Good morning, Joliet.

Friday night, Nazareth defeated Joliet Catholic 48-21 in a Catholic League-ESCC crossover game as senior quarterback Jackson Failla threw a career-high six touchdown passes, including four caught by Jake Cestone.

The win improved the Roadrunners to a 4-1 record while the Hilltoppers fell to 1-4 and will host Notre Dame of Niles next Friday for Homecoming.

On Friday night, Lincoln-Way East beat Naperville Central 44-7 as quarterback Jonas Williams tied the state’s passing touchdown record by throwing two touchdown passes—completing 15-of-21 passes for 169 yards—before twisting his ankle.

His team maintained a strong lead throughout the game.

Montini’s football team beat Marmion 47-0 on Friday night for its 15th straight win, with quarterback Israel Abrams throwing for 250 yards and two touchdowns and Luca Florio returning a punt 67 yards for a touchdown.

The Broncos scored on five straight possessions—dominating early and outgaining Marmion 384-97.

In Week 5, high school football games in Will and Grundy counties saw teams post big wins and tough losses as Lincoln-Way Central beat DeKalb 45 to 7 and Lincoln-Way East won 44 to 7—leaving several teams with improved records and others looking to rebound next week.

Several schools like Morris and Wilmington also recorded strong wins—while upcoming match-ups will decide each team’s playoff hopes.

Shaw Local has released audio recaps of Week 5 high school football games in northern Illinois to help local fans catch up on key plays—letting listeners hear game highlights on the go.

Seneca quarterback Gunner Varland returned from illness to rush 100 yards on nine carries and score three touchdowns in the Irish's 50—17 win over Dwight.

He helped move the team to a 4—0 record in conference play after missing school earlier this week.

Plainfield Central avenged its 2024 loss by defeating Joliet Central 35-10 on homecoming night Friday — the Wildcats scored three second-quarter touchdowns and forced turnovers that shaped the game.

The win marked Plainfield Central's second victory of the season and a strong comeback after a tough start last year.

Providence hosted St. Francis for a varsity football game on Sept.

26 in New Lenox—players Tyler Payne and Broden Mackert made key plays during the non-conference match.

Yorkville celebrated their win over Oswego in a football game on Sept 26 that was filled with surprises, and Live with Friday Night Drive aired the recap from 9:30 p.m.–11 p.m. with hosts Steve Soucie and Matt Rodewald.

Classic Seger: Travelin' Man 2025 World Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $41.50 — Experience the legendary sounds of Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band with a thrilling live performance.

Stone & Steel Spooky 5K

8 a.m. — Joliet Downtown Property — Registration fee applicable — Dress in your best Halloween costume and run through historic Joliet.

The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $32.50 — Experience the timeless music of The Beatles with spot-on renditions by an award-winning tribute band.

Tenth Annual Miles of Possibility Route 66 Conference

5 PM - 4 PM — Joliet Area Historical Museum — Registration open — Explore the significance of Route 66 with insightful talks and activities.

Camping 101 Workshop

5:30-7 p.m. — Camp Bullfrog Lake — Free entry — Learn essential camping skills in a fun, informative workshop for all ages.

Jay White: The Sweet Caroline Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $35 — Experience the world’s most authentic Neil Diamond concert celebration featuring Jay White and musical excellence.

Stayin Alive - Bee Gees Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — Tickets from $24.50 — Experience the ultimate homage to the Bee Gees with hits like 'Stayin' Alive' and 'How Deep Is Your Love'.

STEAM Spooktacular: Mystery at the Museum

11 AM – 2 PM — Joliet Area Historical Museum — Free entry — Solve a Halloween mystery while exploring interactive STEAM activities for family fun.

Bat: A Meat Loaf Celebration

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Square Theatre — $56, $45, $35 — Experience the only authentic reimagining of Meat Loaf's legendary music with his official band.