Northern Lake County Conference Football Preview: Key Teams and Players

URGENT UPDATE: The 2025 Northern Lake County Conference (NLCC) football season is set to kick off, with teams gearing up for a competitive year. As anticipation builds, key players and coaches are poised to make their mark.

The Antioch Sequoits, co-champions last year with a record of 8-3, will look to defend their title. Coach Brian Glashagel highlighted the strength of his returning players, including star quarterback Colin Arquilla, who passed for 794 yards and scored a total of 15 touchdowns last season. The Sequoits are bolstered by a solid defensive lineup, showcasing seniors like Owen Shea and Henry Lubkeman.

Meanwhile, the Grant Bulldogs aim to improve on their 6-4 record, thanks to a seasoned roster filled with three-year starters. Coach Tim Norwood remarked, “We feel we will be more physical and faster on defense.” Key players such as quarterback Matthew Gipson, who threw for 2,145 yards last season, and running back Tyler Zdon, who rushed for 1,432 yards, will be crucial to their success.

The Wauconda Bulldogs, also co-champions with a record of 8-3, are looking to maintain their championship momentum. Coach Chris Prostka noted the depth of their senior class, including standout players like Jackson Rudolph, who had 1,309 rushing yards last season. Wauconda’s experience is expected to play a vital role as they face challenging matchups against Antioch and Grant later in the season.

The Grayslake Central Rams are striving for a breakout season after finishing 4-5 last year. With six starters returning on both offense and defense, Coach Brent Pearlman expressed optimism, saying, “Our best chance of reaching our full potential is to be unified.” Players like Sam Ullrich and Eli Gillette are key returnees to watch.

The Grayslake North Knights are also in the mix, having finished with a 7-3 record last year. Coach Brian Johnson emphasized the team’s multidimensional offense, focusing on running back-heavy strategies. All-conference player Eli Woyat is expected to be a significant contributor alongside returning stars.

The Lakes Eagles and North Chicago Warhawks are looking to improve from their past seasons, with new strategies and player developments that could shake up the standings. Lakes, under Coach Jason Ellerman, hopes to leverage their returning all-conference players for a stronger performance. North Chicago’s Coach Wilton Hill is focused on harnessing team speed and discipline to compete in a challenging conference.

Lastly, the Round Lake Panthers are under new leadership with Coach Randi Dey, aiming to end a 30-game losing streak. Dey is optimistic about his team’s speed and balance, striving to turn the program around.

As the countdown to the first game begins, all eyes are on these teams and players. The competition promises to be fierce, and updates on game results and player performances will be key in the coming weeks. Fans can expect thrilling matchups as the NLCC teams vie for supremacy.

Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!