2 days ago
The week 1 game between Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers produced a 59-37 game in which Bears dominated the Panthers defense. In the high-scoring game, Bears quarterback did something interesting after the game while he was shaking hands with the Panthers head coach Dave Canales.
Interestingly the conversation was covered as the fields were mic'd up. The brief exchange of words now went viral and made headlines.
In the record-breaking 59-37 Week 1 blowout of the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams delivered one of the most talked-about postgame moments of the early 2026 NFL season. During the handshake line after the Bears' historic 96-point combined scoring, the mics on the field caught his exact words in Dave Canales' face. "Y'all are a great defense man," Caleb Williams said.
Feb 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams watches in the second half of the game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Southern California Trojans at Galen Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
It's a short, deadpan six-word line. No sarcasm in tone, no raised voice. It was a calm, straightforward compliment delivered right after Carolina's defense surrendered 59 points, 552 total yards, and multiple explosive plays.
#bears #Chicago #caleb
Interestingly the conversation was covered as the fields were mic'd up. The brief exchange of words now went viral and made headlines.
In the record-breaking 59-37 Week 1 blowout of the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams delivered one of the most talked-about postgame moments of the early 2026 NFL season. During the handshake line after the Bears' historic 96-point combined scoring, the mics on the field caught his exact words in Dave Canales' face. "Y'all are a great defense man," Caleb Williams said.
Feb 18, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams watches in the second half of the game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Southern California Trojans at Galen Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
It's a short, deadpan six-word line. No sarcasm in tone, no raised voice. It was a calm, straightforward compliment delivered right after Carolina's defense surrendered 59 points, 552 total yards, and multiple explosive plays.
#bears #Chicago #caleb
2 days ago
Sep. 14—The term sabermetrics was first coined by Bill James in 1980. It took quite a bit longer, however, for the idea to catch on with the baseball populace, but eventually acronyms like WAR, VORP and UZR caught on as a way to ****** yze the sport.
Analytics are equally as important these days in college basketball. It's why you hear Illinois coach Brad Underwood constantly referencing his team's adjusted offensive efficiency and offensive rebounding rate. Paid services like Synergy give coaching staffs an ****** ytical breakdown of their team to the finest detail.
Publicly available sites like , and , however, have broadened the usage and acceptance of a different way to follow and break down the sport. (KenPom and CBBAnalytics do have a subscription piece but are drastically cheaper than Synergy).
It's through those sites Illinois fans could track one of the most efficient offenses in the modern era during the 2025-26 season. The Illini eventually finished second in adjusted offensive efficiency behind Purdue last season. That particular metric was helped by the Illini not turning the ball over (eighth in turnover rate) and dominating the offensive glass (third in offensive rebounding rate).
One particular metric Illinois tracks is shot volume.
#like #rate #synergy
Analytics are equally as important these days in college basketball. It's why you hear Illinois coach Brad Underwood constantly referencing his team's adjusted offensive efficiency and offensive rebounding rate. Paid services like Synergy give coaching staffs an ****** ytical breakdown of their team to the finest detail.
Publicly available sites like , and , however, have broadened the usage and acceptance of a different way to follow and break down the sport. (KenPom and CBBAnalytics do have a subscription piece but are drastically cheaper than Synergy).
It's through those sites Illinois fans could track one of the most efficient offenses in the modern era during the 2025-26 season. The Illini eventually finished second in adjusted offensive efficiency behind Purdue last season. That particular metric was helped by the Illini not turning the ball over (eighth in turnover rate) and dominating the offensive glass (third in offensive rebounding rate).
One particular metric Illinois tracks is shot volume.
#like #rate #synergy
2 days ago
Sep. 14—It was an extraordinary football weekend that saw the two Big Ten favorites, Ohio State and Oregon, join the Illini in stunning disappointments. What follows are four burning takes from Saturday's scramble.
(1) Is the new UI defensive system unworkable at this level, or are the linemen simply lacking in NFL-level talent required of conference contenders?
Conclusion: It's equal proportions of both as the Illini permitted 43 first downs in two outings.
In the opener against UAB, the defense permitted 17 rushes of five yards or more, and gave up 194 ground yards while managing one sack. The Illini won with four huge plays, including a 65-yard punt return and a Hail Mary, avoiding early trouble because four UAB drives were chilled by Blazer penalties. Illinois tackling was already a major concern.
Against Duke on Saturday, the Illini again had a single sack amid surprisingly effective passes by Walker Eget (15 of 21 for 206 yards), and never got sensational Nate Sheppard under control. Sheppard bulled and darted for 147 yards, caught five passes for 41 and scored three touchdowns.
#four #level #sack
(1) Is the new UI defensive system unworkable at this level, or are the linemen simply lacking in NFL-level talent required of conference contenders?
Conclusion: It's equal proportions of both as the Illini permitted 43 first downs in two outings.
In the opener against UAB, the defense permitted 17 rushes of five yards or more, and gave up 194 ground yards while managing one sack. The Illini won with four huge plays, including a 65-yard punt return and a Hail Mary, avoiding early trouble because four UAB drives were chilled by Blazer penalties. Illinois tackling was already a major concern.
Against Duke on Saturday, the Illini again had a single sack amid surprisingly effective passes by Walker Eget (15 of 21 for 206 yards), and never got sensational Nate Sheppard under control. Sheppard bulled and darted for 147 yards, caught five passes for 41 and scored three touchdowns.
