Regarding Kansas.
It will be a very tough to get a win but should be a good game. Kansas returns a ton but did lose their top pass rusher and a little more on the DL. Otherwise they are chock full of experience.
Daniels the QB is very good but has can be limited. He's very good at running as he was their #2 rusher last year despite a shoulder injury vs. TCU that kept him out until his return vs. K-State, a 5 game absence. He also throws well on the run and can make plays that appear to be luck but when he makes them so consistently, it's skill. He'll make some good throws in the pocket but others are well off the mark. Easier said than done but that's the ticket for Illinois.
The best comparison of teams KU played last year to Illinois was Iowa State, a 14-11 KU win. Sorta of two teams w/similar stats - other than Illinois got W's at the end and ISU didn't. Rushing and turnover margin being the difference for Illinois' wins.
Daniels, and KU, got their offense output and wins vs. crappy defenses. They do have a very dynamic offense with some speed but this won't be a shootout.
Illinois will try and establish the run. Leipold will stack the box. Will Illinois be able to throw the ball downfield? I think KU will have to blitz to get QB pressure. Will the Illinois offense be ready and able to make KU pay?
Should be a really fun game to watch as two really good coaches test each other.