Season Preview: Forreston Cardinals

The Forreston Cardinals are coming off one of the best decades in NUIC history. Over the past 10 seasons they have gone 98-23 and have made the playoffs every year, posting a 24-7 record during this time. They have only seen two 1st round exits during this run, while putting together 3 state championship teams, adding another semifinal appearance, and 2 other quarterfinal appearances.

In 2019, the Cards started off the season ranked #1 in state, and held that title until they lost to eventual state champion Lena-Winslow in week 7. Forreston eventually lost to semifinalist Annawan-Wethersfield in the 2nd round; a game many feel the Cards let get away. The Cards will once again return quite a few experienced players off of last year's team, and should see a lot of success in this spring season as they will be vying for the top spot in the South Division. The key area for the Cardinals will be building up their line play, something they haven't had to worry about over the past few seasons. This will be their most inexperienced area. Another key spot to fill will be that of the QB position, having someone who can manage the multi-directional double wing offense that has become a Cardinal staple.

Forreston has gone 33-22 in the playoffs, while winning state titles in 2014, 2016 and 2018. Forreston was slated to open the season at home with Dakota, but this game has been canceled due to COVID reasons. Forreston will open the season at home in week 2 against Milledgeville.

Forreston Playoff History

1975 0-1

1976 1-1

1979 0-1

1987 0-1

1988 2-1

1997 0-1

1999 0-1

2000 1-1

2001 3-1

2002 0-1

2003 0-1

2004 0-1

2005 0-1

2006 1-1

2007 1-1

2010 0-1

2011 2-1

2012 2-1

2013 0-1

2014 5-0 Class 1A State Champion

2015 1-1

2016 5-0 Class 1A State Champion

2017 3-1

2018 5-0 Class 1A State Champion

2019 1-1