#four #level #sack
3 days ago
Facing 4th-and-1 with a four-point lead and 1:54 left on the clock, Duke decided to go for the jugular and clinch the game.
The 60,000-plus people in Gies Memorial Stadium knew where the ball was going. Illinois' defense knew who was getting the ball. Duke's offense definitely knew who they trusted.
Nate Sheppard, who had already scored three touchdowns on the day, ran up the middle for two yards, and the Blue Devils were able to run out the clock for a massive 31-27 victory in Champaign against the Fighting Illini.
"I think everybody knew right there where the ball was going," Sheppard said. "I think the whole stadium knew where the ball was going. It was just a matter of could we execute."
It was the 24th carry of Sheppard's day, with the sophomore running for 147 yards and a touchdown while also catching five passes for 41 yards and two scores. Despite the three trips to the end zone, his most impressive run might have been the one that set up his first touchdown of the game: a 19-yard run where he continued to evade would-be tacklers somehow and keep his balance.
#ball #three
The 60,000-plus people in Gies Memorial Stadium knew where the ball was going. Illinois' defense knew who was getting the ball. Duke's offense definitely knew who they trusted.
Nate Sheppard, who had already scored three touchdowns on the day, ran up the middle for two yards, and the Blue Devils were able to run out the clock for a massive 31-27 victory in Champaign against the Fighting Illini.
"I think everybody knew right there where the ball was going," Sheppard said. "I think the whole stadium knew where the ball was going. It was just a matter of could we execute."
It was the 24th carry of Sheppard's day, with the sophomore running for 147 yards and a touchdown while also catching five passes for 41 yards and two scores. Despite the three trips to the end zone, his most impressive run might have been the one that set up his first touchdown of the game: a 19-yard run where he continued to evade would-be tacklers somehow and keep his balance.
#ball #three
3 days ago
Duke improved to 2-0 on the season with a hard-fought 31-27 victory over Illinois on the road in Champaign in a sold out Gies Memorial Stadium. A non-conference Power Four win is a huge accomplishment in Week Two of the season.
Quarterback Walker Eget completed 15 of 21 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. Nate Sheppard rushed 24 times for 147 yards and one touchdown, and caught five passes for 41 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Jonah Burton caught four passes for 76 yards and a touchdown.
Cornerback Evan Smith accounted for the game's only turnover when he intercepted a pass from Illinois quarterback Katin Houser.
Play One: Illinois was leading 17-7 and Duke was facing a 4th down and four yards to go with nine minutes and 41 seconds remaining in the 2nd quarter. Duke lined up to punt but hiked the ball to Nate Sheppard instead of punter Kade Reynoldson and Sheppard ran for 15 yards and a 1st down. This play switched momentum from the Illini to the Blue Devils. Four plays later Nate Sheppard rushed two yards for a touchdown cutting the Illini lead to 17-14.
Play Two: At the eight minutes and 28 seconds mark of the 1st quarter, quarterback Walker Eget hit wide receiver Jonah Burton for a 12 yards touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7. Burton did a great job securing the ball as he went to the ground.
#illinois
Quarterback Walker Eget completed 15 of 21 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. Nate Sheppard rushed 24 times for 147 yards and one touchdown, and caught five passes for 41 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Jonah Burton caught four passes for 76 yards and a touchdown.
Cornerback Evan Smith accounted for the game's only turnover when he intercepted a pass from Illinois quarterback Katin Houser.
Play One: Illinois was leading 17-7 and Duke was facing a 4th down and four yards to go with nine minutes and 41 seconds remaining in the 2nd quarter. Duke lined up to punt but hiked the ball to Nate Sheppard instead of punter Kade Reynoldson and Sheppard ran for 15 yards and a 1st down. This play switched momentum from the Illini to the Blue Devils. Four plays later Nate Sheppard rushed two yards for a touchdown cutting the Illini lead to 17-14.
Play Two: At the eight minutes and 28 seconds mark of the 1st quarter, quarterback Walker Eget hit wide receiver Jonah Burton for a 12 yards touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7. Burton did a great job securing the ball as he went to the ground.
#illinois
4 days ago
CHAMPAIGN, Ill — Katin Houser and the Illini are off to a hot start against the Blue Devils. It the first drive of the game, Illinois methodically picked apart the Duke defense and ended the 9-play drive with a Collin Dixon touchdown.
Houser looked ultra efficient throwing 5-5 for 55 passing yards. His connection with Dixon was also on display, who caught three passes for 31 yards.
The cherry on top being the 13-yard strike to the back of the end zone with Dixon making the athletic grab. The kick was good giving Illinois the 7-0 lead.
#houser #blue #devils
Houser looked ultra efficient throwing 5-5 for 55 passing yards. His connection with Dixon was also on display, who caught three passes for 31 yards.
The cherry on top being the 13-yard strike to the back of the end zone with Dixon making the athletic grab. The kick was good giving Illinois the 7-0 lead.
#houser #blue #devils
4 days ago
Week 4 of the Illinois high school football season includes an important duel in the Mid-Illini Conference between Morton and Washington.
The Panthers have a 27-game Mid-Illini Conference win streak on the line.
East Peoria running back R.J. Jackson, who this season became the program's all-time leading rusher and touchdown scorer, is leading the Raiders through a road showdown at Metamora against a Redbirds defense considered one of the best in the area.
There is a full slate of games from teams in the Peoria area.
Here is the Journal Star preps experience for Week 4, your one-stop shop as we look around the Peoria-area football landscape in the fourth week of the 2026 high school season:
#area
The Panthers have a 27-game Mid-Illini Conference win streak on the line.
