New spring in Illini's steps

Said Williams: ''A lot of guys were high off the Rose Bowl. I don't believe we worked as hard. I don't think we had the mind-set to go out there and be killers. This year, it's completely different.''

Zook not only can put his finger on that, he's wrapping his arms around it.

''I love the attitude of this team, and the leadership,'' Zook said. ''Guys have stood up and said what they've thought. We haven't had that since I've been here. It's good. And I think it's necessary.''

Gould