ICE Semifinal Discussion (AKA Wilmo vs. Downs)

[Wilmatucky]

Well we are one week away from the big dance. Heard the RC-Byron game was a tough out for RC. As much as I hate them, I give them props. I would have liked to see them advance.

2 Downs (Tri-Valley) @ 1 Wilmington - The bracket worked itself out as the seeding should. Two undefeated teams in the Semi-final matchup. 5pm Becker Field. The Harleys will be redlined as the Cats run out of the woods, (hopefully no one blows an engine). That is 7 pts right to start right there. Science remember?

I've always kind of seen Downs mentioned as a better team from the Central Illinois region. Never paid much attention. Later this week I will try to dig up some Hudl film. I am going to pick the Cats. Not just because it's home cooking, but I just don't see the big dogs on Downs Schedule. Tremont was the toughest team they played regular season, and I don't see any monsters on the schedule. Barely beat Taylor Ridge first round. Beat Dee-Mack a second time in round 2. Closer game with Farmington last week.

Wilmington on the other hand had a few tougher teams on their schedule. RC, CC, and Mac are all a step above anyone on Downs schedule. Wilmington looked like a well oiled machine the last two weeks. I just can't see them getting shut down this week.

I am going to say Wilmington in another physical affair. It may be close in the first half but they will run away with it. Pun intended. Wilmington 35 Downs 14

 

[doctor_d]

Calpreps has this as a toss up, actually predicting TV to win on a neutral field.

I know TV has a nice dual threat QB, and a solid program under coach Josh Roop. They won the 2015 2A title and are a perennial playoff team.
Wilmington just seems to be playing on another level lately. They’ve come a long way from the start of the season. Had some games where they were really grinding to get points, but those days seem like a long time ago. I think Wilmo might give up some points to a solid dual threat team, but Southall and the O prevails.

 

[McEvergreen]

2A Downs Tri-Valley @ Wilmington. Home game for Wilmington means bikes and woods, baby. Ain't that right Wiltuck?!?! Folks, if you've never been there to see it, do yourself a favor and get there. I don't care if you live in Carbondale, it's totally worth the drive and Brandon's gas prices!

Tri-Valley played the softer schedule, but they are no stranger to the big stage. One state championship and one runner up, Roop has been there done that. I want to say he was the running back on Leroy's 1996 state championship team but not sure? I have no idea how well they travel, but that long drive up is never easy...... unless you're ESL of course.

It's no big secret, Reents is one of the best coaches in the state. All the guy does is WIN. If the Cats don't have to throw the ball, they will be just fine. That double wing bulldozing wall of purple gets better and better every week and their defense is always lights out. I'm going to say Wilmington by 20+ and I will see you in Dekalb!

 

[Alexander32]

Downs is less than a two hour drive to Wilmington; so not too bad. Certainly nothing like coming from the St. Louis area.

 

[McEvergreen]

Downs is less than a two hour drive to Wilmington; so not too bad. Certainly nothing like coming from the St. Louis area.

My bad. When I was typing that, I was picturing Downs as being located outside of Springfield instead of Bloomington, duh. You're right, not a bad drive at all 👍

 

[Bobby Boucher 9]

Jake Roop was the Running Back for the 96 Leroy Panthers. Coach Josh Roop is his Cousin.

 

[Coalertown44]

Downs @ Wilmo. I can't say I know much bout Downs Tri Valley. They beat some traditionally goo teams this year who looked like they maybe weren't as good as usual. Playoff run has been less eye popping as Wilmos. But they are a good coached team that will definitely put Wilmo to the test. The Cats are playing their best football and are likely to keep it going. Wilmo 31 Downs 20
I do unfortunately think Wilmo will meet a test that they cannot pass next weekend in St Teresa

 

[McEvergreen]

Jake Roop was the Running Back for the 96 Leroy Panthers. Coach Josh Roop is his Cousin.

Got it. Thanks!

 

[McEvergreen]

Downs @ Wilmo. I can't say I know much bout Downs Tri Valley. They beat some traditionally goo teams this year who looked like they maybe weren't as good as usual. Playoff run has been less eye popping as Wilmos. But they are a good coached team that will definitely put Wilmo to the test. The Cats are playing their best football and are likely to keep it going. Wilmo 31 Downs 20
I do unfortunately think Wilmo will meet a test that they cannot pass next weekend in St Teresa

What is St. T running offensively? I haven't seen them in at least 10 years.

 

[Coalertown44]

What is St. T running offensively? I haven't seen them in at least 10 years.

Pistol/Spread. Very good run and pass game. Wilmo will have to play keep away if they both make it to Dekalb

 

[FCHS2019]

Wilmo 35-7, TV plays in a 1A/2A conference and WIlmo plays in whats been a 3A/4A conference..

 

[SouthofI80FootballFan]

The ICE started with 8, dwindled down to 5, and are now down to 1. Many are not surprised to see the Wildcats still playing after dropping down to 2A but after defeating 2 straight solid Catholic programs, quite handily I may add, this team is on fire on both sides of the ball.

However, Tri Valley is no pushover. They have one of the most consistent programs in the State and their conference has numerous State Championships in the past 5 or so years. For only having a football program since the 02-03 season, they have created a tradition of winning. They have an All State QB that nobody has been able to contain this season. They are fundamentally sound on both sides of the ball which is illustrative of the coaching staff. Lots of speed by both the line and the skill players have caused issues for defenses and they are always 1 play away from a touchdown. The defense is solid and has only given up more than 20 points one time this season.

Most are familiar with the Cats run game and stout defense. Other than a few big plays vs Mac, the Cats consistently shut down the Irish and a late TD made the game loom closer than it really was. The offense keeps rolling behind a 3 headed backfield who can churn out 3-4 yards a carry but have the ability to break a big run at anytime. When a team has two 1,000, the o line is doing something right.

Both teams have great traditions, somewhat contrasting styles of play, but the Cats have shown all season they are up to the challenge. If they can slow down the QB and a few of the other skill kids for TV, it will turn in to a trip to DeKalb for the Cats. If TV can stop three run, force Wilmington to pass, and score on every opportunity, they will win. However, I see the Cats winning a close one 33-21.

 

[Wilmatucky]

the Cats consistently shit down the Irish........

Insult or typo? LOL

 

[SouthofI80FootballFan]

Insult or typo? LOL

Definitely a typo! Went back and fixed it.