Preparation more important than revenge for Illini

Linebacker Nate Bussey can't remember if he was on the field, but he can't forget watching a Fresno State lineman catch a tipped ball and run it into the end zone for a game-winning two-point conversion.

"Devastating," Bussey said. "I couldn't believe it happened."

That 53-52 loss in Champaign last season ended the equally devastating Illini season with a 3-9 record. The Illini travel to Fresno State for their regular-season finale on Friday night with seemingly more luck.

Shannon Ryan