Bloomington, IL – A bold new proposal before the Illinois High School Association could expand the state’s football playoffs from 256 to 384 teams, eliminating the long-standing “five wins to qualify” rule and fundamentally changing postseason football in Illinois.
Proposal 19, backed by Monticello Principal Travis Courson and multiple conferences, would restructure the playoff system to include 48 teams per class across eight divisions. The top-seeded teams would receive first-round byes, while the postseason would begin one week earlier in the fall.
Supporters say the change promotes fairer access and stability, giving more programs and players the chance to experience playoff football while reducing the pressure for schools to realign conferences. The IHSA also expects stronger community turnout and increased gate revenue from the expanded format.
Critics caution the plan could lengthen seasons and add travel costs, but many coaches argue it aligns football with other IHSA sports where all teams have postseason opportunities.
If approved this December, the expanded system would debut in the 2026–2027 season, marking the largest playoff expansion in Illinois football history.
