Illini Football 2026

#27      
I think we win the ones we are supposed to and also beat Iowa and Nebraska at home towards the end, because I think under BB we have been getting better (vs other teams) as the season goes on.

So, 10-2 for me!
We're always going to have a game that we're favored in and "should win," that we lose. It's going to happen; so I don't think 10-2 is on the table.

Last year it was Wisconsin. Year prior it was Minnesota.

If we hit our absolute ceiling, like in 2024, I could see 9-3.
 
Last edited:
#28      
I think our schedule is alot like the 2024 year. Two playoff teams that you're not going to beat, but everyone else a "meh" team who we'll play in alot of close games.

2025 was two playoff teams as well, but AT WASHINGTON was a very difficult game. Much harder than road games of AT Nebraska and AT Rutgers in 2024.
 
#31      
Schuster: Is he ever healthy? No. Am I overly hopeful because the reports of his training camp every year are positive? Of course. It's simply gut feel but I would feel better about him starting or at least getting serious reps more than most of the newcomers.
 
#32      
I didn't even have to think about it: Whitney Mercilus
Mercilus is a great choice. I think an argument can be made for Newton or Liuget as well as that DT spot might be of even more value in the new system. Opponents need to account for them, opening up our LBs
 
Back