I8FA aka 8man Previews

[Patrick Devitt]

I know this is a board for the larger schools but figured I'd share my 8man previews with the community here. I think I wrote up all but three of the schools participating as they never got back to me, those being Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland, Oblong, and Palestine-Hutsonville but enjoy reading!

Note that Harvest-Westminster already cancelled their season and Schlarman Academy from Danville is back playing some games this fall.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Bushnell-Prairie City Spartans
Bushnell, IL

Enrollment:
160

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Jacob Schisler

2025 Results:
1-8 Overall

Returning Starters:
7 on Offense, 6 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Jonovan Harrell RB/DB Jr (1437 all purpose yards, 20 TDs)
Miles Strode OL So
Andre Watts DL Sr
Dylan King DE Jr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Zaedin Hart Fr
Patrick Raines Fr

2026 Outlook
Its been tough sledding for the Bushnell-Prairie City Spartans program the past few years, but there is reason to believe the trajectory of the program is on the upswing. I saw the Spartans play twice last season and the kid that stood out to me was running back Jonovan Harrell! He showed elusiveness and breakaway speed. I loved what I saw from him a sophomore and am expecting an big junior season as he's likely the guy that defense will be game planning for. Coach Schisler says the team will be young again, starting many sophs and juniors, but these kids have been putting in the work and have bought in to getting BPC Spartan football back to being a competitive opponent week in and week out. With the new breakdown of the I8FA and if the Spartans have made some improvements this offseason they could be in the mix in the I8FA Central West division.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

West Carroll Thunder
Mount Carroll, IL

Enrollment:
246

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Abelardo Sustaita

2025 Results:
8-3 Overall, Lost I8FA Quaterfinals to South Fork 38-14

Returning Starters:
2 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Aden Buchholz RB/LB Sr
Cohen Good FB/DE
Xander Uriales NT
Ayden Lahre DE Sr
Jacoby Cropper TE/LB Sr
Collin Handel TE/C Jr
Jack McIntyre RB Jr
Brody Smith QB So
Garrett Carter RB/LB So
Lucas Tautz TE/LB So
Marckez Baragan RB So

2026 Outlook:
A second consecutive 8-3 record under Coach Sustaita have increased expectations in Mount Carroll this fall. The Thunder have to replace some huge pieces in Rayce Mix, Ryker Budimlija, Roger Laborn, and Winter Harrington, but do return star RB/LB Aden Buchholz. Coach Sustaita says he expects his team to be explosive on offense and defense. The goals in West Carroll stay the same, a playoff appearance, a deeper run, and a state title appearance!

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Pawnee Indians
Pawnee, IL

Enrollment:
326
Coop between Pawnee and Lincolnwood

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Josh Talley

2025 Results:
9-2 Overall, Lost I8FA Quaterfinals to Amboy 64-6

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 7 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Ty Lederbrand QB Jr
Caleb White RB Jr
Torsten Polistina WR Jr
Jaxon Law TE Sr
Will Athey OL/DL Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Luke Wangen RB/LB So
Mason Jugan LB So

2026 Outlook:
Things haven't skipped a beat since Head Coach Josh Talley took over the program as the Indians have posted a record of 20-3 the past two seasons. Coach Talley says this is the best offseason they've had in his tenure at Pawnee. The Seniors have established the teams number one goal of "Win The Day" and that mindset has shaped the way they've attacked the summer. Pawnee does have to replace an all time player in Caden Ward, but they expect the kids they have back to step up, produce, and continue the tradition of Pawnee Indian Football! Look for the Indians to be a threat for the I8FA title.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Peoria Heights Patriots
Peoria Heights, IL

Enrollment:
180

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Jake Smith

2025 Results:
1-8 Overall

Returning Starters:
5 on Offense, 5 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Eathan Brooks FB/DE Jr
Crew Shaver OG/DT Sr
Yshmael Burton ATH Sr
Maddix Callister ATH Jr

2026 Outlook:
Peoria Heights will have a new man in charge this fall as Jake Smith takes over the program. Its been a very tough stretch for the Patriots as they're currently on a playoff drought which stretches back to 2015. Coach Smith and his staff have begun to change the culture and identity of the program to get them back to a competitive level. Look for big things out of Brooks, Burton, and Callister in 2026 for Peoria Heights.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

