The Montini Catholic varsity football team from Lombard, IL, will face Monticello, IL, in a neutral playoff game today at 4 PM at Normal’s Hancock Stadium. This highly anticipated matchup is part of the 2024 Illinois High School Football Playoff Brackets: IHSA – Class 3A tournament, leading up to the IHSA 3A Football Championship.
IHSA 3A Football Championship Info:
What: IHSA 3A Football Championship
Who: Montini vs Monticello
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 4 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: IHSA 3A Football Championship
As the IHSA 3A Football Championship approaches, Monticello High School and Montini Catholic High School are preparing for a battle of titans. Both teams boast impressive records and have dominated their respective paths to the finals. Let’s take a closer look at the stats and dynamics that make this matchup so compelling.
Season Performance Overview
Monticello (11-2):
The Sages had a remarkable season, finishing with an overall record of 11-2 and a conference record of 5-2. Their home-field dominance (5-1) and ability to succeed on neutral ground (3-0) underline their adaptability and resilience. Offensively, Monticello has been electric, scoring 473 points while conceding 241, a testament to their balanced attack and strong defense.
Montini Catholic (11-2):
The Broncos enter the championship with an equally impressive 11-2 record, including a flawless 2-0 conference record and an unblemished 7-0 home record. Montini Catholic has been equally strong in neutral-site games, going 3-0. Defensively, they’ve been formidable, allowing just 126 points all season while racking up 391 points on offense. Their conference-winning percentage (1.000) highlights their dominance against league opponents.
Team Scoring Averages
While Monticello edges Montini Catholic in overall scoring average per game (36.4 to 30.1), the Broncos have displayed explosive starts, averaging 12.2 points in the first quarter compared to Monticello’s 8.4. The Sages, however, excel in sustaining their offense, particularly in the second quarter (12.4 points).
This clash may come down to Montini Catholic’s ability to establish an early lead against Monticello’s persistence throughout the game.
Playoff Strength
Both teams are undefeated in the playoffs (4-0), proving their mettle in high-stakes situations. Monticello’s high-powered offense has been critical in their playoff run, while Montini Catholic has relied on their stifling defense to neutralize opponents.
Head-to-Head Dynamics
This championship matchup marks the first meeting between these two programs this season. Neither team has faced common opponents, adding an extra layer of intrigue as they face off on neutral turf.
Key Factors to Watch
- Monticello’s Versatility: The Sages’ ability to adapt in various game scenarios, coupled with their balanced scoring, will be crucial. Look for quarterback play and key offensive contributions in crunch moments.
- Montini Catholic’s Defense: The Broncos have allowed just 126 points all season, showcasing one of the most dominant defenses in the state. Their ability to shut down Monticello’s high-octane offense will be pivotal.
- Neutral-Site Advantage: Both teams are undefeated on neutral fields (3-0), making this an even playing field. Execution in key moments will likely determine the winner.
Prediction
This game promises to be a classic clash between Monticello’s relentless scoring and Montini Catholic’s ironclad defense. Fans can expect a tightly contested battle where momentum swings and critical plays will decide the IHSA 3A Football Championship.
The stage is set, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. As the Sages and Broncos prepare to leave it all on the field, one thing is certain: this championship game will be a spectacle for football fans.
