by The Oswego Panthers (8-2) travel to face the Lane Tech Champions (9-1) in the second round of Class 8A IHSA playoffs Saturday.
Lane Tech head coach Deshon Donley is well aware of the significant challenge the Panthers pose.
“I think Oswego will be the best team we’ve played this season. A very well coached team that is used to playing football in November,” Donley said. “They will be physical, and they will play sound, mistake free football.”
Donley emphasized his team’s approach heading into the matchup. “As for Lane Tech, I just look for us to accept the challenge. Attempt to get off to a good start, and just play Lane Tech football. Protect the football offensively and sustain drives. Defensively, just tackle well and follow the game plan.”
The Champions look to build on a dominant defensive showing last week that saw them force multiple turnovers and held their opponent to just one touchdown.
Owego enters the matchup riding a three-game winning streak after defeating the Naperville North Huskies 17-7 in the first round. Panthers head coach Brian Cooney stressed the necessity of focus and execution against the Champions.
“Lane Tech is a team that brings challenges in all three phases of the game and we will have to be technical in our approach, disciplined in our execution, and committed to doing the little things the right way,” Cooney said.
The Panthers are looking to return to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2019 and will try to slow down Lane Tech’s offense early.
The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 8, at 1 p.m. CT.
