What to watch for: Week 7
St. Rita-Providence also one to watch
By Scott PowersLibertyville (4-2) at No. 12 Stevenson (6-0) on Friday
The story: In what is always an exciting rivalry game, this year's matchup of Libertyville and Stevenson should be no different. Stevenson enters the game undefeated and has proved to be a legit 8A contender. Libertyville's losses have been to Carmel (Mundelein) and Lake Forest, two respectable teams.
Libertyville player to watch: James Zotto will be key on both sides of the ball. He's a running back on offense and a free safety on defense.
Stevenson player to watch: The Patriots have had plenty of success with the run, but quarterback Kevin Earl has talent, too. He will be looking to hook up with Nate Johnson some more this week.
Quotes: Libertyville coach Randy Kuceyeski -- "This game is huge because it's Stevenson. It is our biggest rival. The fact that we have won seven out of the last nine games will certainly have them fired up. For us to have a shot at the conference title, we need to win this game."
Stevenson coach Williams Mintz -- "This is always the big game in Lake County. It means a lot to everyone who is affiliated with Stevenson High School."
No. 8 Providence (5-1) at No. 3 St. Rita (6-0) on Friday
The story: St. Rita is coming off an impressive 54-18 win over Mount Carmel. Where the Caravan presented a test for St. Rita's defense, Providence should be more of a challenge to its offense and star running back Jahwon Akui. The Celtics have allowed 10 points per game this season, and they haven't lost since the opening week to Lincoln-Way East.
Providence player to watch: Pete Houlihan has done something almost every week to lead to a Celtics win. Last week, he returned two interceptions for touchdowns.
St. Rita player to watch: Jahwon Akui is the key to this team. He's rushed for 25 touchdowns this season.
Quote: Providence coach Mark Coglianese -- "You will never totally stop a back like Akui; he is so elusive and powerful. We need to try to prevent him from the big plays … the long TD runs."
No. 5 Lincoln-Way East (6-0) at No. 17 Bolingbrook (5-1) on Friday
The story: Lincoln-Way East has been one of the most dominating teams in the state. The Griffins have been doing it offensively and defensively. Bolingbrook, though, should be a good test for them. The Raiders, who entered the season as a top-5 team, hit a bump in the road with a loss to Lockport but have bounced back with three consecutive wins. If they want to prove they can still compete for a state title, this will be a big game to do so.
Lincoln-Way East player to watch: Alex Evans is the Griffins' lone two-way player. He had two interceptions last week.
Bolingbrook player to watch: Jamel Martin is one of the state's premier running backs. The Raiders will be looking for him to have a big night.
Proviso West (5-1) at Lyons (4-2) on Saturday
The story: After falling to Glenbard West two weeks ago, Proviso West will likely be challenged again on the road. Lyons is still one of the elite teams in the West Suburban. The Lions' two losses have been to Hinsdale Central and Oak Park. Proviso West will need to shut down Lyons' offense, while Lyons will look to contain star wide receiver Kyle Prater.
Proviso West player to watch: Kyle Prater was held to fewer than 100 yards against Glenbard West. The Panthers will need to get him the ball more against Lyons.
Lyons player to watch: Running back Nic Brown is extremely quick. He's capable of breaking off big runs and has done it more than a few times this season.
Quote: Lyons coach Kurt Weinberg -- "This is a huge game in the conference standings. This is also a huge game for both teams for the playoffs. We can make ourselves eligible to get into the playoffs with our fifth win, and they can guarantee themselves a spot by getting their sixth."
Scott Powers covers high school and college sports for ESPNChicago.com and can be reached at preps@espnchicago.com.