East Peoria running back R.J. Jackson, who this season became the program's all-time leading rusher and touchdown scorer, is leading the Raiders through a road showdown at Metamora against a Redbirds defense considered one of the best in the area.
There is a full slate of games from teams in the Peoria area.
Here is the Journal Star preps experience for Week 4, your one-stop shop as we look around the Peoria-area football landscape in the fourth week of the 2026 high school season:
#area
8 days ago
College football is back and the Big Ten Conference had 18 games played in the first week of the 2026 college football season with the result of many being blowouts.
The anticipation for the season has finally come to an end and most of the teams played as advertised. However, some teams hit the snooze **** on and it took them a moment to get into the game. Here is the Big Ten Roundup of each game involving a Big Ten Conference team.
Rutgers started the season off with a loss as the Minutemen dominated the Scarlet Knights from start to finish. The turning point in the game came in the second quarter as the Scarlet Knights turned the ball over twice, which gave Massachusetts the chance to create a massive 17-point second lead entering the second. Rutgers could be in for a long season.
The Golden Gophers flew past the Panthers with ease as they controlled the game on offense, defense and special teams. Senior wide receiver Javon Tracy started the Golden Gophers season with a bang with two punt return touchdowns to cap off Minnesota's exhilarating blowout.
The Fighting Illini's new senior quarterback Katin Houser took over Illinois' offense exceptionally as they moved up and down the field at will. Illinois' defense also held strong as they limited the Blazers' scoring opportunities with senior linebacker Ismael Kante getting a late-game pick-six.
#game #teams #conference #golden
The anticipation for the season has finally come to an end and most of the teams played as advertised. However, some teams hit the snooze **** on and it took them a moment to get into the game. Here is the Big Ten Roundup of each game involving a Big Ten Conference team.
Rutgers started the season off with a loss as the Minutemen dominated the Scarlet Knights from start to finish. The turning point in the game came in the second quarter as the Scarlet Knights turned the ball over twice, which gave Massachusetts the chance to create a massive 17-point second lead entering the second. Rutgers could be in for a long season.
The Golden Gophers flew past the Panthers with ease as they controlled the game on offense, defense and special teams. Senior wide receiver Javon Tracy started the Golden Gophers season with a bang with two punt return touchdowns to cap off Minnesota's exhilarating blowout.
The Fighting Illini's new senior quarterback Katin Houser took over Illinois' offense exceptionally as they moved up and down the field at will. Illinois' defense also held strong as they limited the Blazers' scoring opportunities with senior linebacker Ismael Kante getting a late-game pick-six.
#game #teams #conference #golden
8 days ago
On this episode of 'Oskee Talk' I revisit the Illini's season-opening victory over UAB (2:49), acknowledge the standouts from Illinois' win (8:03), and preview this week's matchup with Duke (16:06). I also provide an injury update and review Monday's coaches' comments to the media (24:19).
Then I recap the first full week of Big Ten action (29:20), give my thoughts on the Michigan controversy (33:24) and share why it will have lingering after-effects throughout the season (45:04).
Click below to listen!
Join the conversation! Comment below and make sure to subscribe to Oskee Talk wherever you find your podcasts!
#season
Then I recap the first full week of Big Ten action (29:20), give my thoughts on the Michigan controversy (33:24) and share why it will have lingering after-effects throughout the season (45:04).
Click below to listen!
Join the conversation! Comment below and make sure to subscribe to Oskee Talk wherever you find your podcasts!
#season
9 days ago
Notre Dame gets its 2026 season underway against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field on Sunday.
Nov 22, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Riley Mahlman, left, and Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Kerry Kodanko (73) react to a touchdown scored by Wisconsin Badgers running back Darrion Dupree (6) during the second half against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images
Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM EDT
Channel: NBC, NBC Sports 4K
#offensive #notre
Nov 22, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Riley Mahlman, left, and Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Kerry Kodanko (73) react to a touchdown scored by Wisconsin Badgers running back Darrion Dupree (6) during the second half against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images
Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM EDT
Channel: NBC, NBC Sports 4K
#offensive #notre
12 days ago
Fans may notice something is missing from the Illini hoops schedule this season, leaving them asking, where are the big home games?
It's no secret Brad Underwood has worked hard at strengthening the Illini's non-conference schedule, from agreeing to home-and-home deals, and booking out the United Center or Madison Square Garden. It just so happens that excitement will be lacking at State Farm Center this year.
A large portion of this is luck of the draw; it's the Illini's turn to travel to Cameron Indoor and battle the Blue Devils, and they'll return the favor in 2028. The same goes for Texas Tech, who will also travel to Champaign in 2028. However, away games aren't the only hurdle Underwood's squad will face, as they meet North Carolina, Missouri, and UConn, for neutral site games. The good news is UConn is being hosted at the United Center, an arena accessible to many Illini fans.
Something fans can keep in mind is that this could potentially mean a loaded home non-con schedule for the 2027-2028 season. With a "blue blood" like Duke already scheduled for SFC, any extra addition would make for a good home schedule.
Just because Kansas or UConn isn't playing the Illini in Champaign doesn't mean there is nothing to look forward to. Penn will be meeting in Champaign on Thursday, Nov. 5, looking for a rematch to its first round NCAA tournament loss the Illini handed to them (and the return of Illini arch-nemesis Fran McCaffery). Sophomore David Mirkovic posted a career high 29 points against the Quakers, and is slated to return from a left foot surgery right in time for this game.
