The showdown for first place in the North Suburban Conference and the NSC football title was on the line when Lake Zurich hosted Warren Friday night.

No. 6-ranked in Class 8A Warren jumped out to a 20-7 halftime lead over No. 7-ranked Class 6A Lake Zurich behind the strength of Illinois-bound running back Aaron Stewart.

Trailing 27-10 midway through the fourth quarter, the Bears put together a valiant comeback attempt, but the Blue Devils (7-1, 6-0) were able to seal a 27-17 NSC victory.

With wins over Lake Zurich (6-2, 5-1) and Stevenson (6-2, 5-1), Warren has won the tie-breaker for the NSC crown. But it wants to finish strong next week against Libertyville.

After a scoreless first quarter, Stewart (194 yards on 17 carries in first half) broke free up the middle for a 52-yard tou

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