Week 7’s top five Chicago area games

Glenbrook South (5-1) at Maine South (5-1) Fri., 7 p.m.

It’s no secret that Maine South is talented this year. The Titans are flying under the radar though, so this is a major opportunity for Glenbrook South. The Titans’ only loss was a road game against No. 11 Barrington. Glenbrook South’s offense is driven by senior running back Savontae Garner, who has a knack for tacking on additional yards after contact. Maine South quarterback John O’Sullivan has been a difference maker for the Hawks, along with senior running back Fotis Kokosioulis. This game is a Central Suburban South momentum grabber.

Raby (6-0) vs. No. 4 Phillips (6-0) at Mandrake Park, Fri., 7 p.m.

A big matchup of undefeated Public League teams. Phillips started off the season by knocking of Class 8A power Loyola, followed by Richards and Simeon. The Wildcats are no surprise this season, with power players like lineman Terrance Taylor, running back Craig Elmore and quarterback J’Bore Gibbs all playing at the top of their game. Raby, however, is a surprise. They have only given up 18 total points this season and have had no problem putting up points on offense. Watch for senior running back Danquis Smith.

No. 10 Nazareth (6-0) at No. 6 Marist (6-0) Fri., 7:30 p.m.

This is a massive game in the East Suburban Catholic. Both teams have become more dominant as the season has progressed. Marist running back Delonte Harrell is an explosive runner. Indiana recruit Gavin McCabe and Minnesota recruit Elijah Teague lead the RedHawks’ big-time defense. Nazareth’s roster is stacked with impressive athletes, including jack-of-all trades junior Michael Love and running back Devin Blakley. The Roadrunners defense has turned heads this season as well, led by defensive lineman Isaiah Lee, an Iowa State recruit.

No. 22 South Elgin (6-0) at No. 13 Batavia (6-0) Fri., 7:30 p.m.

Batavia is fresh from a 49-0 win against Geneva. Bulldogs quarterback Riley Cooper threw for nearly 300 yards and was responsible for three touchdowns. Batavia has a multi-dimensional rushing attack with athletes like Reggie Phillips, Elijah Green, Jeremiah Evers, Jared Martin and Art Taylor all capable of making an impact. South Elgin continues to turn heads, averaging 40 points per game so far this season. Storm quarterback Nate Gomez threw five touchdown passes last week against West Chicago, three to receiver Jaron Wells.

No. 19 Neuqua Valley (5-1) at Wheaton North (5-1) Fri., 7:30 p.m.

The DuPage Valley schedule continues to provide great games. Two teams that have big postseason potential meet in a crucial conference game. Wheaton North has had big performances from senior running back Sam Singleton and solid efforts by the offensive line as a whole, allowing Singleton to show his explosiveness. Neuqua Valley won a close one, 31-28, against Naperville North last week. Kicker Stephen Ruiz made three field goals, including a 50-yard effort to carry the Wildcats to victory. Running backs Cam Raupach and Will Chevalier have been game changers for Neuqua Valley and will likely have to carry the load on Friday.