#return
It's no secret Brad Underwood has worked hard at strengthening the Illini's non-conference schedule, from agreeing to home-and-home deals, and booking out the United Center or Madison Square Garden. It just so happens that excitement will be lacking at State Farm Center this year.
A large portion of this is luck of the draw; it's the Illini's turn to travel to Cameron Indoor and battle the Blue Devils, and they'll return the favor in 2028. The same goes for Texas Tech, who will also travel to Champaign in 2028. However, away games aren't the only hurdle Underwood's squad will face, as they meet North Carolina, Missouri, and UConn, for neutral site games. The good news is UConn is being hosted at the United Center, an arena accessible to many Illini fans.
Something fans can keep in mind is that this could potentially mean a loaded home non-con schedule for the 2027-2028 season. With a "blue blood" like Duke already scheduled for SFC, any extra addition would make for a good home schedule.
Just because Kansas or UConn isn't playing the Illini in Champaign doesn't mean there is nothing to look forward to. Penn will be meeting in Champaign on Thursday, Nov. 5, looking for a rematch to its first round NCAA tournament loss the Illini handed to them (and the return of Illini arch-nemesis Fran McCaffery). Sophomore David Mirkovic posted a career high 29 points against the Quakers, and is slated to return from a left foot surgery right in time for this game.
#return
12 days ago
Illinois pulls away from UAB 42-23 behind explosive offense and late pick-six originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Illinois turned a bizarre, possession-starved home opener into a decisive 42-23 victory over UAB at Memorial Stadium, shaking off early jitters with hyper-efficient playmaking and a 59-yard pick-six in the final minutes.
The final box score read like an anomaly. In Alex Mortensen's official debut as the Blazers' permanent head coach, UAB controlled the clock for a staggering 41:03, running 79 plays to Illinois' 43 and out-gaining the home side 413 to 332. Yet Bret Bielema's squad never panicked, averaging 7.7 yards per play, committing just one penalty for four yards, and scoring on sudden bursts rather than methodical marches.
In his Illini debut, quarterback Katin Houser was remarkably poised, finishing 13-of-17 (76 percent) for 182 yards, three passing touchdowns, zero turnovers, and a 6-yard rushing score early in the fourth quarter.
MORE: College football picks, predictions against the spread for Week 1 matchups
#pick #home #early #score
Illinois turned a bizarre, possession-starved home opener into a decisive 42-23 victory over UAB at Memorial Stadium, shaking off early jitters with hyper-efficient playmaking and a 59-yard pick-six in the final minutes.
The final box score read like an anomaly. In Alex Mortensen's official debut as the Blazers' permanent head coach, UAB controlled the clock for a staggering 41:03, running 79 plays to Illinois' 43 and out-gaining the home side 413 to 332. Yet Bret Bielema's squad never panicked, averaging 7.7 yards per play, committing just one penalty for four yards, and scoring on sudden bursts rather than methodical marches.
In his Illini debut, quarterback Katin Houser was remarkably poised, finishing 13-of-17 (76 percent) for 182 yards, three passing touchdowns, zero turnovers, and a 6-yard rushing score early in the fourth quarter.
MORE: College football picks, predictions against the spread for Week 1 matchups
#pick #home #early #score
12 days ago
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Katin Houser threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score in his Illinois debut as the Illini defeated UAB 42-23 on Thursday night in a season opener.
Houser, who transferred from East Carolina, completed 13 of 17 passes for 182 yards. Collin Dixon caught six passes for 70 yards and two TDs, and Ca'Lil Valentine rushed 11 times for 88 yards and a score.
UAB's Ryder Burton completed 18 of 33 passes for 219 yards and a TD. He also rushed for a score. Jonah Delange kicked three field goals for the Blazers.
Illinois scored two TDs on its first six plays and led 21-13 at halftime.
A 65-yard punt return by Mac Resetich set up the first TD — an 18-yard pass from Houser to Dixon. Valentine scored on a 51-yard run.
#illinois #three #completed
Houser, who transferred from East Carolina, completed 13 of 17 passes for 182 yards. Collin Dixon caught six passes for 70 yards and two TDs, and Ca'Lil Valentine rushed 11 times for 88 yards and a score.
UAB's Ryder Burton completed 18 of 33 passes for 219 yards and a TD. He also rushed for a score. Jonah Delange kicked three field goals for the Blazers.
Illinois scored two TDs on its first six plays and led 21-13 at halftime.
A 65-yard punt return by Mac Resetich set up the first TD — an 18-yard pass from Houser to Dixon. Valentine scored on a 51-yard run.
#illinois #three #completed
12 days ago
Champaign, Ill — Four seconds remaining in the first half, and 54 yards away from the UAB goal line. That was the position Katin Houser was in, up only one point, on the Blazers – however, magic was about to happen.
Houser, with all the time in the world, stepped up in the pocket and fired a missile that was tipped into the hands of Ty Robinson for a touchdown, as the clock read triple zeros.
The play put Illinois (1-0) up eight heading into the half and ultimately led to their victory over the visiting UAB Blazers (0-1) by a score of 42-23.
It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows for Illinois, though. UAB gave the Illini a serious run for their money – literally. The Blazers' run game was on point in Thursday's contest, with Braylon McReynolds and Roderic Robinson II combining for 114 of the team's 194 rushing yards.
UAB also dominated the time of possession, controlling the ball for 41:03 compared to the Illini's 18:57.
