View source for 1956 Illinois Fighting Illini football team

The 1956 Illinois Fighting Illini football team, led by head coach Ray Eliot, had a record of 2–5–2 during the Big Ten Conference season. The season began with a strong win against California on September 29, where Illinois overcame a 20–0 deficit to secure a 32–20 victory. Abe Woodson emerged as a key player, scoring three touchdowns in this game.

On October 6, Washington defeated Illinois, 28–13, with Dean Derby's 92-yard touchdown run being a standout play. In their next game on October 13 against Ohio State (ranked No. 5), Illinois lost 26–6 despite Frank Ellwood's two rushing touchdowns for Ohio State. Ray Nitschke gained attention for his toothless grin after being hit by a helmet, losing four front teeth.

Illinois upset Michigan State on October 27, with Woodson scoring all three touchdowns in a 20–13 victory that ended Michigan State's 12-game winning streak. The team tied with Purdue on November 3 and lost to Michigan (ranked No. 10) on November 10. Illinois tied Wisconsin on November 17, and Northwestern won the annual rivalry game on November 24.

Awards highlighted Abe Woodson as a first-team All-Big Ten player by both the Associated Press and United Press, while guard Dave Walker was named MVP. Statistically, Hiles Stout led with 278 passing yards, Abe Woodson had 599 rushing yards, and he also contributed 257 receiving yards.

The season saw mixed results, with notable performances and upsets but ultimately a seventh-place finish in the Big Ten.