Conference: West Suburban Silver
Head coach: Jon Beutjer
2025 record: 8-3 (Lost 45-21 to Fremd in the second round of the Class 8A playoffs)
2026 outlook:
Ten starters return for the Lions, who have reached the second round of the playoffs or beyond for four straight seasons.
Three are dynamic skill players in running back EJ Kuhlman, who ran for a program-record 246 yards against York last fall; tight end Owen Matela, a Miami (Ohio) commit; and receiver Tyler Stamm.
Liam Corrigan and Charlie Harrington are returning starters on the offensive line, with Harrington also back as a defensive-line starter with Aidan Webster.
Other starters back on defense include Nathan Fitzgerald, Cole Harris, Ian Collins and Brady Koren.
Some newcomers to watch include Aidan Angel, Declan Flynn, Thomas Green, Colman O’Sullivan, Ben Sosne, Kyndell Barnes and Jack Williams.