Guys on TV are saying the next three games are winnable. Would not be surprised to see us win all three. Nice to hear.
Between the time we were deepest into the despair of the Coaching Carousel thread (probably after that dreadful defensive performance vs. Minnesota) and now (3.5 straight strong, sound, solid defensive performances and this kind of graphic being published)... I can't recall a team that, at the very least, *looks* so different so quick.
They are definitely fun to watch. I’ve been telling one of my co-workers to keep an eye on Milo Eifler, he hits so hard. I have some respect for Rutger’s quarterback, but that poor kid is going to be sore as hell tomorrow,I read a stat somewhere that said Illinois is #1 in the country in points off of turnovers. IF we could limit some of the stupid big plays we give up, this defense would be so fun to watch always! As it is right now, it's still pretty much fun to watch.
Navarro says hello lolBest receiver since Geronimo Allison
Really he was only off by one half!Between the time we were deepest into the despair of the Coaching Carousel thread (probably after that dreadful defensive performance vs. Minnesota) and now (3.5 straight strong, sound, solid defensive performances and this kind of graphic being published)... I can't recall a team that, at the very least, *looks* so different so quick.
Seems to me Robert's "it kinda all of the sudden just clicks" preachment was only off by 1 week. Kudos to him.
I mean other coaches must emphasize the value of turnovers right?
Because they practice it. First guy hits the ball carrier, and second guy’s job is to strip it. That and it’s preached over and over again. Eventually this becomes ingrained in them and becomes second nature. Every play they are trying to get the ball back whenever possible. Some of our players are better at it than others.Lovie even said this in his post game interview. So, that’s a good question. If all coaches preach it’s importance, why are Lovie’s teams always so good at it?
And, lately, the ball has been bouncing right into our arms/hands. The Navaro catch (still have no clue what happened there), the Tony Adam TO on the fly, Dele interception, ........
And, my husband doesn't get sports at all unless I'm screaming Cardinals, Illini, Blues. Whatever, it's often enough he thinks he's always cheered everygoddamned winning midwestern sports team to a championship. My work on earth is done simply cuz I got a guy from Montana to swear Cardinals, Illini and Blues fooking fistpump rule.Greetings from Phoenix. I will predicate my contribution with an admission: more than once in the past few years I personally declared the Lovie Era to be a failed hire and dead experiment by our A.D. That being said, I do like watching the football being played by this team right now. In fact, I thoroughly enjoy watching a defense play game-breaking D, a quarterback making tough throws, and a team finding their identity. I am not about to "count my chickens before they are hatched" by being satisfied with five wins with three games to go, of which only one is need to become bowl eligible, but I do like what I see from this year's Lovie squad. I see some play-makers making plays and opportunities for those who do have skills to shine and score the football. I would guess that no matter what Coach keeps his job with more talent ready for next year. For that, I am proud of these kids and Smith's staff. They are showing some f'n heart for a change and I can seriously appreciate that. Please win one more game, boys! Please and thank you for allowing at least this fan to enjoy watching Fighting Illini football again. Damn, it's been awhile since I could!
Have we ever had stats like these before ?
I was awake for the entire first half. Fell asleep at halftime. Woke up to a 38-10 win.
You're welcome, everyone.