#illinois #point
Houser, with all the time in the world, stepped up in the pocket and fired a missile that was tipped into the hands of Ty Robinson for a touchdown, as the clock read triple zeros.
The play put Illinois (1-0) up eight heading into the half and ultimately led to their victory over the visiting UAB Blazers (0-1) by a score of 42-23.
It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows for Illinois, though. UAB gave the Illini a serious run for their money – literally. The Blazers' run game was on point in Thursday's contest, with Braylon McReynolds and Roderic Robinson II combining for 114 of the team's 194 rushing yards.
UAB also dominated the time of possession, controlling the ball for 41:03 compared to the Illini's 18:57.
#illinois #point
13 days ago
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Illini have sold out reserved lower bowl season tickets in consecutive years for the first time in program history. This comes in a period of resurgence under head coach Shauna Green, who will be heading into her fifth season with the orange and blue.
Under Green, the Illini have finally found their footing. After a 20-year NCAA Tournament drought, Green has led the Illini to three appearances in four years on top of notching three 20-win seasons. Illinois, who had one of the youngest teams in the nation last year, is poised for a breakthrough year, hoping to make it to the second weekend in March.
With incredible team and coaching performances, the Illini have seen a surge in attendance. Three of the top five home crowd attendance records have come under Green, including the third sellout matchup in program history against USC this past February. The total home attendance for the 2025-26 season neared 100,000, making the campaign the second-most successful in Illini women's basketball history.
The orange and blue have had fantastic performances at State Farm Center in Coach Green's tenure. In the past four seasons, the Illini are 51-15 in Champaign.
The Illini have also racked nine ranked wins with Green, five of which were at home, including a massive upset against No. 7 ranked Maryland in a New Year's Day 2026 showdown.
#season #home
Under Green, the Illini have finally found their footing. After a 20-year NCAA Tournament drought, Green has led the Illini to three appearances in four years on top of notching three 20-win seasons. Illinois, who had one of the youngest teams in the nation last year, is poised for a breakthrough year, hoping to make it to the second weekend in March.
With incredible team and coaching performances, the Illini have seen a surge in attendance. Three of the top five home crowd attendance records have come under Green, including the third sellout matchup in program history against USC this past February. The total home attendance for the 2025-26 season neared 100,000, making the campaign the second-most successful in Illini women's basketball history.
The orange and blue have had fantastic performances at State Farm Center in Coach Green's tenure. In the past four seasons, the Illini are 51-15 in Champaign.
The Illini have also racked nine ranked wins with Green, five of which were at home, including a massive upset against No. 7 ranked Maryland in a New Year's Day 2026 showdown.
#season #home
14 days ago
Illini Isaac is joined by Ethan Pavey of The Champaign Room to break down the UAB Blazers and preview what they hope to see in Illinois' first game of the season.
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Check out State Farm Agent Brian Hanson for a home, auto, business, and life insurance needs quote today: https://gtlk.link/5zlx5Emx
Chief's Naturals provides all-natural dog treats to Illini dogs and pups everywhere looking for snacks made with human-grade ingredients! SHOP NOW: https://gtlk.link/chiefsna...
#https #gtlk #isaac
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Check out State Farm Agent Brian Hanson for a home, auto, business, and life insurance needs quote today: https://gtlk.link/5zlx5Emx
Chief's Naturals provides all-natural dog treats to Illini dogs and pups everywhere looking for snacks made with human-grade ingredients! SHOP NOW: https://gtlk.link/chiefsna...
#https #gtlk #isaac
15 days ago
PEORIA — Illinois football is ready to launch the 2026 season with an opener against University of Alabama-Birmingham on Thursday night.
The Fighting Illini have carved out three straight winning seasons under head coach Bret Bielema, capped by a 9-4 effort last season that ended in a Music City Bowl victory.
Now they'll face UAB for the first time ever in an 8 p.m. kick at Gies Memorial Stadium.
The game carries a massive point spread, with Illinois favored by 27.5 points in most betting services.
The game is airing on Big Ten Network.
#game
The Fighting Illini have carved out three straight winning seasons under head coach Bret Bielema, capped by a 9-4 effort last season that ended in a Music City Bowl victory.
Now they'll face UAB for the first time ever in an 8 p.m. kick at Gies Memorial Stadium.
The game carries a massive point spread, with Illinois favored by 27.5 points in most betting services.
The game is airing on Big Ten Network.
#game
15 days ago
Sep. 1—➜ . Check out the podcast from our conversation .
➜ . The team with the most? The Washington Commanders (, and ) and San Francisco 49ers (, and ).
➜ the Los Angeles Angels affiliate who host the Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday night.
career interceptions by Illinois defensive back . That is the most on the Illini roster entering the 2026 season, and the fifth-year senior will look to add to that total on Thursday night against UAB. Scott missed most of the 2025 season because of a right foot injury, but is back and part of an experienced Illini secondary. UAB quarterback threw five interceptions in his 98 passing attempts during the 2025 season.
➜ . carries a 37-26 record with the Illini into Thursday night's opener against the Blazers at Gies Memorial Stadium. His 37 wins is fourth in school history, only behind (47), (83) and (131).
#season #interceptions #Commanders #francisco
➜ . The team with the most? The Washington Commanders (, and ) and San Francisco 49ers (, and ).
