Friday Night Drive

St. Patrick four-star defensive lineman David Folorunsho, who led the Shamrocks to the CCL/ESCC Purple Division title and the second round of the IHSA Class 5A playoffs in 2025, announced his commitment to Notre Dame on Friday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

St. Laurence three-star linebacker Sean Rice, who compiled 123 tackles and led the Vikings to the IHSA Class 6A state semifinals during his junior season, announced his commitment to Illinois on Friday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Mount Carmel four-star wide receiver Quentin Burrell, who caught 67 passes for 1,139 yards and 16 touchdowns while helping the Caravan win a fourth straight IHSA state championship during his junior season, announced his commitment to Michigan on Wednesday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Marmion's Henry Miller ran for 355 yards and 5 touchdowns before suffering a season-ending groin injury in 2025. Miller will return to the Cadets this fall and he'll be joined by wide receiver Colin McEniry, the CCL/ESCC's Offensive Player of the Year in the Red Division.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Lincoln-Way East offensive lineman Mason Halliman, a member of the Griffins' Class of 2027, committed over the weekend to continue his career at the University of Illinois.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

A 2006 Ottawa High School graduate and two-year starting quarterback, Jared Mundt is the Pirates new varsity football coach.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Two-time All-Interstate 8 Conference quarterback Marion Persich, who is receiving plenty of college recruiting interest, is transferring to Morris from La Salle-Peru for his junior season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Oswego's Ammar Banire was an unknown before last season, but opened eyes with breakout performances in a crosstown win and the state semifinal. Now the sophomore has seen his recruitment take off with Division I offers from Western Michigan and Miami of Ohio.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Early this year Alabama voted overwhelmingly to separate public and private schools into different championship competitions. Could Illinois follow Alabama's lead?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Early this year Alabama voted overwhelmingly to separate public and private schools into different championship competitions. Could Illinois follow Alabama's lead?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Who are the winningest active head football coaches in the IHSA? As the 2026 season approaches, Friday Night Drive has listed the state's winningest active coaches.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Despite missing the IHSA playoffs in each of the last two seasons, St. Ignatius has brought home consecutive Prep Bowl titles. Connor Hites and Connor Wanzung, who each hold Division I offers, are ready to lead the Wolfpack back to the playoffs in 2026.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Prior to being recognized at the Kankakee City Hall meeting Monday night, 2019 Kankakee graduate Keagen Trost was celebrated at his alma mater as the school's first NFL draft pick in almost 50 years.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Football players from La Salle-Peru and Ottawa had the opportunity to gain recruiting exposure by participating in IHSA combines, which are new this spring.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Local football players showed up in jerseys and helmets Monday morning for Johnsburg's Northern Burbs Showcase. About 165 athletes and 60 college coaches attended the inaugural event.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

The IHSA has approved combine events around the state this spring to help provide high school players with a high interest in playing at the college level with better opportunities to show their abilities. Nine Princeton players attended the event at Moline on Thursday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Alex Wollschlaeger did not play football his junior year of high school at Oswego East because of a broken collarbone. He had just one college scholarship offer. And now? He will be heading for New Orleans next week, an NFL contract from the Saints in hand.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

