Powered by 252 rushing yards and a punishing ground attack led by Jaylen McMiller’s 190 yards, the Hitters knocked off previously unbeaten and state-ranked Lyons Township 37-16. The defensive "Darkside" repeatedly stood tall in critical moments, highlighted by key stops, an interception from Grady Brennan, and an 80-yard catch-and-run touchdown from AJ Rayford to sophomore Jack Kovich. Despite battling through a flurry of penalties and three turnovers, Glenbard West controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball to pull away in the second half. Coach Chad Hetlet praised the squad for playing disciplined, complementary football to secure a resounding victory against an elite 8A opponent.