2026 Football Preview: Fresh-Looking Washington Squad’s Goals Remain the Same

WASHINGTON – If you look up consistency in the dictionary, you would most likely be met by a picture of the Washington Panthers football team.

The Panthers have made their way into the playoffs every year since 2007, never missing the postseason a single year. Now in their third year under head coach Todd Stevens, Washington is coming off a perfect 7-0 record in the Mid-Illini — giving the Panthers 26 straight conference wins — and a Class 5A state quarterfinal appearance. 

However, both sides of the ball will look somewhat different this season.

A loaded senior class was one of their strengths in 2025, but this time around, the Panthers won’t have the luxury of so many returning starters.