Conference: Catholic League Blue
Head coach: Casey Quedenfeld
2025 record: 13-1 (Defeated St. Rita 16-0 in Class 7A state championship)
2026 outlook:
After winning the program’s second state title and first since 1981, the Crusaders are well-positioned for another long playoff run.
Seven starters return, highlighted by the elite defensive duo of senior tackle Brayden Parks (6-2, 310) and junior edge Kameron McGee (6-4, 245).
Parks is a four-star prospect committed to Notre Dame. In 247Sports’ composite rankings, he’s No. 10 in Illinois in the 2027 recruiting cycle and No. 199 nationally. Last year, he finished with 60 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks.
McGee, a five-star prospect, is No. 2 in Illinois and No. 25 overall. He has 40 Power Four offers after posting 48 tackles, 9.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss as a sophomore.
Senior nickel back Damari Thigpen (5-9, 175) also returns as a defensive starter.
Back as offensive regulars are senior lineman Ethan Posey (6-4, 305), senior running back Jameson Davis (5-10, 195), junior tight end Jack McNamara (6-5, 245) and senior receiver Lucas Strang (6-0, 175). Posey is committed to Miami (Ohio), while Davis is committed to Army. McNamara has almost 30 Power Four offers.
Also back with experience are senior offensive lineman Tyler Frazier (6-0, 320), senior safety Jonathan Harris (6-2, 175), junior cornerback Jordan Moore (6-3, 180), senior quarterback Rocco Galasso (5-10, 180) and senior linebacker Manny Uriarte (5-10, 200).
Schedule
Aug. 21 at Lincoln-Way East, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 28 Woodlawn, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4 St. Francis, 7 p.m.
Sept. 11 at Loyola, 7 p.m.
Sept. 18 at Niles Notre Dame, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 25 Mount Carmel, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 2 Fenwick, 7 p.m.
Oct. 9 at DePaul Prep, 7 p.m.
Oct. 16 Marist, 7 p.m.