This has got to be one of the most fun matchups in the state of Illinois.
Fun for a lot of people, but not Ken Leonard. He has said on numerous occasions that he HATES this game because it means he has to coach AGAINST his son. I am not sure if the feeling is mutual from Derek's perspective, however.
While the game will definitely get its usual media coverage all this week, it still remains one game out of nine for each team. I think Rochester's performance will say a lot about their prospects for winning the probable matchup with Althoff in the 4A postseason, and probably their prospects for winning it all in 4A. I think SHG is a tougher opponent than any team Althoff has faced (or will face) this season, so a Rochester victory or a highly competitive showing should bode well for them, and label them as the top team in 4A to beat, regardless of what the polls say.
As far as SHG is concerned, I think a victory by them will simply tell us that they are able to beat the class of the 4A field. It will say NOTHING about their prospects for the 6A postseason. Their prospects for a lot of postseason success is dim at best, and regardless of the outcome of this week's Rochester game, that will not change.
To answer your question of last week, Edgy: No, the Cyclones will not be able to play smash mouth football against the top 6A schools outside the greater Springfield area. Heck, until this week's game against Rochester is completed, there is still the question of whether or not they can play smash mouth with the top 4A team IN the greater Springfield area!!
