Harlem could not be stopped on the ground and ended its playoff losing streak at nine games with a 64-39 victory over Crystal Lake South. Gators quarterback Justin Kowalak went down firing with 200-plus passing yards in the second half.

Northwest Herald senior sports reporter Joe Stevenson has live coverage from Saturday’s Crystal Lake South vs. Harlem football game here

Here are preview capsules for the eight first-round playoff games involving Northwest Herald teams this weekend.

The offensive numbers are considerably up this season in the Fox Valley Conference, as teams combined scores are a touchdown higher per game than in any of the previous four full seasons. The question is if FVC teams have enough defense to stop opponents now in the postseason, or will they have to just outscore teams?

Here are the first-round matchups for each Northwest Herald area team. Dates and times will be updated when confirmed.

Needing a win to make the playoffs, Crystal Lake South turned in an all-around solid effort Friday to take down Huntley, 28-14.

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Crystal Lake South hosted Huntley for their football game on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021 at Crystal Lake South High School in Crystal Lake.

Sports reporter Thom Gippert has live coverage from Friday night’s Huntley vs. Crystal Lake South football game here

Check out the Northwest Herald area football statistical leaders through eight games.