Monticello will open the 2026 high school football season hosting IVC as the Sages look to build on a very positive 2025 fall football season.

Monticello went 7-2 in the regular season last year, rattling off four straight wins to close the regular season before a tough 21-20 loss to rival Tolono Unity in the second round of the Class 3A playoffs. Coach Cully Welter says that loss fueled his team this offseason, and he is proud of the way this year's seniors have stepped up to provide leadership in the program.

It will be another season when the Sages' offense will rely on a first-year senior starting quarterback. Colton Schubert leads the Sages offense, and Coach Welter believes he has a trio of running backs that are as strong a group as he's had in a while.

IVC has a first-year coach who comes from North Carolina. While Monticello has a general idea of what to expect, Coach Welter says they won't know until kickoff what they're facing.

Game time tonight from Monticello is at 7 pm. Hear the action on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.