➜ the Los Angeles Angels affiliate who host the Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday night.
career interceptions by Illinois defensive back . That is the most on the Illini roster entering the 2026 season, and the fifth-year senior will look to add to that total on Thursday night against UAB. Scott missed most of the 2025 season because of a right foot injury, but is back and part of an experienced Illini secondary. UAB quarterback threw five interceptions in his 98 passing attempts during the 2025 season.
➜ . carries a 37-26 record with the Illini into Thursday night's opener against the Blazers at Gies Memorial Stadium. His 37 wins is fourth in school history, only behind (47), (83) and (131).
#season #interceptions #Commanders #francisco
15 days ago
The wait is almost over.
Illinois football opens the 2026 season Thursday night at Memorial Stadium, and while there are plenty of questions surrounding Bret Bielema's new-look roster, the Illini enter their opener as a massive favorite against UAB.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Illinois is currently a 27.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 54.5 points. The Illini moneyline sits at -7,000, while UAB is a massive +2,000 underdog.
So, what should we expect when the lights come on in Champaign?
There are certainly reasons to be cautious about laying nearly four touchdowns in a season opener.
#opener #favorite
Illinois football opens the 2026 season Thursday night at Memorial Stadium, and while there are plenty of questions surrounding Bret Bielema's new-look roster, the Illini enter their opener as a massive favorite against UAB.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Illinois is currently a 27.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 54.5 points. The Illini moneyline sits at -7,000, while UAB is a massive +2,000 underdog.
So, what should we expect when the lights come on in Champaign?
There are certainly reasons to be cautious about laying nearly four touchdowns in a season opener.
#opener #favorite
18 days ago
Aug. 29—I got about 8 minutes with Illinois coach Brad Underwood ahead of Wednesday's 25th Annual Illini Rebounders/Lou Henson Golf Outing. A short conversation he squeezed in before heading off to the ninth hole at Atkins Golf Club to hit some celebrity shots for the 38 groups playing in the outing.
It wasn't even entirely clear if I'd get that opportunity. I made the trip to Urbana mostly to see and be seen and got a chance to catch up with most of the Illinois coaching staff. Mission accomplished. The short conversation with Underwood was a bonus, that just so happened to deliver some and a few thoughts from the Illinois coach on the he was able to ******* emble.
Underwood spent a bit more time with CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein for his latest episode of "Inside College Basketball Now" on Thursday. Topics of conversation included Illinois' Final Four run, this year's team, which player might make the biggest leap and moving on without Keaton Wagler.
Check out the full episode below:
#annual
It wasn't even entirely clear if I'd get that opportunity. I made the trip to Urbana mostly to see and be seen and got a chance to catch up with most of the Illinois coaching staff. Mission accomplished. The short conversation with Underwood was a bonus, that just so happened to deliver some and a few thoughts from the Illinois coach on the he was able to ******* emble.
Underwood spent a bit more time with CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein for his latest episode of "Inside College Basketball Now" on Thursday. Topics of conversation included Illinois' Final Four run, this year's team, which player might make the biggest leap and moving on without Keaton Wagler.
Check out the full episode below:
#annual
18 days ago
Aug. 29—CHAMPAIGN — Barry Lunney Jr. has taken a unique path when it comes to quarterback development at Illinois.
The fifth-year offensive coordinator has leaned into the idea that "it takes a village."
Lunney is one of three Illinois coaches working with four Illini quarterbacks this season. He's still involved despite handing off the quarterbacks coach ****** le to Art Sitkowski. Pass game coordinator Mike Neu is also part of the equation.
"I know that sounds probably a little bit unique that you'd want that many people coaching them, but I think it's really good for the quarterback to have a different perspective and different feedback from different people," Lunney said. "We work really well together and have clearly defined roles in how we deal with them."
★ ★ ★
#different #coordinator #really
The fifth-year offensive coordinator has leaned into the idea that "it takes a village."
Lunney is one of three Illinois coaches working with four Illini quarterbacks this season. He's still involved despite handing off the quarterbacks coach ****** le to Art Sitkowski. Pass game coordinator Mike Neu is also part of the equation.
"I know that sounds probably a little bit unique that you'd want that many people coaching them, but I think it's really good for the quarterback to have a different perspective and different feedback from different people," Lunney said. "We work really well together and have clearly defined roles in how we deal with them."
★ ★ ★
#different #coordinator #really
18 days ago
Aug. 29—CHAMPAIGN — Brad Underwood's address to the crowd at Atkins Golf Club ahead of the 25th annual Illini Rebounders/Lou Henson Golf Outing included a mea culpa.
The Illinois men's basketball coach brought up the sting of this past April's Final Four loss to Connecticut and his insistence the Illini would get back to that stage during his 31/2 minute speech. He also thanked the fans in attendance for their consistent support of the program he's about to enter his 10th season leading.
Then Underwood discussed the recently released nonconference schedule for the 2026-27 season. A 12-game slate featuring multiple games against power-conference teams, but one that notably didn't have any of those teams coming to Champaign to play at State Farm Center.
"I will apologize," Underwood said. "I'll take the heat. It was very hard. Because we're expected to be OK, ****** ody wanted to come to Champaign and play us in a home-and-home."
Illinois, of course, is expected to be more than just "OK" this coming season. Five returning rotation players from a Final Four team with a high-level transfer addition and a six-man freshman class led by five-star guard Quentin Coleman has the Illini in the conversation among the best teams in the country.
#champaign #illini #four
The Illinois men's basketball coach brought up the sting of this past April's Final Four loss to Connecticut and his insistence the Illini would get back to that stage during his 31/2 minute speech. He also thanked the fans in attendance for their consistent support of the program he's about to enter his 10th season leading.
