Railers Close Out Football Season Against Chatham

[October 21, 2016]  By Benjamin Yount

LINCOLN – The Chatham Glenwood Titans are playing for a playoff spot Friday night. The Lincoln Railsplitters are playing for the love of the game. Or perhaps a spot on next year's team.

Head Coach Matt Silkowski said the X's and O's of Friday's final match-up of the 2016 season are relatively simple.

“Chatham doesn't run anything we haven't seen from our opponents already this season,” Silkowski said after Thursday's final practice of the season. “We're going to focus on taking care of the little things and try and end the season on a high note.”

Lincoln notched its highest note two weeks ago with its first victory in four years.

Silkowski said that actually helps with the mindset heading into Friday night's final game.

Because as much as the contest is between these two teams, Silkowski said he and the coaches are casting an eye toward next year as well.

“If it gets to that point tonight, where we have a running clock, you'll definitely see the young guys come out a play,” Silkowski added. “It's going to be a lot of sophomores who've been with us all year. We want to get them a chance to see the varsity game.”

But Friday night's game is a bit more than full speed practice for Chatham.

The Titans are on the cusp of the playoffs at 5-3. A sixth win will guarantee Chatham a spot in the playoffs.

The Central State Eight could have six of its ten teams make the postseason this year.

Sacred Heart Griffin, Rochester, and Decatur MacArthur have already clinched a playoff spot.

Chatham and Jacksonville could both clinch a spot Friday night.

This is Lincoln's final football game in the Central State Eight, it's the school's final year in the conference.

Silkowski said he hopes fans, parents, and students see some hope for next year's entrance into the smaller and more balance Apollo Conference.

“I hope (this year's team) gave Railer Nation a little light. To see this is headed in the right direction,” Silkowski said. “Just keep with us, keep believing, and I think it's all going to pay off sooner than later.”

Lincoln High School travels to Chatham Glenwood Friday night, kick off is at 7 p.m. at Chatahm High School.

[© 2016 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved.]

Copyright 2016 Reuters. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.