Due to a few surprise regular season losses down the stretch the Class 8A bracket wasn’t formed in the way that a lot of people expected.

As such, some of the more dynamic matchups are potentially coming up on the schedule quicker than expecting.

Adding another wrinkle is the dispatching of three-time defending state champion Loyola from the field in the opening round by Mount Carmel.

A new team is going to hoist the big trophy in a few weeks and the second round should very much shape who that might be.

First round predictions: 15-1

Second-round matchups

Mount Carmel vs. Belleville East: The Caravan are the favorite to win the 8A title, but got what they hope is the biggest scare along the way right out of the gate having to rally late to beat Loyola for the second time in two

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