STAFF RANKINGS
2. Bolingbrook 35: The 8A gauntlet starts Saturday with a game against a Lincoln-Way Central team that lost a tight 7-6 decision to the Raiders in Week 3. It's always tough to beat a conference team twice.
3. Lincoln-Way East 27: Nothing like jumping right into the fire. Lincoln-Way East begins the meat grinder known as the 8A playoffs against Naperville Central. The Griffins have reached the semis three straight years.
4. Morris 26: After playing a primarily 7-8A schedule, the Redskins get a shot at 5A in the playoffs. This might be like the Bears playing in the Big Ten. Look for Morris to take off against the Rockets from Burlington Central.
5. Lemont 19: Lemont has five shutouts this year, including a 42-0 drubbing of Bremen last week. Highland Park's last two opponents were a combined 1-17, so they may not be ready for a team like the Indians.
Others receiving votes: Lincoln-Way Central (9), Providence (6), Plainfield Central (4).
2. Peotone 11: The IHSA didn't do the Blue Devils any favors by sending them to Oregon in the opening week of the playoffs. Peotone relies on a strong running game and a good defense, both staples for postseason success.
3. Wilmington 7: Defense will be the key for the Wildcats in opening matchup with St. Thomas More, much as it has been all year. Wilmington's been here before, making its 12th straight playoff appearance.
Voting panel: Dick Goss, Bill Scheibe, Dave Parker, Ron Kremer, Rob Oesterle and Vic Reato.
How voting is tabulated: For large school, first place receives 7, second 6 and so on. For small schools, first place receives 3, second 2
