Class 8A: No. 2 Loyola at No. 4 York, 1 p.m. Saturday
Loyola (11-1) has lost lead back Will Nimesheim to a knee injury but still has one of the state’s premier quarterbacks in Holy Cross recruit Jake Stearney (2,347 total yards, 36 touchdowns) and a deep receiving corps. Michigan-bound defensive end Brooks Bahr leads the defense for the Ramblers, who are seeking their first trip to state since 2018. York (12-0), in the semifinals for the second time in program history, has never played for a state title. But coach Mike Fitzgerald has taken the Dukes to the top of the rugged West Suburban Silver and beyond. York also has a savvy senior quarterback in Matt Vezza, a capable group of pass catchers and a proven senior back in Kelly Watson.
