The Tolono Unity (Tolono, IL) varsity football team will play a neutral-site playoff game against Monticello (IL) today at 2 p.m. This matchup is part of the 2024 Illinois High School Football Playoff Brackets for Class 3A.
What: Illinois High School Football
Who: Tolono Unity (IL) vs Monticello (IL)
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2024 Illinois High School Football Playoff Brackets: IHSA – Class 3A
Live stream: Watch live on NFHS Network
Monticello vs. Tolono Unity: A High-Stakes Football Showdown
As the football season intensifies, Monticello (24-25) and Tolono Unity (24-25) are gearing up for a crucial matchup. These two teams are not just rivals—they’re also contenders in their respective classes, both having secured impressive records throughout the season.
Team Overview
Monticello has posted an overall record of 10-2, with a strong 5-2 performance in conference play. Their success has largely been driven by their explosive offense, scoring an average of 39.1 points per game. The team has been particularly effective in rushing, with a notable 217.8 yards per game, and quarterback Dane Eisenmenger has emerged as a key player, leading the team with an impressive 216.3 passing yards per game.
In comparison, Tolono Unity comes into the game with a 9-3 record, boasting a dominant conference performance of 6-1. While their overall points per game (40.5) are slightly higher than Monticello’s, their offense is also balanced. With 228.6 passing yards per game and 217.8 rushing yards, they show versatility in their attack. The standout player for Tolono Unity is quarterback Dane Eisenmenger, who leads the team with 232.5 total yards per game and is also their top scorer with 12 points per game.
Key Matchup: Scoring Power
Both teams have demonstrated the ability to put up significant numbers on offense. Monticello averages 37.5 points per game, with a balanced attack, including solid performances across the first three quarters. Tolono Unity, on the other hand, has a slightly better scoring average of 40.5 points per game, with a particularly strong second quarter (16.2 points) that often sets the tone for the rest of the game.
The most recent head-to-head between these two teams saw Tolono Unity emerge victorious, securing a 42-28 win on October 25th. Monticello showed resilience, especially in the second half, but was ultimately unable to overcome Unity’s early lead.
Player Spotlights
For Monticello, senior Garrett Richardson has been an offensive juggernaut, leading the team with 149.2 rushing yards per game. He has been a key contributor to Monticello’s strong rushing attack, providing balance alongside Eisenmenger’s arm. Tre Hoggard has been equally impressive in the receiving game, with 113.6 yards per game.
Tolono Unity’s success has largely been fueled by their quarterback and playmaker, Eisenmenger. His ability to rack up both passing and total yards (232.5 per game) makes him a constant threat. Additionally, the team has a strong defensive presence, with Coleton Langendorf leading in tackles per game (8.5) and sacks (0.6), helping to maintain pressure on opposing offenses.
Head-to-Head Comparison and Common Opponents
Both teams have faced similar opponents this season, with Monticello posting a 6-1 record against common opponents and Tolono Unity holding a 6-2 mark. Notably, both teams have experienced losses to St. Joseph-Ogden, with Monticello falling 40-28 and Tolono Unity suffering a 24-21 defeat. However, Tolono Unity bested Monticello’s other common opponents in dominating fashion, including a 35-7 victory over St. Joseph-Ogden.
When it comes to their respective conference and non-conference performance, Tolono Unity has been more dominant in league play, with a 6-1 conference record. Monticello has faced stiffer competition outside of conference play, with losses coming from non-league games. This may give Tolono Unity an edge, particularly in conference matchups.
Playoff Picture
Both teams have been strong contenders in their playoff brackets, with Monticello having a perfect 3-0 record in neutral-site games, while Tolono Unity has also been flawless, posting a 3-0 mark. The stakes are high, with this game potentially determining who moves forward with momentum into the later rounds of the postseason.
Conclusion
As Monticello and Tolono Unity prepare to meet again in the playoffs, the game promises to be a thrilling contest between two highly skilled and competitive teams. With explosive offenses, standout players, and a history of tight matchups, fans are in for an exciting game. Monticello will need to adjust their strategy to overcome Tolono Unity’s balanced offensive attack, while Unity will look to capitalize on their recent win and momentum.
