After just missing the ultimate prize twice, former Yorkville star Cale Reeder and South Dakota State got it done on Sunday, beating rival North Dakota State 45-21 in the Football Championship Subdivision final for the school's first national title. 'Like a dream.'

Sam Taviani graduated with an accounting degree in May and had a job lined up, but also had a year of eligibility left at North Central and unfinished business. The Downers Grove North alum realized it this season, helping lead the Cardinals to their second national title.

Ex-Oswego East star Antwain Walker stepped away from football for nearly two full seasons to work his way through mental health. He made a spectacular return this fall, becoming an All-American cornerback at North Central and winning a national title this past Friday.