West Central Heat
Biggsville, IL

Enrollment:
220

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Jason Kirby

2025 Results:
7-3 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to West Carroll 42-8

Returning Starters:
6 on Offense, 7 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Colt Spence
Graham Kelly
Aiden Garner
Cooper Gibb

Underclassmen to Watch:
Gage Troutman
John Garner

2026 Outlook:
The Heat look to build on a strong 2025 campaign with an even better season in 2026. Coach Kirby, entering year 11 at West Central, believes his kids have worked hard all offseason and that will pay off in spade this fall. The Heat will be young this fall as its likely that six of the eight starters will be underclassmen. Graham Kelly was a star last year for West Central and will be a massive piece on offense and defense, as will Colt Spence, Aiden Garner, and Cooper Gibb. Coach Kirby mentioned he likes what he has seen from underclassmen Gage Troutman and John Garner and says both will contribute in 2026. The Heat will be one of the teams to beat in the I8FA Central West division and should be a playoff team.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Milford-Cissna Park Bearcats
Milford, IL

Enrollment:
245
Coop between Milford and Cissna Park

Conference:
I8FA Central East

Head Coach:
Clint Schwartz

2025 Results:
6-4 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to Amboy 68-8

Returning Starters:
6 on Offense, 6 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Mario Martinez RB/LB Sr
Lucas Summers TE/LB Jr
Skylar Estay RB/WR/DB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Maddox Muehling WR So
Jackson Lavicka LB So

2026 Outlook:
The Bearcats made the I8FA playoffs in 2025 but ran into the eventual champions (Amboy) in round 1. 2026 looks promising for MCP as they bring back six starters on both sides of the ball. Coach Schwartz says the offense will be led by Skylar Estay, a 4 year starter, and Mario Martinez, who has been starting since the middle of his sophmore year. Defensively the Bearcats will be led by Lucas Summers, who set the MCP single season record for total tackles with 138 in 2025. Milford-Cissna Park wants to be able to establish a good running game and control the line of scrimmage, which they believe is the key to their success in 2026. The I8FA Central East should see MCP fighting for the top spot.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

South Fork Ponies
Kincaid, IL

Enrollment:
243
Coop between South Fork, Edinburg, and Morrisonville

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Zach Hanlon

2025 Results:
11-1 Overall, Lost I8FA Semifinal to Polo 38-0

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Stephon Shanks RB Jr
Hudsen Hout WR/TE Jr
Carter Foli MLB Jr
Colton Puccetti QB Jr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Gentry Dunkirk OL So
Nolan Mulvaney ATH Fr

2026 Outlook:
The Ponies are fresh off the best season in school history as the 2025 team went 11-1 and advanced all the way to the I8FA Semifinals. Gone are 10 seniors and superstar George Bailey, but Coach Hanlon feels that this group has been adamant that even with those players graduating they are not taking a step back in 2026. The offense will be more balanced this fall as QB Colton Puccetti returns under center. He will have Hudson Hout and newcomer Cody Ganther to throw too, while Stephon Shanks will take over as the lead running back. Carter Foli will lead the way defensively for South Fork this season. Goals for South Fork remain high as they no longer just want to make the playoffs, they want to make deep playoff runs the norm.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Meridian Hawks
Macon, IL

Enrollment:
261

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Kyle Sparks

2025 Results:
4-6 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to Milledgeville 66-16

Returning Starters:
6 on Offense, 5 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Bryce Brown QB (1786 pass yds, 22 TD)
Seth Ralston WR/RB (438 rush yds, 475 rec yds)
Trenton Dowdy WR (504 rec yds, 5 TDs)
Max Hubner LB (86 tkl)

Underclassmen to Watch:
Ky Morris OL Jr

2026 Outlook:
Heading into 2025 Meridian and Head Coach Kyle Sparks made the decision to move from the 11 man game to the 8 man game. Well that move payed dividends immediately as the Hawks qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2021. Coach Sparks, entering his 5th season in charge, believes the pieces are in place to make even more positive strides in 2026. Meridian will head to the I8FA South Division this year after being in the East in 2025. They’ll face a tough schedule in I8FA South Division play and end the regular season with back to back to back reigning state champ Amboy. With 6 back on offense, 5 back on defense, plus a full year of the 8 man game under their belt I full expected a good year in Macon. Another trip to the I8FA playoffs is definitely a possibility this fall.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

