Monticello opened the 2026 season in impressive fashion Friday night, using a dominant first half to knock off Illinois Valley Central 26-6 in Illini Prairie Conference action.
The Sages overcame a slew of injuries while building a 26-0 halftime advantage before both teams went scoreless in the second half.
Monticello struck on its opening possession when Colton Shubert, making his first varsity start, connected with Zeke Young for a 23-yard touchdown. The Sages then turned an IVC turnover into points when Maddux Utley broke free for a 31-yard touchdown with 10:43 remaining in the second quarter, extending the lead to 14-0.
Danial Moore and Shubert added touchdowns later in the half as Monticello’s defense continued to control the game.
Shubert left late in the first half and did not return, but he still put together an impressive debut. He completed 11-of-15 passes for 139 yards and a touchdown while adding 42 rushing yards and another score.
Utley led the Sages on the ground with 87 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. He also caught two passes for four yards. Ayden McCool hauled in a team-high three receptions for 47 yards, while Young finished with 28 receiving yards.
Monticello moves to 1-0 overall and 1-0 in the Illini Prairie Conference. The Sages will hit the road next Friday night for a rivalry matchup at Tolono Unity.
