CHICAGO, IL – The lights at Mt. Carmel’s stadium will burn a little brighter tonight. In a matchup that needs no introduction to Illinois high school football purists, the St. Rita Mustangs (1-0) travel to face the #2-ranked Chicago Mt. Carmel Caravan (1-0) in a colossal Week 2 non-conference showdown. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM on Friday, September 5, 2025.

This game is more than just two undefeated teams meeting early in the season. It is a classic Catholic League Blue rivalry, a brutal physical test, and a potential playoff preview rolled into one. For a complete look at all the action across the state, follow our coverage of Illinois High School Football events.

What: Illinois High School Football
Who: St. Rita vs Chicago Mt. Carmel
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Chicago Mt. Carmel
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

A Tale of Two Opening Wins

Both teams enter this marquee contest with 1-0 records, but they arrived there in dramatically different fashion.

The St. Rita Mustangs grinded out a hard-fought 28-21 victory. Their performance was a model of balance and resilience. The offense, under the steady command of quarterback Steven Armbruster (#5), proved efficient. Armbruster threw for 162 yards and, with 180 total yards of offense, was the engine that drove the Mustangs. His primary target, receiver Donovan Evans (#7), hauled in 59 receiving yards, providing a reliable downfield threat.

The ground game, however, set the tone. Running back Brandon Johnson Jr. (#23) was a workhorse, pounding out 85 rushing yards against a tough defensive front. Defensively, the Mustangs were led by the relentless tackling of Owen Lynch (#1), who racked up an impressive 10 tackles in Week 1. Kicker Saul Ruiz (#32) also played a crucial role, adding 4 points in a game ultimately decided by a single score.

In stark contrast, the Mt. Carmel Caravan’s season opener was a high-octane, white-knuckle thriller. They emerged victorious from a 43-42 shootout, a game that showcased explosive offensive potential but also raised questions about defensive consistency. While their individual stat leaders are not yet recorded, putting up 43 points signals a deep and potent offensive unit capable of striking from anywhere on the field.

Their national ranking of #62 and Illinois ranking of #2 in Class 1 speak to the immense talent and high expectations surrounding the Caravan program this season. They have established themselves as a state title contender.

Key Matchups to Watch

The outcome of this game will likely hinge on a few critical battles at the line of scrimmage and in the open field.

1. St. Rita’s Ball Control vs. Mt. Carmel’s Firepower: The Mustangs’ formula for success is clear: establish the run with Johnson Jr., manage the game with Armbruster, and control the clock. Their 299 total yards per game demonstrate a methodical, sustained-drive approach. Conversely, Mt. Carmel’s offense looks to operate at a faster tempo and score quickly. Can St. Rita’s offense, led by Lynch’s defensive unit, possess the ball long enough to keep Mt. Carmel’s playmakers on the sideline?

2. The Trenches: This game will be won or lost in the trenches. St. Rita’s offensive line must create running lanes for Johnson and provide protection for Armbruster against what is sure to be a fierce Mt. Carmel pass rush. On the other side, the Caravan’s offensive line must handle a St. Rita defensive front that proved it can make key stops in Week 1.

3. Quarterback Composure: Steven Armbruster showed poise in his first outing. Now, he must lead his team into one of the most hostile environments in high school football. His decision-making against a talented Caravan secondary will be paramount. For Mt. Carmel, their quarterback will need to replicate his Week 1 performance against a more disciplined and prepared St. Rita defense.

What’s at Stake?

While this is a non-conference game, the implications are massive.

For Mt. Carmel, a win solidifies their top-ranking and proves their shootout victory was no fluke, but a sign of an elite offense. It builds immense momentum as they head into the heart of their schedule.

For St. Rita, a victory on the road against the state’s #2 team would be a program-defining statement. It would announce the Mustangs as legitimate Class 2 title contenders and prove they can win against any style of play.

Furthermore, this game serves as a crucial data point for playoff seeding later in the year. A strong performance against a highly-ranked opponent from a larger class can significantly boost a team’s playoff résumé.

The Rivalry Factor

The St. Rita vs. Mt. Carmel rivalry is steeped in history and tradition. These two Catholic League powerhouses have battled for decades, often with conference championships and state playoff berths on the line. The games are known for their intensity, physicality, and electric atmosphere. Players on both sides grew up watching this rivalry, and they understand the weight of the jersey they wear in this specific game. That history adds an intangible layer of motivation that transcends records and rankings.

How to Follow the Action

With a game of this magnitude, fans are encouraged to secure their digital tickets in advance via GoFan to ensure entry. The stands are expected to be packed to capacity.

For those unable to attend, both schools are seeking live reporters to provide real-time updates and commentary. Fans can follow along with score updates and key play-by-play through various scoretracker services.

The Final Word

On paper, the Mt. Carmel Caravan enter as the favorites. Their high-powered offense and superior state ranking make them a formidable opponent, especially on their home field. However, to dismiss the St. Rita Mustangs would be a grave mistake.

Coach Todd Kuska’s squad embodies a tough, disciplined, and physical brand of football. They are built to win close games and withstand offensive barrages. Their balanced attack can exploit weaknesses and their defense has already shown a knack for making crucial stops.

This is the beauty of a rivalry game: throw the stats out the window. It will come down to execution, heart, and which team can impose its will.

Will Mt. Carmel’s explosive offense run away with it, or will St. Rita’s methodical, physical game plan grind out a statement victory?

One thing is certain: under the Friday night lights in Chicago, two titans of Illinois high school football are ready for war. This is must-see football.

For continuing coverage of this game and all the latest news, scores, and analysis from across the state, stay locked into Illinois High School Football events.