Bringing excitement to Decatur's south side is the goal is this year for Decatur Eisenhower's football program.

Fourth-year coach DaJuan Johnson admits football hasn't always been prioritized by its students, but that is starting to change, and it is his belief the program can turn a corner this year, thanks to a great summer by his athletes.

While Eisenhower finished just 1-8 last year, there were a couple of football games the Panthers were right there. Coach Johnson says thanks to this summer, where he had excellent participation from his players, he feels they are developing and ready to hit the ground running when practices for the season begin next week.

Coach Johnson's Panthers are led by a third-year starting quarterback. He is hopeful some of the experience and speed around him will be the catalyst to winning a few more football games.

The Panthers this season will be focused on playing fast, downhill, taking care of the football and tackling well. Coach Johnson believes if his team can do those things, they will have a banner year on Decatur's south side.

Decatur Eisenhower opens the football season at Streator.