Collinsville football is riding a wave of optimism as the 2026 season approaches, having finished last year with an 8‑3 record and a third‑place finish in its region.
Every position returns a starter, and several players who missed time due to injury are now fully healthy, giving the squad depth that was lacking in previous years.
A Senior‑Led Offense
Quarterback Mason McAteer, along with his longtime friends Gavin Lang, Sylas Adams, Kyler Beene and Jeremiah Killen, all enter their senior seasons after having shared the field since at least the eighth grade.
Their continuity should bring a chemistry that the team hopes will finally break the streak of four straight playoff appearances without a win.
The senior class brings not only talent but also a deep familiarity with the playbook, which should ease the transition for the young line that gained valuable experience last year.
A New Chapter in Class 2A
After competing in Class 3A, the Panthers have moved down to Class 2A, a division where they have historically enjoyed more success and where the competition is expected to be more manageable.
The shift also reflects the team’s belief that the experience gained in the tougher 3A environment will give them a stronger foundation for the upcoming schedule.
The season opens on August 21 at Sylvania, a venue that will test the new-look lineup early and set the tone for the months ahead.
With high expectations, a seasoned senior core and a refreshed schedule, Collinsville looks to finally turn playoff appearances into playoff victories.