Hitters in the News

The IHSA compiled a committee of current and former high school football coaches, administrators, and media members to select the Top 50 Football Programs during the playoff era (1974 to 2024). Glenbard West ranked in at number 29.

Despite the win, Glenbard West (4-5, 3-3) will miss the postseason for the first time since 2006.

Glenbard West, which has never missed the playoffs under head coach Chad Hetlet since he came aboard in 2007, kept its playoffs hopes alive with a 51-0 win over Proviso West last week. Mateo Guzman returned two interceptions for TDs and Teyion Oriental and JaMarcus Kelly each had TD runs. Glenbard West beat OPRF 48-8 last year. If 4-5 teams are needed to fill out the playoff field, the Hilltoppers should be near the front of the line with 45 current playoff points. They also should know where they stand by the 1 p.m. Saturday kickoff.

The Hilltoppers find their streak of 16 straight playoff appearances in serious jeopardy.

But after six 4-5 teams qualified last season, including eventual state champion Nazareth, there’s a glimmer of hope.

Glenbard West has 40 playoff points and remaining games against Proviso West (2-5) and Oak Park (1-6). Win both and give yourself a chance, right?

Glenbard West (2-5, 1-3) at Proviso West (2-5, 0-4)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday. With a large amount of playoff points, currently 40, Glenbard West could figure to become one of the first 4-5s to make the field. FND Pick: Glenbard West

For Glenbard West (2-5, 1-3), which had ruined York’s bid for a perfect regular season last fall, the defeat left the Hilltoppers on the brink of missing the postseason for the first time since Chad Hetlet took over the program in 2007.

York (5-1, 2-1) at Glenbard West (2-4, 1-2)
When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday. FND Pick: York

Oriental said he felt about 80%, but his presence turned the Hilltoppers’ offense around completely in a 35-14 victory.

After sitting out the last four games with an injury – three of which led to losses by the Hilltoppers– Oriental returned to the field against Hinsdale Central.

Hinsdale Central (2-3, 0-2) at Glenbard West (1-4, 0-2)
When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday. FND Pick: Hinsdale Central

The Hitters beat Leyden 63-0, on the back of four touchdowns by Hitter RB JaMarcus Kelly, setting new Leyden records for most points allowed in a loss and largest point margin ever.

Leyden (3-1) at Glenbard West (0-4)
When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday. FND Pick: Glenbard West