A rivalry game for an appearance in the State Championship next week.

Monticello will play host to rival Tolono Unity Saturday for a chance to play in the Class 3A state championship game next Friday in Normal on the campus of Illinois State University.

The Sages had to survive a Benton comeback and overtime two-point conversion for the win in last week's 3A quarterfinal in Monticello. Coach Cully Welter says there were some moments in the 27-26 win that could have derailed his team but with 18 seniors, they stayed the course and made plays when they had to.

Some would say Monticello is playing its best football of the season, particularly offensively. Coach Welter would say Unity is playing its best football of the season as well.

Monticello lost 42-28 at Unity in week nine action. The Sages had some untimely turnovers and allowed some big plays that allowed Unity to start fast and maintain its momentum. Coach Welter knows they have to clean those things up to have a chance Saturday.

Because of the familiarity with Hall of Fame Coach Scott Hamilton and the Unity Rockets, did Coach Welter go to the film? 

Game time is 2 pm Saturday afternoon in Monticello. 

Hear all the action, starting with a 1:45 pregame on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com. 

Football semifinal matchups

Class 1A

 Lena-Winslow (12-0) at LeRoy (12-0) Sat. 2:00 pm

Class 2A

Maroa-Forsyth (11-1) at Johnston City (11-1) Sat. 3:30 pm

Class 4A

Mt. Zion (9-3) at Normal U-High (10-2) Sat. 7:00 pm