CCL football: Here are 5 storylines to watch in the first round of the 2026 IHSA playoffs

The Chicago Catholic League will be well represented in the first round of the 2026 IHSA football playoffs. CCL teams went 12-1 during the opening round, while eight teams including defending state champions Mount Carmel, Brother Rice, Fenwick and Montini played well enough to earn opening-round byes in the playoffs.As a result, 20 CCL teams are set to compete in the first round this weekend. Here are five storylines to watch on Friday and Saturday.How will defending state champions fare in the first round?In the only first-round matchup involving two CCL teams, Mount Carmel hosts Marist in a Class 8A CCL Blue rematch. The Caravan, who rolled over the RedHawks 56-26 behind 295 yards and five touchdowns from quarterback Brady Cloherty in Week 4, are seeking a school-record fifth consecutive IHSA state championship.Brother Rice opens its defense of the Class 7A title with a first-round game against St. Charles North. The Crusaders and North Stars squared off in the quarterfinals last sea