It has been an exciting football season for the Streaks. Galesburg has been explosive offensively and has earned a IHSA Playoff spot. This will be the Streaks 10th trip to the IHSA Playoffs.
Some Illinois sports have had a State Series for over 100 years. The first IHSA football series was in 1974. Initially there were just 5 classes of 16 teams. This year there will be 8 classes of 48 teams each. Here is how the playoffs have changed over the years.
1974- 5 Classes- 16 Teams Per Class- 80 Total Teams
1980- 6 Classes- 16 Teams Per Class- 96 Total Teams
1985- 6 Classes- 32 Teams Per Class- 192 Total Teams
2000- 8 Classes- 32 Teams Per Class- 256 Total Teams
2026- 8 Classes- 48 Teams Per Class- 384 Total Teams
This year, the top 16 teams in each class will receive a bye, and the other 32 teams will play. The winners will advance to what the IHSA is calling the “First Round.”
Here is a look back at Galesburg’s previous State Appearances…