Morton Tops Pekin 42-13 in Mid-Illini Football Clash

Illinois high school football teams completed Week 8 action on Friday, October 9, 2026, with conference races and playoff pushes highlighted across the state. According to Sports Illustrated and Sports Yahoo, Morton earned a major victory while several Peoria-area teams secured postseason berths. Morton defeated Pekin 42-13 in a Mid-Illini Conference championship showdown, according to Sports Yahoo.

Both teams entered the matchup at 6-1 overall and 5-0 in conference play, making the result significant in the league race. Sports Yahoo reported that Morton overcame an early deficit by using special teams plays to change the game. Brody Watson blocked a punt that led to a safety, and Keenan Smith returned the following free kick 80 yards for a touchdown.

The Morton special teams surge produced 16 points with only 10 offensive snaps during that stretch, according to Sports Yahoo. The victory gave Morton control of a key conference matchup during the Week 8 schedule.

Farmington and Elmwood/Brimfield also clinched Illinois High School Association playoff spots during the Peoria-area slate, according to Sports Yahoo. Farmington earned its fourth win with a 22-0 road victory over Seneca. Elmwood/Brimfield secured its playoff position after beating West Hancock 62-40 on the road, Sports Yahoo reported. The result marked the 19th playoff appearance for Elmwood under head coach Todd Hollis in the last 24 years.

East Peoria entered its game against Washington needing a win to reach the playoffs and end a long losing streak against its rival, according to Sports Yahoo. The Raiders had not defeated Washington since Week 4 of the 2003 season. Washington extended that streak with a 41-7 victory over East Peoria, Sports Yahoo reported. East Peoria remained at three wins and needed another opportunity in Week 9 to pursue a postseason spot.

Sports Illustrated reported that Illinois high school football results from Friday, October 9, included a full schedule of games across the state. The publication noted that final scores were being collected from teams throughout Illinois.