25 Facts About The IHSA Football Playoffs

History of IHSA Football Playoffs

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Football Playoffs have a rich history. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied competition.

1. The IHSA Football Playoffs began in 1974. Before that, state champions were determined by polls.

2. The first championship games were held at Illinois State University. Hancock Stadium hosted the inaugural event.

3. In 1981, the playoffs expanded to include six classes. This allowed more teams to compete for the title.

4. The playoff format changed again in 2001, adding two more classes. Now, there are eight classes, ranging from 1A to 8A.

Memorable Moments

The IHSA Football Playoffs have seen some unforgettable moments. Here are a few that stand out.

5. In 1995, Providence Catholic won its fourth consecutive state title. This set a record for the most consecutive championships.

6. The 2006 championship game between Wheaton Warrenville South and Lake Zurich ended in a thrilling 31-24 overtime victory for Wheaton.

7. In 2010, Rochester High School began its dynasty. They won seven consecutive state titles from 2010 to 2016.

8. The 2019 Class 8A championship saw Lincoln-Way East defeat Warren Township 12-0. This game was notable for its defensive prowess.

Notable Players

Many players who competed in the IHSA Football Playoffs went on to achieve great things. Here are some notable alumni.

9. Dick Butkus, a Chicago Vocational High School alum, became an NFL Hall of Famer. He played for the Chicago Bears.

10. Simeon Rice, who played for Mount Carmel High School, went on to have a successful NFL career. He won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

11. Rashard Mendenhall, a Niles West High School graduate, played in the NFL. He won a Super Bowl with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

12. Jeff George, who played for Warren Township High School, was the first overall pick in the 1990 NFL Draft.

Record-Breaking Performances

The IHSA Football Playoffs have seen some incredible individual and team performances. Here are a few records that stand out.

13. In 1994, Matt Suhey of St. Rita rushed for 372 yards in a single playoff game. This remains a record.

14. The 2014 Cary-Grove team set a record for the most points scored in a single playoff game. They scored 83 points against Rockford Auburn.

15. In 2018, East St. Louis set a record for the most points scored in a single season. They scored 775 points.

16. The 2012 Loyola Academy team set a record for the most consecutive shutouts in the playoffs. They had four straight shutouts.

Unique Aspects

The IHSA Football Playoffs have some unique aspects that make them special. Here are a few interesting facts.

17. The playoff games are played in various weather conditions. Teams have competed in snow, rain, and freezing temperatures.

18. The championship games are now held at Northern Illinois University's Huskie Stadium. This venue has hosted the finals since 2013.

19. The IHSA uses a point system to determine playoff qualifiers. Teams earn points based on their regular-season performance.

20. The playoffs feature a single-elimination format. One loss means a team is out of the competition.

Community Impact

The IHSA Football Playoffs have a significant impact on local communities. Here are some ways they make a difference.

21. The playoffs bring communities together. Fans, students, and alumni come out to support their teams.

22. Local businesses benefit from the increased traffic. Restaurants, hotels, and shops see a boost in sales during playoff season.

23. The playoffs provide opportunities for student-athletes to showcase their talents. Many players earn college scholarships based on their performance.

24. The games are often broadcast on local television and radio. This allows fans who can't attend to follow the action.

25. The IHSA Football Playoffs create lasting memories. Players, coaches, and fans remember these games for a lifetime.

The Final Whistle

The IHSA Football Playoffs are more than just a series of games. They’re a celebration of high school sportsmanship, community spirit, and athletic excellence. From the intense rivalries to the unforgettable moments on the field, these playoffs bring out the best in student-athletes and their supporters. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, the excitement and pride that come with each game are unmatched. The history, traditions, and sheer passion surrounding the IHSA Football Playoffs make them a cornerstone of Illinois high school sports. So next time you catch a game, remember the dedication and hard work that go into every play. Here’s to the teams, the memories, and the future stars of the IHSA Football Playoffs.