St.Anne Cardinals
St.Anne, IL

Enrollment:
276
Coop between St.Anne and Donovan

Conference:
I8FA Central East

Head Coach:
Alan Rood

2025 Results:
9-2 Overall, Lost I8FA Quaterfinals to Polo 46-14

Returning Starters:
3 on Offense, 2 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Gavin Threm WR/MLB Sr
Jyimere Thomas OL/DL Sr
Mason Romein OL Sr
Damarius Lucas RB/DB Sr
Toni Lopez LB Sr
Evan Harpster LB/DB Jr
Raymond Grant OL/DL Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Trey Huffman TE/LB So

2026 Outlook:
Entering their 4th year in 8man, after not playing any kind of football since the late 1970s, Coach Alan Rood and his Cardinals will look to take things one step further (hopefully for St.Anne faithful even farther) come playoff time. Back to back I8FA Quaterfinal appearances from a program so young is quite remarkable. St.Anne will have some holes to fill as only 3 starters are back on offense and 2 on defense. However, Coach Rood really likes the 8 seniors they have for 2026 and 3 or 4 of them have vast varsity experience. Depth could be an issues, specially the lower classes, but if the Cardinals continue to be committed mentally and physically to the process of improving everyday the Cardinals will be in the mix for another shot at the I8FA playoffs.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

St.Thomas More Sabers
Champaign, IL

Enrollment:
190

Conference:
I8FA Central East

Head Coach:
Cary Matthews

2025 Results:
2-7 Overall

Returning Starters:
0 on Offense, 1 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Sam Horn QB Jr
Ryan Roesel DE Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Ashton Hill TE So

2026 Outlook:
After four straight trips to the I8FA playoffs the Sabers took a step back in 2025 going 2-7 under new Head Coach Cary Matthews. A lot is gone from the past few seasons, as St.Thomas More only returns one total starter, than being Sr DE Ryan Roesel. Coach Matthews says he is extremely excited about his incoming freshman class and says they’ll step in and contribute this fall. It might take some time and this year may be a bit of a rebuild for the Sabers, but if this freshman class is as good as advertised then St.Thomas More is one to watch out for the next few seasons.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

River Ridge Wildcats
Hanover, IL

Enrollment:
126

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Jared Berlage

2025 Results:
4-5 Overall

Returning Starters:
5 on Offense, 3 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Kaden Bauer QB
Hamish Boden RB/LB
Jackson Goldsmith RB/LB
Joey Frazier OL/DL
Brogan Grube C

Underclassmen to Watch:
Luke Holcomb WR
Russel Howard ATH
Wyatt Lehman ATH

2026 Outlook:
Year one under Jared Berlage had the River Ridge Wildcats so close to the playoffs as they finished 4-5 but missed out due to a tiebreaker. The new divisions of I8FA have done no favors for Coach Berlage as they are lumped into the I8FA North West division with Amboy, Polo, Milledgeville, West Carroll, and Orangeville! The Wildcats bring back 5 starters on offense and 3 on defense this fall. Of those starters back are star RB Hamish Boden and QB Kaden Bauer who both had terrific seasons in 2025. River Ridge wont have a lot of depth this fall and will also need some younger players to step in and complete right away. Staying healthy will be key to a good season as the schedule for 2026 is absolutely loaded.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Hiawatha Hawks
Kirkland, IL

Enrollment:
116

Conference:
I8FA North East

Head Coach:
Kenny McPeek

2025 Results:
5-5 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to Polo 36-14

Returning Starters:
5 on Offense, 3 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Tim Pruitt RB/BS Sr
Sam Gomoll OG Sr
Matthew Parish C Sr
Colby Wylde WR/DB Jr
Kamden Rasmus RB/TE/DE Jr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Mason Elm OG/LB So

2026 Outlook:
The Hawks made their 2nd playoff appearance in three years under Coach McPeek last fall finishing up 2025 with a first round playoff exit to Polo. The Hawks have some pieces back, with 5 returning starters back on offense with 3 back on defense. This fall the Hawks will emphasize on playing smart but fast. With the experience they have back look for the Hiawatha to be in contention for the I8FA North East division title and another playoff berth.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Ridgewood Spartans
Cambridge, IL

