UPDATE: The 2025 IHSA state football championships concluded with thrilling victories for Lena-Winslow and Wilmington at Hancock Stadium in Bloomington-Normal, marking a day filled with outstanding performances.
In a stunning display, Lena-Winslow soared to a commanding 30-0 lead over Brown County, securing their first state title since the 2020 season. The Panthers showcased their offensive prowess with eight touchdowns, largely attributed to standout players Wild and Schlichting. Wild rushed for a remarkable 170 yards and scored five times, while Schlichting contributed 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Wilmington dominated Maroa-Forsyth, taking a commanding lead of 30-0 into the fourth quarter. The Wildcats showcased their depth, with four players scoring touchdowns. Kettman led the charge with two touchdowns and a game-high 137 rushing yards, while teammate Moore added 107 yards and an interception on defense.
The excitement continued as Byron faced off against Tolono in a nail-biting finish. Entering the fourth quarter with a 42-29 lead, Byron had to fend off a furious rally from Tolono, who scored 21 points in the final quarter. Despite the pressure, Byron clinched the title with a critical stop on fourth down, marking their fourth 3A state title since 1999.
In an unforgettable performance, Byron’s quarterback Eisenmenger completed an astonishing 42 of 65 passes for 545 yards and seven touchdowns. He also rushed for 72 yards, while teammate Considine rumbled for 371 yards and three touchdowns, adding 63 yards through the air and 13 total tackles.
Montini capped the day with an emphatic victory, completing an undefeated season. Leading at halftime 21-12, quarterback Israel Abrams opened the third quarter with a spectacular 79-yard touchdown pass to Luca Florio. Abrams finished the game with 418 passing yards and four touchdown passes, showcasing the team’s offensive dominance.
As high school football fans celebrate these thrilling victories, all eyes will be on the future of these talented teams and players as they continue to make their mark in the sport. The emotional impact of these championships resonates with players, families, and communities, solidifying the legacy of high school football in Illinois.
Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from this year’s championships, as the excitement continues to unfold!
