses, are seeking to gain traction. SJO then returns home Wednesday to host the Danville Vikings. Hoopeston falls to 1-9 with the loss.


St. Joe-Ogden Athletics

TAGGED: SJO volleyball win over Hoopeston, St. Joseph-Ogden vs Hoopeston volleyball, Emerson Williams SJO volleyball, Ava Alexander aces SJO, Hoopeston losing streak volleyball



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