He grew up in Nigeria and started playing football when he was 11 years old. Now, St. Patrick junior defensive lineman David Folorunsho, who led the Shamrocks to the CCL/ESCC Purple title in 2025, is a five-star recruit and one of the top-ranked prospects in the country.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Behind a dominant defensive line and a powerful running game, Brother Rice won its first state football championship since 1981. Returning juniors Brayden Parks and Ethan Posey, both Division I prospects, will continue anchoring the trenches as the Crusaders prepare for 2026.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Teegan Davis played football until his body wouldn’t allow him to play any more. The former Princeton High School all-stater made the decision to medically retire from the game after talking to Hawkeyes coach Kirk Ferentz upon returning to campus after the Christmas breakBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent is bringing his Offensive Skills Camp to St. Bede on Saturday, May 23, rain or shine, from 7 to 9 p.m. Spots are limited to the first 100 campers.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In a statement published Tuesday afternoon, Loyola announced the return of John Holecek as head football coach. Holecek went 185-36 and won three state titles from 2006-22. Beau Desherow, Loyola's head coach since 2023, will serve as general manager and assistant head coach.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Friday Night Drive is highlighting some of the top returning players at each position for the 2026 IHSA football season. Here are 10 of the top returning linebackers to watch as the season approaches.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In a season slowed by injuries and a tough schedule, Marist juniors Conor Hunt and Tommy Hosty made the most of position changes and increased roles. The two are ready to lead the RedHawks back to the playoffs in 2026.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Joe Kubal, an assistant coach at Bradley-Bourbonnais for the last 15 years, was announced as the Boilermakers next head football coach on Monday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After a 4-5 season and a first-round playoff exit, Loyola will look to bounce back in 2026. The Ramblers will return a core group of players including junior linebacker Will Mettee and sophomore wide receiver Jordan McKinley, both Power 4 prospects.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Friday Night Drive is highlighting some of the top returning players at each position for the 2026 IHSA football season. Here are 10 of the top defensive linemen to watch as the 2026 season approaches.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Junior running back Brandon Johnson Jr. and sophomore linebacker Jack Schapendonk were each instrumental in St. Rita's run to the IHSA Class 7A state finals in the fall. The two will be key players to watch as the Mustangs prepare for 2026.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Princeton Tigers football fans wanting to see their favorite team early this fall will have to get their road maps out. Five of the Tigers’ first seven games will be on the road, including the Aug. 21 opener at Port Byron Riverdale.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Whether on the football field or wrestling mat, Duke Mays is always active. Now, the junior is on the move again. A native of Joliet, he has returned home. The football and wrestling standout has transferred from Johnsburg to Joliet Catholic Academy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Montini four-star junior quarterback Israel Abrams announced his commitment to Miami (FL) during a broadcast of The Pat McAfee Show Friday afternoon. Abrams threw for 4,072 yards and 40 touchdowns in 2025, leading Montini to the IHSA Class 4A state title.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Friday Night Drive is highlighting some of the top returning players at each position for the 2026 IHSA football season. Here are 10 of the top returning offensive linemen to watch as the season approaches.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Fenwick junior Jake Thies announced his commitment to Iowa on Saturday. An All-CCL/ESCC selection in 2025, Thies rushed for over 1,100 yards, recorded nearly 60 tackles and helped lead the Friars to an IHSA 6A state title.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

A standout wrestler, Montini junior lineman Gavin Ericson-Staton has emerged as a three-star prospect and will be a top player for the Broncos in 2026. Blake Pohlman, a MaxPreps Freshman All-American, is a player to watch on defense.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Junior linebacker Derrick Pomatto became a two-way threat for Joliet Catholic in 2025, rushing for three touchdowns after taking on the role halfway through the season. Pomatto will be a player to watch as the Hilltoppers look to bounce back from a rare losing season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After helping St. Laurence reach the 6A semifinals, Sean Rice holds a dozen offers from Division I programs. The junior linebacker/tight end will be a key returning player for the Vikings, who have several seniors planning to play collegiately.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After 15 seasons as the head coach at his alma mater, Bradley-Bourbonnais' Mike Kohl has resigned. He will remain as the school's athletic director.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Grant Foes has always had ambitions to become a head football coach one day. That dream has been put on fast forward. Foes, 23, a 2021 Princeton High School graduate and former Tiger standout, has been named as the new head coach at Kokomo High School in Indiana.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

All-State running back Broden Mackert and Division I defensive line prospect Lamar Winfield are two Providence players who turned in strong junior seasons. The Celtics, who made the 5A state finals, will have 10 seniors playing collegiately.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Multiple Fenwick football players, including All-CCL/ESCC QB and CCL/ESCC White Offensive Player of the Year Jamen Williams, signed with collegiate programs during the National Signing Day period in early February.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

The La Salle-Peru football team has an all new nonconference schedule for 2026, adding Springfield Lanphier, Wheaton Academy, Alton and Marquette Academy to the schedule.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

The last two weeks Friday Night Drive has highlighted notable quarterbacks and running backs returning to Illinois prep gridirons next fall. This week is all about the receivers, with 10 pass-catchers to keep an eye on this coming fall.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Former Kankakee and University of Missouri standout Keagen Trost, two weeks after appearing at the NFL Scouting Combine, is getting ready for his Missouri pro day and the final steps of preparation for the NFL Draft.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

This spring, we at Friday Night Drive will start looking ahead to the fall with players we are keeping our eye on. After starting with quarterbacks last week, we move our attention to the running back position this week.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

It was a long and winding journey to get Ron Szudarski to his first varsity head football coaching position, but the veteran assistant is confident he can point Plainfield South in the right direction.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Several St. Francis football players, including All-CCL/ESCC and IHSFCA All-State wide receiver Dario Milivojevic, signed to continue on with collegiate programs during the National Signing Day period in early February.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Football is in Drake Davis’ blood. This week, he fulfilled a dream by landing his first head coaching job at Ottawa Marquette Academy. He said he knew Marquette was the right place for him with all of its tradition.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

This spring, we at Friday Night Drive will start looking ahead to the fall with players we are keeping our eye on. Who are some of the top players to watch in 2026? We will start with the quarterbacks.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Marquette Academy on Tuesday announced Drake Davis as the next head coach for the Crusaders football program, which has been a Class 1A playoff entrant each of the past 13 postseason.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Due to low numbers in its junior and senior classes, the Fieldcrest football program will only field a JV team this coming fall.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.