Illini Football 2026

#76      
lstewart53x3
Ander1345 said:
An 8 win season would be unprecedented success in my lifetime. Everyone is playoff brained obviously but I would be EXTREMELY happy with 10-3, 9-4, 8+
Click to expand...
When we were winning 2-3 games a year, I promised myself I’d be thrilled if we consistently one 6-7 games and made bowls every year. Give me 7-5 and it’ll be another fun fall.
 
#78      
Bucktown
WeWillWhen said:
With all of the turnover of players, coaches and scheme, I honestly think 7-5 would be a big success.
Click to expand...
Sounds right to me too. 7-5 historically after two very good seasons would be a success. However, if we are hoping to stay at a level where we make or complete for a playoff spot at least every couple of years, the team needs a path to at least 9ish wins in 2027 after a rebuilding year.

Maybe I am too snakebit after years of doldrums, but I am not seeing the path to competing for a playoff spot in 2027.
 
#81      
ChiefGritty
IlliniInKnoxville said:
Can someone give me an honest prediction on our record this year? Idk what to expect for the season.
Click to expand...
Reasons for optimism: a lot of offensive skill position talent with a coordinator who knows how to use it, an excellent secondary, and a coaching staff that has built the kind of winning culture that hasn't been seen here in decades

Reasons for pessimism: Luke + Lunney was magic in a way that will be difficult to replicate, losing a ton along both lines, totally changing the defensive strategy that defined the way we play on both sides of the ball, and it's possible we're going to be like sub-P4 level helpless on the defensive line which could just destroy everything.

Lower upside potential and higher downside risk than last year, but agree with @illini0440 the Vegas O/U is a good way to anchor your reasonable expectations.
 
#85      
bluemountain
I will be happy if we make a bowl game. Our talent level, particularly the O-Line and the front 7 on defense, is below average in the Big 10. Luke saved our a** multiple times over the past 2 years; can House do the same?
 
#86      
IlliDan
bluemountain said:
I will be happy if we make a bowl game. Our talent level, particularly the O-Line and the front 7 on defense, is below average in the Big 10. Luke saved our a** multiple times over the past 2 years; can House do the same?
Click to expand...
At the end of the year this HOUSE will be prime property similar to Luke,lets hope so.
 
#88      
OskieWowWow
I think we are gonna surprise people on offense, especially with our weak schedule. Iowa as usual feels like the make-or-break game of the season
 
Back