Tim is now at Illinois: Beckman era begins with win over Western Michigan
September 3, 2012 7:04 AM
As Tim Beckman trundled off the field, athletic director Mike Thomas gave his new coach a big awkward hug/handshake that left both trying to maintain their balance.
Illinois won't jump into the Top 25 after a 24-7 victory over Western Michigan on Saturday that showed flaws as well as promise. But that doesn't diminish the positives of the Illini getting their act together amid an air of uncertainty in their first game under their new coach.
"It was great," said defensive end Michael Buchanan, who spearheaded a defense that came up with four turnovers. "We really wanted to do it for coach Beckman. All the guys in the locker room love him. We feel like he's bringing a new era. It feels great to get this first win."
Herb Gould
Illinois won't jump into the Top 25 after a 24-7 victory over Western Michigan on Saturday that showed flaws as well as promise. But that doesn't diminish the positives of the Illini getting their act together amid an air of uncertainty in their first game under their new coach.
"It was great," said defensive end Michael Buchanan, who spearheaded a defense that came up with four turnovers. "We really wanted to do it for coach Beckman. All the guys in the locker room love him. We feel like he's bringing a new era. It feels great to get this first win."
Herb Gould
Filed under: Illini Football, Western Michigan Broncos
