Several key skill players and a sizable junior class hope to lift Richwoods back into the playoffs.

Tradition-rich Tri-Valley is bound for another big year with a team built around strong bonds and good depth.

Heyworth brings back a strong amoung of experience from a team that broke a playoff drought in 2025.

With nearly 20 key returners from last year's Class 2A state semifinal team, the sky is the limit for El Paso-Gridley football.

Normal U-High boasts lots of returning experience and many hard workers that look to vault the Pioneers back to the top of the Central State Eight.

Normal West looks to be in Big 12 title contention with 25 seniors on the roster and many key contributors from last season.

BCC has talent in all different corners of the field and looks to remain a small-school powerhouse.

Dee-Mack boasts large numbers and a strong line, two things needed to compete in the Class 1A postseason.

Dunlap has many big shoes to fill, but looks to improve each week as the season goes along.

Several big returners and a heap of motivation give Limestone upside heading into head coach Cory Bielema's second season.

East Peoria's culture and strength have taken big strides heading into the third year of the Sam Durley era.

Washington graduated a big senior class but it doesn't change the mentality or goals of the 3-time defending Mid-Illini champs.

PND doesn't have a large roster, but brings size and toughness at every position while looking to continue its playoff streak.

Eureka football returns many players who were forced into starting roles last season with hopes of bouncing back in 2026.

Morton is eyeing another strong campaign with Illinois commit Soren Fifer on the line and plenty of skill position players back.

Running backs Myles Alger and Logan Estes, plus several key linemen look to lead Elmwood/Brimfield back into the playoffs.

Metamora has a strong line and plenty of new playmakers ready to make an impact and continue being a force in the Mid-Illini.

Quarterback Carson Noy leads a Farmington team that looks to replenish many starters and continue its winning tradition.

Morton offensive lineman Soren Fifer made his college commitment to Illinois on Thursday.

11 familiar Central Illinois football standouts will compete for an FCS title with Illinois State on Monday.