The IHSA football playoffs kick off with an intriguing first-round matchup as the Normal Ironmen (7-2) travel to Mundelein to face the Carmel Catholic Corsairs (7-2).

Normal enters the postseason looking to rebound from a 36-14 loss at Peoria last week, leaning on the senior leadership of running back Cole Kretsinger, quarterback Noah Gulley and receivers Michael Mavec and Luke Potts.

Carmel Catholic rides a three-game winning streak into the playoffs, fresh off a 38-24 victory over Fenwick in which junior quarterback Trae Taylor showcased his arm talent with 401 passing yards and two touchdowns, while sophomore running back Jaquel Edmonds contributed 101 rushing yards and a score.

Opening kickoff is set for 1 p.m. CT on Saturday, November 1 with a live TV broadcast on NFHS Network

See Full Page