Enrollment:
220
Coop between Cambridge and AlWood

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Dawson Anderson

2025 Results:
4-5 Overall

Returning Starters:
5 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Hayden McCleary-Larson RB/LB Sr (536 rush yds, 5 TDs, 30 tkl, 1 FR, 2 INT)
Marshall Secymore OL/DL Sr
Karter Hays OL/DL Sr (28 tkl)
Byron Catour RB/LB Sr (110 rush yds, 2 TDs, 20.5 tkl)
Jaden Gray OL/DL Jr
Crew Roberson RB/DB So (386 rush yds, 5 TDs, 25 tkl, 1 INT)
Levi Hixson RB/DB So
Carson Hancock QB So (450 pass yds, 9 TDs)
Camden Galle TE/DE So
Rob Sandberg RB/LB So (62 yds, 2 TDs, 30 tkl, 1 INT)

2026 Outlook:
After just missing out on the playoffs in Dawson Anderson’s first season in charge, Ridgewood will look to get back to the playoffs this fall. The Spartans will return 5 on offense and 6 on defense, with Senior Hayden McCleary-Larson being a two way standout at RB and LB. The sophomore class is one to keep an eye on, as Roberson, Hixson, Hancock, Galle, and Sandberg will all be contributing this year, so it will be interesting to see how well that class develops over the next three seasons. Coach Anderson says the team needs to get back to doing the simple things and that will take care of the mistakes that hurt them in 2025. Look for Ridgewood to be in the mix for the I8FA Central West title and competing for one of the 16 playoff spots.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Polo Marcos
Polo, IL

Enrollment:
158

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Ted Alston

2025 Results:
11-2 Overall, Lost I8FA State Championship to Amboy 30-20

Returning Starters:
2 on Offense, 2 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Mercer Mumford
Esteban Salinas
Ethan Dewey
Eli Perez
Jordan Reed

Underclassmen to Watch:
Isaac McFalls

2026 Outlook:
The 2025 Polo Marcos returned to the I8FA Title game for the 3rd time in the short history of Illinois 8 man football but came up just short to Amboy. A very talented group of seniors is gone from that runner-up team and only 2 starters are back on offense and defense. However, the Marcos do bring back some very talented players in Mercer Mumford (I8FA All-State) an Esteban Salinas (I8FA North West All Conference LB) who will be big contributors for the Marcos in 2026. The goal for Polo is to be competitive every game per Coach Alston. The younger kids will have to step up and fill in the holes left by the talented 2025 seniors. The I8FA North West Division will give the Marcos plenty of challenges during the regular season, but Polo has never missed the I8FA playoffs since the division was created and I don’t expect that to happen in 2026.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Hope Christian Academy Eagles
Kankakee, IL

Enrollment:
60

Conference:
I8FA Central East

Head Coach:
Jeff Wood

2025 Results:
0-0 New Varsity Program in 2026

Returning Starters:
Not applicable

Players to Watch:
Jackson Wood QB/WR/LB/S Sr
Xavier Grimmett RB/LB Sr
Jayden Stewart QB/WR/LB/CB Sr
Tyler Huizinga TE/DE Sr

2026 Outlook:
Starting a program from scratch is what Jeff Wood is doing down at Hope Christian Academy. The Eagles will make their football debut at the 8 man level this fall. Coach Wood says the team will be very athletic and will need to use that to their advantage in their 1st season of football. Xavier Grimmett and Jayden Stewart are both transferring in from Bradley-Bourbonnais and should make an immediate impact dropping down from 7A football to 8man. Jackson Wood has size, speed, and athleticism that you want in a QB and will lead the Eagles offense. Everything this fall will be brand new for the Hope Christian Academy Eagles and their schedule is tough in the I8FA Central East division. Any progress and development will be a win for the first year program and getting in the win column would be a cherry on top for the Eagles.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

