The Seneca Indians enter 2026 as defending Class 3 state champions after a dominant 13-1 campaign that included a Big 8 title, district crown and a 33-26 victory over Lift for Life in the state final. Under fourth-year head coach Cody Hilburn (58-10 at Seneca), the program has climbed steadily, district title, quarterfinal, semifinal and now a championship, and the focus shifts to maintaining that standard.

Now that the Indians have reached the top of the mountain, how do they stay there?

“Here’s what I’ll tell you about our kids coming back,” Hilburn said. “They have done everything necessary to give themselves a chance. They show up. Our summer attendance was the best it’s ever been. And our kids want to show up and work. And I don’t know how that will look Week 1, Week 2, but if we continue to do that, hopefully we’re playing our best football when it matters.”

Seneca graduated 12 players, including several all-state talents, and returns six starters and 12 lettermen from a senior class that has never missed a state championship game. Those extra postseason weeks have built deep experience even among former role players now stepping into larger spots.

Offensively, Seneca averaged 47 points and 359 rushing yards per game last season. Experience returns on the line, where junior all-state tackle Landen Hughes and senior center Jeff Todd (first-team all-district) anchor the unit. Senior tight end/defensive end Aiden Crane (first-team all-district) and others will help control the line of scrimmage while new skill players develop. Junior quarterback Klay Davidson (6-1, 210) brings size and a dual-threat ability. Senior Silas Ball moves back to running back after late-season work at H-back, and versatile senior Brant Laughlin, a two-time state wrestling champion committed to SIU Edwardsville, adds playmaking flexibility at H-back and elsewhere.

Defensively, the Indians allowed just 20 points per game. Senior Landyn Hartje returns at defensive tackle, Crane anchors the end spot, and Laughlin contributes in the secondary. A roster of 70, the largest in Hilburn’s tenure, provides uncommon depth for Class 3, allowing rotation along both lines.

Seneca knows every Friday demands readiness in one of the state’s strongest small-school conferences. With proven culture, returning experience and a commitment to the process, the Indians are positioned to contend once again.

Seneca opens the season hosting East Newton.

To nominate an athlete, student, or coach please email [email protected]