Then Underwood discussed the recently released nonconference schedule for the 2026-27 season. A 12-game slate featuring multiple games against power-conference teams, but one that notably didn't have any of those teams coming to Champaign to play at State Farm Center.
"I will apologize," Underwood said. "I'll take the heat. It was very hard. Because we're expected to be OK, ****** ody wanted to come to Champaign and play us in a home-and-home."
Illinois, of course, is expected to be more than just "OK" this coming season. Five returning rotation players from a Final Four team with a high-level transfer addition and a six-man freshman class led by five-star guard Quentin Coleman has the Illini in the conversation among the best teams in the country.
#champaign #illini #four
19 days ago
For the final game of the regular season, in-state rival Illinois travels to Ryan Field to battle for The Hat. The Fighting Illini are entering what seems to be a rebuilding year, but you never know in the world of college football. The Land of Lincoln Trophy will be earned by the winner of this rivalry game on Nov. 28.
Returning Production: 50% overall (52% offense, 47% defense); 75th in FBS
2025 Record: 9-4 (5-4 B1G)
Head Coach: Bret Bielema (sixth season)
2026 SP+ Overall: 33rd
#overall #fighting #land #lincoln
Returning Production: 50% overall (52% offense, 47% defense); 75th in FBS
2025 Record: 9-4 (5-4 B1G)
Head Coach: Bret Bielema (sixth season)
2026 SP+ Overall: 33rd
#overall #fighting #land #lincoln
19 days ago
It's no secret that the UConn Huskies have been the boogeyman, or monster hiding under the bed, for the Illinois men's basketball program in recent memory.
It all started back in 2024, when the Illini were amidst a magical March Madness run and ended up being tasked with facing a juggernaut Huskies team in the Elite Eight.
Things started off competitively in the game, with the score tied at 23 with two minutes to go in the first half, and both teams in the fight.
And that's when things took a turn for the worse for the Orange and Blue, as the Huskies went for the kill shot, ripping off a now-infamous 30-0 run.
Illinois ended up losing 77-52 after trailing by as many as 30 points at one point in the second half,
#started #ended #half #march
It all started back in 2024, when the Illini were amidst a magical March Madness run and ended up being tasked with facing a juggernaut Huskies team in the Elite Eight.
Things started off competitively in the game, with the score tied at 23 with two minutes to go in the first half, and both teams in the fight.
And that's when things took a turn for the worse for the Orange and Blue, as the Huskies went for the kill shot, ripping off a now-infamous 30-0 run.
Illinois ended up losing 77-52 after trailing by as many as 30 points at one point in the second half,
#started #ended #half #march
22 days ago
The Illinois basketball program will get another opportunity to host one of its 2027 commits in Champaign this fall.
According to 247Sports' Dushawn London, Illinois commit Quinton Kitt will take an official visit to Illinois on Oct. 22.
Kitt has been committed to Illinois since November, when the East Peoria native chose the Illini over a number of high-major offers, including Iowa, Michigan and Northwestern. He became the first member of Illinois' 2027 recruiting class.
The 6-foot-6 forward has continued to rise up the national recruiting rankings since his commitment. 247Sports Composite currently has Kitt rated as a four-star prospect and the No. 74 player nationally.
Kitt visited Illinois last August. At the time, Kitt told TCR that he was looking for a program that could develop him, help him reach the next level and compete for March Madness appearances.
#program #london
According to 247Sports' Dushawn London, Illinois commit Quinton Kitt will take an official visit to Illinois on Oct. 22.
Kitt has been committed to Illinois since November, when the East Peoria native chose the Illini over a number of high-major offers, including Iowa, Michigan and Northwestern. He became the first member of Illinois' 2027 recruiting class.
The 6-foot-6 forward has continued to rise up the national recruiting rankings since his commitment. 247Sports Composite currently has Kitt rated as a four-star prospect and the No. 74 player nationally.
Kitt visited Illinois last August. At the time, Kitt told TCR that he was looking for a program that could develop him, help him reach the next level and compete for March Madness appearances.
#program #london
25 days ago
Star Illini defensive back Matthew Bailey has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2026 Chuck Bednarik Award, the Maxwell Football Club announced Friday.
Bailey is one of 91 players under consideration for the award, which goes to the best defensive player in college football. He is also one of 19 Big Ten players on this year's watch list.
A team captain and two-time All-Big Ten selection, Bailey enters his senior season after leading Illinois in total tackles in each of the past two years. He recorded 76 tackles in 2025 after posting a career-high 94 tackles in 2024. Last season, he also set career bests with 59 solo tackles and four tackles for loss.
Bailey earned AP All-Bowl Team honors following Illinois' Citrus Bowl victory over No. 14 South Carolina, tying an Illinois bowl record with 14 tackles. He also ranks among the conference's top tacklers, finishing 14th in the Big Ten with 6.8 tackles per game in 2024.
The Bednarik Award has been presented annually since 1994. Named for College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Chuck "Concrete Charlie" Bednarik, the award recognizes the nation's top defensive player.
#defensive
Bailey is one of 91 players under consideration for the award, which goes to the best defensive player in college football. He is also one of 19 Big Ten players on this year's watch list.
A team captain and two-time All-Big Ten selection, Bailey enters his senior season after leading Illinois in total tackles in each of the past two years. He recorded 76 tackles in 2025 after posting a career-high 94 tackles in 2024. Last season, he also set career bests with 59 solo tackles and four tackles for loss.
