ELMHURST, IL – The lights at Immaculate Conception High School will burn bright tonight as two undefeated teams, the Woodstock North Thunder and the IC Catholic Prep Knights, prepare for a pivotal Week 2 non-conference battle. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM on Friday, September 5, 2025, in a matchup that pits a high-octane offensive machine against a traditionally stout defensive powerhouse.
Both teams enter the contest with pristine 1-0 records, but they arrived at that mark in dramatically different fashion. The story of this game will be written by which team can impose its will and maintain its perfect start to the 2025 campaign.
What: Illinois High School Football
Who: Woodstock North vs IC Catholic Prep
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Immaculate Conception High School
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Explosive Offense Meets Disciplined Defense
The Woodstock North Thunder exploded out of the gate in Week 1, posting a staggering 68-0 victory that sent shockwaves through the Illinois high school football landscape. Their offense operated at a blistering, video-game pace, averaging an unbelievable 68.0 points per game. The scoring breakdown reveals a team that starts fast and never lets up: 35.0 points in the first quarter alone, followed by 13.0 in the second, 13.0 in the third, and 7.0 in the fourth.
Conversely, the IC Catholic Prep Knights secured a decisive 33-7 win, a victory built on the foundation of a strong, disciplined defense that surrendered only a single touchdown. While their scoring averages per quarter are not specified in the available data, their 33-point output demonstrates an efficient and capable offense that capitalizes on opportunities. Defensively, the Knights’ unit allows a mere 6.0 points per game, creating a classic “immovable object vs. unstoppable force” narrative.
Key Players to Watch
The Thunder’s offensive fireworks are fueled by a multi-faceted attack. Quarterback Nate Lang (#13) is the engine, averaging 92.0 passing yards per game and accounting for 103.0 total yards of offense himself. His primary target through the air is receiver Anthony Carroccio (#7), who hauls in an average of 48.0 receiving yards per contest. The ground game is anchored by Luke Goggin (#5), who chips in 42.0 rushing yards per game.
However, the Thunder are far from a one-dimensional team. Their defense was equally dominant in the shutout win, led by linebacker Romeo Woods (#40), a tackling machine who averages 7.0 stops per game. Up front, defensive force Foley Calcagno (#45) applies constant pressure, recording 1.0 sack per game.
The Knights counter with a defense that flies to the ball, amassing 57.0 tackles per game as a unit. Their pass rush is formidable, averaging 2.0 sacks per game, which will be crucial in disrupting Lang’s rhythm in the pocket. Offensively, IC Catholic Prep’s balanced attack grinds out 286.0 total yards per game, with a steady run game (101.0 yards) and an effective passing attack (185.0 yards). While individual stat leaders are not listed for the Knights, their collective effort and system-based approach are their greatest strengths. Scoring leader Will Schmidt (#1) found the end zone in their first outing and will be a key figure again tonight.
What’s at Stake?
Beyond the 2-0 start, this game is a critical benchmark for both programs. For Woodstock North, a victory over a historically strong program like IC Catholic Prep, which is ranked 21st in the state, would legitimize their explosive start and announce them as a serious threat in Illinois. For the Knights, defending their home turf and handing the Thunder their first loss would reaffirm their status as a perennial state power and prove their defensive model can stifle any offense.
The intangibles also favor the Knights. Playing at home provides a familiar environment and crowd support. Their schedule and tradition of facing tough competition may have them better prepared for a high-pressure fight.
How to Watch
Fans who cannot make it to Elmhurst can catch all the action live from Immaculate Conception High School via the NFHS Network stream. This highly anticipated matchup is one you will not want to miss.
Final Thoughts
This is more than just a non-conference game; it’s a stylistic clash that will test both teams’ identities. Can Woodstock North’s offensive tsunami continue to roll against a far sturdier dam? Or will IC Catholic Prep’s disciplined defense prove that fundamentals and toughness ultimately trump sheer firepower?
One thing is certain: when the Woodstock North Thunder and the IC Catholic Prep Knights clash under the Friday night lights, it will be must-see football. Expect a hard-hitting, emotional game that could come down to a single critical turnover or a clutch fourth-quarter drive.
For continued coverage of this game and all Illinois high school football news, scores, and analysis throughout the season, make sure to follow the action at HS Football Insider.
Prediction: This game has all the makings of an instant classic. While Woodstock North’s offense is terrifying, the proven track record and defensive prowess of IC Catholic Prep, especially at home, gives them a slight edge. Look for the Knights to control the clock with their running game and make just enough key defensive stops to secure a narrow victory.
