Playoff WRs Taking Over When It Matters Most

Eric Bergman November 18, 2025 @ 09:21 PM

Some receivers step up in the regular season. Others save their best for November. These wideouts have been difference-makers in the playoffs, delivering explosive plays, game-changing momentum, and the kind of production that keeps entire offenses humming deep into the bracket.   Zach Smith – Maroa-Forsyth Smith has been nearly unstoppable this postseason. Defenses know the ball is coming his way, and it simply doesn't matter. With over 1,280 yards and 21 touchdowns, he's the definition of a volume-plus-explosive threat. His ability to turn routine catches into chunk plays has been a separator, especially with his knack for winning vertically when Maroa-Forsyth needs a spark.   Marquan Brewster – Fremd Brewster has been one of the most consistent high-volume receivers in Illinois. Nearly 1,200 yards in a run to the quarterfinals says everything about how vital he is to Fremd's offense. He's a true chain-mover with yards-after-catch juice, turning short throws into long gains. Whenever Fremd needs a big answer, Brewster is the guy who delivers it.   [player_tooltip player_id='1585213' first='Brett' last='Berggren'] – Batavia Batavia's playoff push keeps leaning on Berggren's reliability and contested-catch strength. He plays like a safety blanket who can also threaten defenses downfield. His ability to box out defensive backs and win 50/50 balls has been massive in tight postseason moments. When Batavia's offense needs stability, Berggren gives them exactly that.   Tristan Stanton – Rochester Stanton has emerged as Rochester's home-run hitter. With a yards-per-catch number over 21 yards, he's the vertical weapon that stretches defenses and punishes single coverage. Even on limited touches, he changes field position instantly. When Rochester wants to flip momentum, Stanton is often the one breaking the game open.   [player_tooltip player_id='1472518' first='Tre' last='Hoggard'] – Tolono Unity Hoggard has been one of the most productive two-way threats in small-school football this fall, and his postseason play has matched that level. With 1,053 yards and 14 touchdowns, he's the engine of Unity's passing game. Whether it's high-pointing balls or running away from defenders, he brings the type of steady explosiveness that teams lean on to survive November.

Some receivers step up in the regular season. Others save their best for November. These wideouts have been difference-makers in the playoffs, delivering explosive plays, game-changing momentum, and the kind of production that keeps entire offenses humming deep into the bracket.