South Beloit Sobos
South Beloit, IL

Enrollment:
247

Conference:
I8FA North East

Head Coach:
Josh Redieske

2025 Results:
8-3 Overall, Lost I8FA Quaterfinals to Milledgeville 22-6

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Chase Herrington Sr
Skyler Redieske Jr
James Herrington Jr
Jonah Martinez Sr
Gage Pasiecznik Sr
Gabriel Najera Sr
Zane Hagstrom Jr
Jaycee Schober Jr

2026 Outlook:
One of the more underrated, but consistent programs in I8FA the South Beloit Sobos had made their 2nd consecutive playoff appearance under Coach Josh Redieske in 2025. In fact the Sobos have never missed the postseason since joining the 8man rank back in 2021. Entering year 3 under Coach Redieske, the Sobos will bring back 4 starters on both sides of the ball, but have loads of talent returning all over the roster. South Beloit looks to be the favorite in the I8FA North East division and should be headed for another playoff berth in 2026.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Cerro Gordo-Bement Broncos
Cerro Gordo, IL

Enrollment:
202
Coop between Cerro Gordo and Bement

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Chris Ridgeway

2025 Results:
0-0 No Varsity Football in 2025 (Coop with Arcola)

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Eli Corpus QB/OLB Sr
David Bates RB/OLB Jr
Jacob Henderson OL/DT Jr
Lucas Meinders RB/LB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Konner Demko WR/DB So
Oliver Parish OL/DT So
Logan Isbell RB/DE Fr

2026 Outlook:
2025 is not what you would call ideal for the Broncos of Cerro Gordo-Bement. A last minute coop agreement with Arcola salvaged a season for the 2025 seniors. Low numbers in the program have led the administration and athletics department to make the move from the 11 man game to the 8 man game. Coach Ridgeway and his Broncos are excited about the move to 8 man game and a big goal for this fall is to adjust to the new game and build excitement with the program again. The Broncos will bring back 4 starters on offense and defense in 2026 and that should help their transition. CGB will be in the tough I8FA South Division so the tests will be weekly for the Broncos. Getting the program back on its own footing is important and any success this fall will be beneficial longterm to Cerro Gordo-Bement football.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Christian Life Eagles
Rockford, IL

Enrollment:
172
Coop between Christian Life and Keith Country Day

Conference:
I8FA North East

Head Coach:
Lance Vistine

2025 Results:
2-7 Overall

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Fred Swain RB/LB
Malachi Rodriguez TE/DE
Nic Vistine WR
Colton Beard ATH/LB
Riot Cornellier OL/DT

Underclassmen to Watch:
Joey Proffitt DB

2026 Outlook:
Lance Vistine will enter his 5th season as the Eagles head coach. 2025 was a struggle, but the Christian Life squad brings back 4 starters on offense and defense this fall. Fred Swain, had an impressive junior season for the Eagles and looks to make an even bigger impact as a senior. Look for Malachi Rodriguez to have a big year on offense and defense as well. Coach Vistine says the pieces they return are talented and they will add in some new comers that are athletic and eager to contribute. A goal for the Eagles is to continue getting better each and every day, but also to put a few more W's in the win column.

Christian Life Schools
Keith Country Day School

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Blue Ridge Knights
Farmer City, IL

Enrollment:
209
Coop between Blue Ridge and DeLand-Weldon

Conference:
I8FA Central East

Head Coach:
Dave Kramer

2025 Results:
1-8 Overall

Returning Starters:
7 on Offense, 8 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Chase Ellis RB/CB Jr
Wyatt Laidley RB/LB Jr
Kamdyn Hinshaw OG/LB Sr
Shawn Christie C/DL Sr
Preston Giles QB/CB Jr
Trevor Gembecki OG/DE Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Kymond Bischoff QB/LB Fr

2026 Outlook:
After 5 seasons with Blue Ridge Matt Schubert departed and in steps David Kramer to take over the Knights program. 2025 was a difficult one in Farmer City as the Knights went 1-8. Coach Kramer is looking to generate excitement within the program, which brings back 7 starters on offense and 8 on defense. Back are the Knights leading rusher in Chase Ellis and their leading tackler in Wyatt Laidley, both will play massive roles this fall. Coach Kramer says this has the opportunity to be a breakout season as many of the athletes on the team have two years of varsity experience. The goal for Blue Ridge is to take it one game at a time while striving for excellence on each and every play. Coach Kramer believes this season this has the makings of an exciting season with a great deal of success.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Unity Christian
Decatur, IL

