Illinois-Ohio State preview

During the Illini's five-game losing streak, opponents are shooting 52 percent against the Illini. Only one of the four opponents missed more shots than it made (Purdue, 45 percent). Those are startling numbers for a system predicated on sound defense. What is the cause of this defensive collapse? "I think some of it is fundamentals. Pride. And a little bit of effort," Weber said. "We've got to have something to hang our hat on. We were hanging our hat on (defense)." The coach laid out his message for the players: Stay positive and come to play. He had a goal for himself, too. "We've got to keep them away from the negativity," he said.

Klee