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Naperville Central defeated Neuqua Valley 21–17 on October 16, rallying from an early deficit and answering each scoring drive to secure the victory on its home field. The Redhawks’ defense contributed four turnovers, helping keep the game within reach and setting up the team’s comeback.
Naperville Central tied the game in the second quarter when Simon Hayes connected with Ian Figi for a 20-yard touchdown pass. After Neuqua Valley took a 10–7 lead with a 36-yard field goal, Hayes threw a 58-yard touchdown pass to Mark Williams, giving the Redhawks a 14–10 halftime advantage. Eron Kennedy blocked a field goal late in the first half to help preserve the lead. Neuqua Valley moved ahead 17–14 in the third quarter, but Hayes and Williams answered with a 26-yard touchdown pass to put Naperville Central back in front, 21–17.
Neither team scored in the fourth quarter, and Hari Santhaman sealed the victory with a clutch interception in the end zone. Hayes finished with 196 passing yards and three touchdowns, while Williams recorded five receptions for 106 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Jacobson added 88 rushing yards on 15 carries, and Figi finished with four receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown.
The Redhawks qualified for the IHSA Football Playoffs as the No. 29 seed with a 5–4 regular-season record. They will face No. 36 Warren (Gurnee Warren) in the first round, with the winner advancing to play No. 4 Oswego, which received a first-round bye. The Redhawks are ready.