Enrollment:
290
Coop between Unity Christian and Mt.Pulaski

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Matt Schubert

2025 Results:
4-5 Overall

Returning Starters:
6 on Offense, 8 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Will Marley DE Sr
Noah Hynds WR Sr
Ethan Stoddard OL Sr
Hayden Morris OL Sr
Austin Kretzinger DB Sr
Danny Alworth RB Jr
Avery Smith LB Sr
Peyton Abner RB Sr
Jaice Skeen OL Jr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Dawson Caldwell So
Sam Marley So

2026 Outlook:
After spending his entire coaching career at Blue Ridge Matt Schubert takes on a new challenge at Unity Christian. The Lions just missed out on the I8FA playoffs going 4-5 last year. Coach Schubert has a lot coming back with 6 starters back on offense and 8 back on defense. Their mission is to be the most physical team in the field. A big focus this fall will be on fundamentals and well as continuing to build upon the culture started by former Coach Jordan Hopman. Coach Schubert says the players have bought in to the new standards and identify. The expectation is that the Lions will be in contention for a playoff berth and with the experience they bring back in 2026 its absolutely possible.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Galva Wildcats
Galva, IL

Enrollment:
116

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Zach Anderson

2025 Results:
5-5 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to South Fork 52-6

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
MJ Louck QB/RB/LB Sr
Donovyn Sarver FB/LB So
Ben Burris OL/DL Jr
Peyton Jenkins TE/LB So

2026 Outlook:
If someone told you before 2025 that the Galva Wildcats were playoff bound they probably would have thought you were crazy. Well enter Zach Anderson for his first year in Galva and the Wildcats, who were another one of the best stories of 2025, made the playoffs for the first time since 1994! Galva ended a 31 year playoff drought, which ultimately ended in a loss to South Fork, but the kids and Coach Anderson are hungry for more headed into 2026. Galva brings back 4 starters on offense and defense this fall. The Wildcats will be led by MJ Louck, Donovyn Sarver, Ben Burris, and Peyton Jenkins. Louck is poised for a massive senior season, while Sarver and Jenkins both made massive impacts as freshmen (two to watch for the future). This is no longer the Galva football of the past, this is a new era of Wildcats football. Year 2 under Coach Anderson is looking to be even better. The kids are hungry and want to build off the success of 2025. The I8FA Central West Division title is in play for Galva this fall and hopefully a second consecutive playoff appearance is in store as well.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Amboy Clippers
Amboy, IL

Enrollment:
270
Coop between Amboy, LaMoille, and Ohio

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Scott Payne

2025 Results:
11-1 Overall, Won I8FA State Championship over Polo 30-20

Returning Starters:
6 on Offense, 6 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Jose Lopez RB/LB Sr
Tanner Welch QB Sr
Caden Heath RB/LB Sr
Evan Flanagan TE/DE Sr
Trevor Stenzel OL/DL Sr
Colt McCoy RB/DB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Ian Hassler OL/DL So

2026 Outlook:
Dynasty is what has been built in the 8man ranks over in Amboy. Back to back to back I8FA State Championships under Head Coach Scott Payne have made the Clippers into the face of 8man football in Illinois. Dont forget they were runners-up in 2022 losing a close one 44-36 to West Central. Entering his sixth season in charge Coach Payne has 6 starters back on offense and defense for 2026. Star running back Jose Lopez is back as is Caiden Heath. Coach Payne says the senior leadership has been evident with weight room attendance, but also in how they've been helping the underclassmen on the practice field and in the weight room. As long as the Clippers stay healthy a long run in the I8FA playoffs is likely and they're the favorite for the title and 4 peat in 2026.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Ashton-Franklin Center Raiders
Ashton, IL

Enrollment:
118

Conference:
I8FA North East

Head Coach:
Josh Stone

2025 Results:
2-7 Overall

Returning Starters:
3 on Offense, 3 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Kyler Willstead QB/LB Sr
Naim Mimini RB/LB Sr
Noah Lester TE/DE Sr
Adrian Losoya WR/CB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Landin Hudson WR/CB So

