If there’s one thing I know in life, it’s that Illinois college football never ever conforms to your expectations. No one saw their two BcS appearances coming (2001, 2007); and since they followed both seasons up with sub .500 choking, both these bowl appearances are now looked upon as fluky. Whenever Illinois has been predicted to do well (2000, 2002, 2008, 2009) they fell … [Read more...] about Illinois Fighting Ilini Season Preview: Defense
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NFL Draft’s First Two Rounds Will Feature Some Illini
For the fourth year in a row, the first couple rounds of the NFL Draft will feature a couple names from your Illinois Fighting Illini. Tailback Rashard Mendendall went in the first round in '08, cornerback Vontae Davis was the 25th overall pick in '09, and last year, wide receiver Arrelious Benn was just a couple picks off from being a first round selection. With all this … [Read more...] about NFL Draft’s First Two Rounds Will Feature Some Illini
Illini Football Next Level Defenders: Corey Liuget and Martez Wilson
Don't be surprised if the Illini run the table the rest of the way. Even if they don't, already at 5-3, (3-2 in Big Ten) they have greatly improved upon last year's 3-9 mark and will likely make their way into a pretty decent bowl. This season is a pleasant surprise to say the least. The MVP of 2010 is probably newly installed defensive coordinator Vic Koenning. The Illini … [Read more...] about Illini Football Next Level Defenders: Corey Liuget and Martez Wilson
Illinois Fighting Illini Showing a VASTLY Improved Run Defense
Through the first three games of the season, there's one facet of the 2010 Illinois Fighting Illini football team that is GREATLY improved over the 2009 squad- run defense. The Illini were terrible against the run last year, finishing ninth in the Big Ten in rushing yards allowed per game, and within the bottom third nationally. Through the first two games, the Illini ranked … [Read more...] about Illinois Fighting Illini Showing a VASTLY Improved Run Defense