Illini Football 2026

I would say the goal should be to be qualified for a bowl- so have 6 wins- before the Northwestern game. I would consider another winning season a success given all the turnover this year. My first analysis of the SP+ has 7 wins as most likely outcome

BlueFlag said:

From Pat Farrell's comments, it's apparent that the new defensive scheme/philosophy is getting some quick buy-in by the players.

That's good.

Click to expand...

Farrell is one you can see a big jump from. Now fully grown into a Big Ten DLineman. He flashed this past year but these are the type of players who you know what you're going to get at minimum, but with gains and another year of experience could be one of the better players in the conference at his position. A lot of wildcards here on the defensive side of the ball (Offense as well for that matter) that could make them/this team a real threat.

I've not followed how we're doing in the portal, but MSU, Nebraska, UCLA, Iowa, and maybe even Northwestern feel like tossup games to me.