2026 Outlook:
Josh Stone will enter season two as the head coach of Ashton-Franklin Center with a good, young core that has had a tremendous off season. The Raiders graduated a a large senior class and will be young this fall with only 3 starters back on offense and defense. Coach Stone is excited about the direction of the program and says they're focused on building a football team that plays with toughness, discipline, and effort ever single Friday night. The Raider goals are simple compete for four quarters, improve every week, and continue to build a strong lasting culture. If things go well and the young kids develop on the fly Ashton-Franklin Center could challenge in the I8FA North East division and make a run at the playoffs.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

West Prairie-Southeastern Cyclones
Colchester, IL

Enrollment:
259
Coop between West Prairie and Southeastern

Conference:
I8FA Central West

Head Coach:
Mark Benson

2025 Results:
1-8 Overall

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Keith Szabo FB
Brysen Tanner RB
Eli DeCounter TE
Sam Day LB

Underclassmen to Watch:
Gannon Shipman
Hayden Wilcox

2026 Outlook:
After five seasons in charge and two playoff appearances John McCormick is no longer in charge of the Cyclones. In steps Mark Benson to take over West Prairie-Southeastern after their 1-8 mark in 2025. The Cyclones will bring back 4 starters on offense and defense. Gone are Tristan Hester and Austin Nelson, but West Prairie-Southeastern does bring back some talented underclassman and Szabo and Tanner will be big pieces on offense. Coach Benson says there is a lot of work to do as there are inherent changes brought about when a new staff takes over. Team goals this fall are to grow the Cyclones confidence and instill a greater work ethic. The staff wants to see weekly incremental improvements that will put them in a solid position come November.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Alden-Hebron Giants
Hebron, IL

Enrollment:
130
Coop between Alden-Hebron and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart

Conference:
I8FA North East

Head Coach:
John Lalor

2025 Results:
7-3 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to South Beloit 37-6

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 5 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Caleb Linneman RB/S Jr
Jack Stewart RB/TE/LB Jr
Cohl Armbrust RB/LB So

Underclassmen to Watch:
Kyle Linneman QB/TE
Nic Campa

2026 Outlook:
In his 2nd stint in charge of the Giants, Head Coach John Lalor has taken the Giants to back to back playoff appearances. Alden-Hebron will look to make it three postseason trips in three seasons this fall. The Giants will again be young this fall but do bring back 4 starters on offense and 5 on defense. Getting Caleb Linneman back fully healthy will be a huge boost for the Giants and teaming up with Jack Stewart and Cohl Armbrust should form a formidable trio for the Alden-Hebron backfield. Staying healthy will be crucial per Coach Lalor, but they Giants have a bit more depth this fall. Look for them to be in the race for thr I8FA North East division and another playoff berth.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Martinsville Bluestreaks
Martinsville, IL

Enrollment:
87

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Josh Stowers

2025 Results:
3-6 Overall

Returning Starters:
4 on Offense, 5 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Gabe Griffin RB/DE Sr (1400 rush yds)
Caden Wilhoit OL/DL Sr
Seth Svika RB/LB Sr
Wyatt Washburn RB/DE Jr
Jaxson Miller QB/DB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Kayden Jenkins TE/DE/DB So

2026 Outlook:
Josh Stowers is the new man in charge of the Martinsville Bluestreaks headed into 2026. He is looking to get his young squad back into the playoffs after a missing out in 2025 after going 3-6. I saw Martinsville play 2 or 3 times last fall and those kids were tough and athletic, they thrived on physicality. The Bluestreaks will bring back 4 starters on offense and 5 on defense this fall. Coach Stowers says they'll be young (only 7 upperclassmen) but they have experience at key positions and those underclassmen will gain tremendous experience. Coach Stowers notes they have five linemen (4 sophs/1 freshman) checking in at over 250 lbs. The team is made up of many "swiss army knives" as in kids that can play multiple positions and Coach Stowers believes that will give them a leg up in play calling while also keeping the kids fresh. The main goal is to build the young men to lead their school and eventually their homes and community. If we become better men who want to serve others, make those around us better, and be great teammates, which will turn into on the field success. Look for Martinsville to be in the mix for playoff contention in the I8FA.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Orangeville Broncos
Orangeville, IL

