IHSA Football Playoffs Hit by Historic Postponement Due to Winter Storm

Four Illinois high school state championship football games have been postponed. A severe winter storm is targeting central Illinois. This marks the first time in 51 years the IHSA playoffs have faced such a disruption.

The games were scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025. The Illinois High School Association announced the unprecedented decision late Friday. Illinois State University closed its campus, making Hancock Stadium unavailable.

Unprecedented Decision Reshapes Championship Weekend

IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson confirmed the historic move. According to Anderson, safety for all involved was the top priority. The National Weather Service forecast was a major factor in the decision.

The warning predicted six or more inches of snow for the Bloomington-Normal area. Strong winds and hazardous travel conditions were also expected. This forced the closure of the Illinois State University campus.

The Class 5A, 6A, 7A, and 8A title games are affected. Teams like Mount Carmel, East St. Louis, and St. Francis must now wait. Their championship moments are on hold due to the severe weather.

IHSA Scrambles to Find New Dates and Venues

The association stated the games will not be played on Sunday. Officials are actively reviewing all available options. Finding a suitable venue and date for four games is a complex logistical challenge.

According to the Chicago Tribune, the IHSA is working with multiple partners. The goal is to reschedule the contests as soon as safely possible. This situation is entirely new for the long-running playoff system.

The smaller class championships, 1A through 4A, proceeded as planned on Friday. Those games were completed before the worst of the storm arrived. Eight state champions were crowned despite the looming weather threat.

**This historic postponement of the IHSA football playoffs underscores the immense logistical effort behind state championships and the unpredictable power of winter weather.** The association now faces the tough task of delivering a fitting conclusion for the impacted teams and communities.

Thought you’d like to know

Which specific IHSA football playoff games were postponed?

The Class 5A, 6A, 7A, and 8A state championship games were postponed. Matchups included St. Francis vs. Providence and Mount Carmel vs. Oswego. The Class 1A-4A games played on Friday were not affected.

Why can’t the postponed games be played on Sunday?

The IHSA explicitly ruled out playing on Sunday. The winter storm warning extends through Sunday morning, maintaining dangerous conditions. Logistical planning for teams, officials, and venue staff also requires more lead time.

Has this ever happened before in IHSA history?

No, this is a historic first. The IHSA has held football state championships for 51 years. This is the first time championship games have been postponed due to weather.

What is the main reason for the postponement?

The primary reason is the severe winter storm and the subsequent closure of Illinois State University’s campus. Safety for thousands of travelers, athletes, and spectators was the decisive factor cited by officials.

Where were the championship games supposed to be held?

All games were scheduled for Hancock Stadium on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois. This venue has hosted the IHSA football finals for many years.

What are the teams supposed to do now?

Teams are expected to return home and await instructions from the IHSA. The association will communicate new dates and locations directly to the participating schools as soon as plans are finalized.