BREAKING: Mount Carmel has clinched its 17th state title after a thrilling 20-3 victory over Oswego in the Class 8A championship held at Huskie Stadium on December 3, 2025. Junior defensive back Cullen Winters made a game-changing play by blocking a punt that was returned for a touchdown, solidifying the Caravan’s dominance.
The game unfolded dramatically as Winters, recalling a previous attempt, executed a perfect block early in the third quarter. “I saw the chance at a block was there, so I did it again and I got it,” Winters stated confidently. This pivotal moment energized his team and shifted the momentum decisively in Mount Carmel’s favor.
Senior quarterback Emmett Dowling contributed significantly, scoring both a rushing and passing touchdown, helping Mount Carmel to their fourth consecutive state title and their first in the 8A division during this impressive streak.
As temperatures dipped, the Caravan’s offense struggled against a strong Oswego defense. However, special teams set the stage for their initial scores, with senior punter Dean Kemph pinning Oswego deep in their territory, leading to Dowling’s touchdown run and a narrow 6-3 lead at halftime.
“We practice special teams a ton during the week,” Kemph emphasized. “We were just in the right place at the right time.”
After leveraging their defense to halt Oswego’s first drive of the second half, Winters’ block created an immediate scoring opportunity. His teammate, Gavin Conjar, who returned the blocked kick for a touchdown, expressed the thrill of the moment, saying, “There’s no greater feeling.”
Mount Carmel’s defense was relentless, allowing only three first downs throughout the game, with junior linebacker Roman Igwebuike adding an interception. The Caravan limited Oswego to just 143 yards of offense and a mere 2.8 yards per play.
Winters, who missed his entire sophomore season due to a back injury, reflected on his journey: “Coming into the season, I wasn’t sure if I was going to play that much. By the end, I was in all the time and making plays.” His determination and hard work paid off, as he was pivotal in this championship game.
As Oswego faced a first-and-goal from the 6-yard line late in the third quarter, Mount Carmel’s defense, led by Winters and Conjar, forced four consecutive incomplete passes, showcasing their dominance. Dowling later sealed the game with a touchdown pass to sophomore wide receiver Marshaun Thornton.
Mount Carmel’s coach, Jordan Lynch, praised the team’s legacy and the deep family connections among players, highlighting the significance of this title win. “We have a lot of legacy kids, players whose fathers played here or their brothers,” he noted.
Reflecting on his own family ties, Winters said, “My two brothers played here two and three years ago and they were part of the title teams. After having to watch all the guys last year, this is a great feeling being part of this legacy.”
This championship victory marks a historic achievement for Mount Carmel, further establishing their reputation in Illinois high school football. Fans and players alike are celebrating a moment that adds another chapter to their storied legacy.
As the dust settles, Mount Carmel looks forward to building on this success, with eyes set on future championships and continuing their winning tradition.