Bailey earned AP All-Bowl Team honors following Illinois' Citrus Bowl victory over No. 14 South Carolina, tying an Illinois bowl record with 14 tackles. He also ranks among the conference's top tacklers, finishing 14th in the Big Ten with 6.8 tackles per game in 2024.
The Bednarik Award has been presented annually since 1994. Named for College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Chuck "Concrete Charlie" Bednarik, the award recognizes the nation's top defensive player.
#defensive
26 days ago
The Cincinnati Bearcats men's basketball team has released its full non-conference schedule for the remainder of 2026, with Big 12 games taking over in 2027.
The slate is highlighted by the unique opener vs. Ohio State at the Lindner Tennis Center in Mason Oct. 7 which will be part of doubleheader with Xavier and Dayton. That will be an exhibition and the Bearcats will also face national semifinalist Illinois Oct. 17 at Fifth Third Arena in another exhibition.
The Illini are No. 5 on the early 2026 KenPom rankings and finished No. 5 in last year's AP poll. Like UC's Jarred Calhoun, Illinois coach Brad Underwood was a former Bob Huggins ******* istant (at Kansas State).
The season opener is Nov. 2 against American University at Fifth Third Arena and a week later on Nov. 9, UC will host Minnesota of the Big Ten, the team that christened the arena in 1989 when UC won on a last-second 3-pointer from Steve Sanders.
On Nov. 14, UC travels to UD Arena for the Dayton Flyers, the same date the football Bearcats are at Iowa State.
#state #illinois
The slate is highlighted by the unique opener vs. Ohio State at the Lindner Tennis Center in Mason Oct. 7 which will be part of doubleheader with Xavier and Dayton. That will be an exhibition and the Bearcats will also face national semifinalist Illinois Oct. 17 at Fifth Third Arena in another exhibition.
The Illini are No. 5 on the early 2026 KenPom rankings and finished No. 5 in last year's AP poll. Like UC's Jarred Calhoun, Illinois coach Brad Underwood was a former Bob Huggins ******* istant (at Kansas State).
The season opener is Nov. 2 against American University at Fifth Third Arena and a week later on Nov. 9, UC will host Minnesota of the Big Ten, the team that christened the arena in 1989 when UC won on a last-second 3-pointer from Steve Sanders.
On Nov. 14, UC travels to UD Arena for the Dayton Flyers, the same date the football Bearcats are at Iowa State.
#state #illinois
27 days ago
Good morning, Illini fans! Football is getting closer, and Illinois soccer has its second match of the season tonight. Here's what you need to know today.
Illinois named six captains for the 2026 season: Matthew Bailey, Collin Dixon, Katin Houser, Aidan Laughery, Jake Renfro and Xavier Scott. The captains were selected by a team vote, giving Houser and several key veterans prominent leadership roles heading into the season.
WR Jayshon Platt was also named to the preseason Biletnikoff Award watch list, joining 43 other pass catchers considered among the nation's top receivers.
The NBA's decision to play preseason games at college arenas has sparked a fun question for Illini fans: Could State Farm Center eventually host an NBA game?
TCR's Robby Nardini makes the case, pointing to the arena's atmosphere and proximity to Illinois alums now starring in the ***** ociation.
#season
Illinois named six captains for the 2026 season: Matthew Bailey, Collin Dixon, Katin Houser, Aidan Laughery, Jake Renfro and Xavier Scott. The captains were selected by a team vote, giving Houser and several key veterans prominent leadership roles heading into the season.
WR Jayshon Platt was also named to the preseason Biletnikoff Award watch list, joining 43 other pass catchers considered among the nation's top receivers.
The NBA's decision to play preseason games at college arenas has sparked a fun question for Illini fans: Could State Farm Center eventually host an NBA game?
TCR's Robby Nardini makes the case, pointing to the arena's atmosphere and proximity to Illinois alums now starring in the ***** ociation.
#season
29 days ago
Good morning, Illini fans. We're officially in the final two-week stretch before Illinois football returns, and Monday brought plenty of news from Champaign. Here are the things that matter this morning.
The Illini were left out of the AP Top 25 preseason poll Monday, receiving nine votes and unofficially landing at No. 33.
That's a little lower than some Illinois fans probably hoped for after last year's 9-4 season.
Ranked teams are all over the schedule. Illinois faces No. 1 Ohio State, No. 2 Oregon and No. 22 Iowa.
Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. met with the media Monday and offered perhaps his strongest endorsement yet of new starting quarterback Katin Houser.
#illini #here #ranked
The Illini were left out of the AP Top 25 preseason poll Monday, receiving nine votes and unofficially landing at No. 33.
That's a little lower than some Illinois fans probably hoped for after last year's 9-4 season.
Ranked teams are all over the schedule. Illinois faces No. 1 Ohio State, No. 2 Oregon and No. 22 Iowa.
Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. met with the media Monday and offered perhaps his strongest endorsement yet of new starting quarterback Katin Houser.
#illini #here #ranked
30 days ago
In this episode of Oskee Talk I'm joined by TCR's Pleas Honeywood to preview the Fighting Illini defensive backs:
Program departures (6:24)
Illinois' "Big Three" are back (7:53)
Other notable players returning (20:11)
Incoming transfers (25:02)
#honeywood
Program departures (6:24)
Illinois' "Big Three" are back (7:53)
Other notable players returning (20:11)
Incoming transfers (25:02)
#honeywood
