Illinois could be this year's Michigan State

Last season, Michigan State seemingly came from nowhere to win 11 games and tie for the Big Ten title. This season, Illinois could emerge as that under-the-radar Big Ten team that contends for a conference championship and posts a double-digit win total. Illinois rallied from an 18-point, second-half deficit Saturday to beat Northwestern 38-35 and improve its record to 5-0. The Illini have a dynamic quarterback in Nathan Scheelhaase. They also have a favorable schedule. Illinois doesn't play Nebraska or Iowa this year. Its three toughest remaining opponents -- Ohio State, Michigan and Wisconsin -- have to visit Champaign. Illinois won't beat out Wisconsin for the Leaders Division title, but a 10-win season is possible.

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