Enrollment:
93

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Bill Shepard

2025 Results:
3-6 Overall

Returning Starters:
7 on Offense, 7 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Hayden Schoefield RB/DB Sr
Oskar Bissell RB/DB Sr
Elwyn Thomm RB/LB Sr
Nathan Briggs OL/DL Sr
Brennan Endsley OL/DL Sr
Brock Kamprood QB/LB Sr
Ethan Thompson WR/DB Sr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Parker Rodenbaugh TE/DE Jr
Ian Smith WR/DB So

2026 Outlook:
After a 3-6 season in 2025 former head coach Todd Kramer stepped away after one year in charge. Fast forward to 2026 and Bill Shepard takes over as the Broncos new head football coach and he will return a lot of pieces this fall, with 7 back on offense and defense. Back for his senior season is superstar running back Hayden Schoefield, who battled injuries all of last fall, and still put up incredible numbers. Hayden is one of the best running backs in I8FA history and is closing in on the all time record of 6,103 yards (current record held by Kaiden Droste).Coach Shepard says the returning kids are very athletic and quick. If the kids gel and stay healthy they can compete this fall. The goal in Orangeville is to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2023.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Milledgeville Missiles
Milledgeville, IL

Enrollment:
102

Conference:
I8FA North West

Head Coach:
Jason Wroble

2025 Results:
11-1 Overall, Lost I8FA Semifinal to Amboy 18-8

Returning Starters:
2 on Offense, 2 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Kyson Francis QB/DB Sr
Ian Rayhorn C/DL Sr
Parker Saunders TE/DB Sr
Wyatt Ebersole RB/LB Jr

Underclassmen to Watch:
Jaxon Miller OL/DL So
Colton Stiles OL/DL So
Max Remmers Fr
Bramley Nye Fr
Kamden Francis Fr
Cashten Johnson Fr

2026 Outlook:
Season number 17 under Head Coach Jason Wroble saw his Missiles roll off 11 straight wins before falling to eventual champion Amboy in the I8FA Semifinals. 2026 will be about change in Milledgeville as the team has to replace a generational class of seniors that compiled a record of 31-5 over the last three seasons. Milledgeville returns only 2 starters on offense and defense, but they're two great players in Jr QB Kyson Francis and Jr OL/DL Ian Rayhorn. Francis is a special talent who is a dynamic athlete who is quickly moving up the all time passing list in I8FA history. Coach Wroble says the team will be young and has growth and development that will need to take place throughout the season, but the incoming freshman class has loads of potential. Familiar names such as Bramley Nye, Kamden Francis, and Cashten Johnson will all follow in their older siblings footsteps. Keep an eye on Max Remmers who could be tops of that freshman class.

 

[Patrick Devitt]

Metro-East Lutheran Knights
Edwardsville, IL

Enrollment:
230

Conference:
I8FA South

Head Coach:
Mike Koch

2025 Results:
7-3 Overall, Lost I8FA 1st Rd to St.Anne 39-20

Returning Starters:
5 on Offense, 4 on Defense

Players to Watch:
Issak Broekemeier WR/LB/S
Ben Schilbe QB/WR/S
Tyler Calvert TE/LB
Caleb Dixon OL/DL
Lee Watson RB/LB
Aiden McClew OL/LB

Underclassmen to Watch:
Shane Stewart OL/DL
Logan Adolph RB/WR/S
Luke Spellbring QB/S
Marty Ballantyne RB/WR/LB

2026 Outlook:
Since taking over Mike Koch has slowly been building up the Knights program and 2025 was the best one under his tutelage. The Knights were 7-3, made the I8FA playoffs for the 2nd consecutive season, but fell short in the opening round to St.Anne. Back for Metro-East Lutheran will be 5 starters on offense and 4 on defense. 12 seniors graduated, but a large incoming class has given them 10 freshmen for the program. Coach Koch said the summer was great as the kids built up their strength and speed, while the underclassmen got on the same page as those kids will have to step into roles and make big contributions. Goals for the Knights include winning their rivalry game, being the I8FA South Division title winner, and ultimately being state champs. Those goals are foundational goals of the program and will never change. Coach Koch says they've made great strides to change the culture at Metro-East Lutheran to be a football school. Look for the Knights to get back to the playoffs for a 3rd consecutive seasons and get over that first round hump this fall.

 

[4Afan]

Good stuff!