Whether it’s a new coach, a new program or a new playoff format, the 2026 prep football season brings plenty of change to the Kankakee area. As the season begins with the start of practice Wednesday, here are a handful of storylines to keep an eye on this season. Wilmington celebrates a TD against Maroa-Forsyth in last year's Class 2A State football finals at Hancock Stadium at ISU. (Mason Schweizer)New playoff format debutsThe biggest statewide football news for 2026 is undoubtedly an expanded playoff format that will allow an extra 128 teams, 16 teams in each of the eight classes. Eight of the 13 Kankakee area 11-Man teams made the postseason last year, and three more would have under the new format.