1. Mt. Carmel and Joliet Catholic are on their way back: The two most decorated programs with 23 state titles between them started slowly but are rounding into form. The Caravan handled No. 10 Brother Rice, while Joliet Catholic shut down previously unbeaten St. Patrick.
2. Wheaton Warrenville South delivers in big games: Naperville Central had climbed into the upper tier of the Du Page Valley until a 45-7 drubbing by the Tigers.
3. Lincoln-Way East and Bolingbrook clearly are the best in the SouthWest Suburban Blue: Barring any upsets, both will be undefeated heading into their Oct. 10 showdown in Bolingbrook. Lincoln-Way quarterback Spencer Stanek could be the difference.
4. In the Central Suburban South, if only we could fast-forward to Oct. 10: That’s when Maine South (5-0) will visit Glenbrook South (5-0) in what appears to be the only competitive game for these two powers.
5. Some 5-0 teams are flying under the radar: Keep an eye on Crystal Lake Central, Huntley, Lemont, Rich East, Vernon Hills, Grant, Antioch and Montini.
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In the Web edition
*Week 5 game coverage, photo galleries and Comcast SportsNet video highlights at chicagotribune.com/prepsplus
