Saturday’s Class 7A state quarterfinal against Downers Grove North, Batavia reverted to a run-heavy strategy, relying on Whitwell to secure a 17-7 victory. Whitwell ran for 157 yards and a 1-yard touchdown on 40 carries, leading the Bulldogs (11-1) to the state semifinals against Lincoln-Way Central (9-3).

Vander Luitgaren contributed a 16-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Brown, and junior kicker Caleb Peters added a 21-yard field goal. Batavia’s defense was dominant, holding Downers Grove North (10-2) to 154 yards of offense and only 22 rushing yards. The Trojans’ sole score came from Oliver Thulin’s 26-yard interception return.

Batavia established control early with a 10-play, 60-yard drive ending in Whitwell’s touchdown. Another lengthy 15-play, 91-yard drive concluded with Brown’s TD catch. Despite an interception return by Downers Grove North, Batavia’s defense, led by all-state safety Chase Osborne, stifled further attempts.

Key defensive plays included Jake Feller’s interception, Osborne’s tackle for a loss on a screen pass, and a blocked field goal by Feller and Gavin Pecor. Whitwell’s efforts were crucial in the closing drives, ensuring the Bulldogs maintained possession and sealed the win.