Michigan not the team of old; Illini hope to beat Wolverines for third time in a row

"They're not scared of Michigan," Illinois coach Ron Zook said. "They have a very, very strong respect for Michigan. It's been a long time since Illinois beat Michigan three times in a row. It was before I was born."

A victory at Michigan also would secure bowl eligibility for the Illini for the first time since 2007.

"We're just worrying about Michigan," Illini defensive tackle Corey Liuget said. "If (a bowl game) comes, it comes. We're focusing on Michigan."

Supinie