3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
Additional Information
Coaching Staff
Head Coach:
Official School Bio - Ron Zook
Assistant Coaches:
Official School Bios - Assistant Coaches
Reggie Mitchell - Assistant Head Coach/Recruiting Coordinator/Running Backs
Mike Locksley - Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks
Vince Okruch - Defensive Coordinator
Dino Dawson - Wide Receivers
Dan Disch - Special Teams/Outside Linebackers
Curt Mallory - Defensive Secondary
Tom Sims - Defensive Line
Jim Pry - Tight Ends
Ed Warinner - Run Game Coordinator/Offensive Line
Official School Bio - Ron Zook
Assistant Coaches:
Official School Bios - Assistant Coaches
Reggie Mitchell - Assistant Head Coach/Recruiting Coordinator/Running Backs
Mike Locksley - Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks
Vince Okruch - Defensive Coordinator
Dino Dawson - Wide Receivers
Dan Disch - Special Teams/Outside Linebackers
Curt Mallory - Defensive Secondary
Tom Sims - Defensive Line
Jim Pry - Tight Ends
Ed Warinner - Run Game Coordinator/Offensive Line
Recruiting
Starters Returning: 21 (Offense 10, Defense 10, Special Teams 1)
Letterman Returning: 44 (Offense 23, Defense 19, Special Teams 2)
Notable Returners:
Who isn't returning from last year's squad?
Starters Lost: 7 (Offense 4, Defense 2, Special Teams 1)
Letterman Lost: 18 (Offense 7, Defense 9, Special Teams 2)
Notable Losses:
TE Melvin Bryant, DT Ryan Matha and P Steve Weatherford ... that's it folks.
Incoming Recruits:
Letterman Returning: 44 (Offense 23, Defense 19, Special Teams 2)
Notable Returners:
Who isn't returning from last year's squad?
Starters Lost: 7 (Offense 4, Defense 2, Special Teams 1)
Letterman Lost: 18 (Offense 7, Defense 9, Special Teams 2)
Notable Losses:
TE Melvin Bryant, DT Ryan Matha and P Steve Weatherford ... that's it folks.
Incoming Recruits:
Illinois's class of 2005 was ranked #51 nationally by Rivals, and #45 by Scout. However, those rankings were before three of the Illini's top recruits - four-star defensive tackle Ismail Abdunafi, three-star athlete Guesly Dervil, and three-star linebacker Rahkeem Smith - each failed to gain admission to the school (although Smith made it in on his second try, after a year at prep school). With the academic casualties figured into the mix, Illinois's "average star rating" drops to less than 2.50.
The star of Illinois's class was running back Rashard Mendenhall, who was ranked as the fourth best player in the state of Illinois and the 90th best prospect in the entire country by Rivals, and a five-star prospect by Scout. As a true freshman, Mendenhall rushed 48 times for 218 yards (4.5 average); while this season he has 477 yards on 61 carries (7.7 average), and an additional 151 yards receiving. Four other true freshman saw significant minutes in 2005 - tight end Will Davis, wide receiver Derrick McPhearson, linebacker Brit Miller, and defensive end Sirod Williams, from Garfield Heights, whom some thought was one of the top "sleepers" in the state of Ohio for the class of 2005.
The Illinois Fighting Illini Class of 2005
Fast Fact: In 2005, Illinois signed only six of the top thirty players in the state of Illinois (#4, #15, #17, #19, #25, #26). By comparison, Iowa also signed six (#1, #2, #3, #5, #7, #22), and Northwestern inked five (#12, #18, #20, #21, #27).
Fast Fact: 2005 offensive line signee Trevor Scott was a teammate of current Buckeye quarterback Antonio Henton at Fort Valley (Georgia) Peach County High School.
Fast Fact: 2004 running back signee Brock Bolen, from Germantown Valley View, was the #12 prospect in the state of Ohio according to Rivals. The 234-pound Bolen spurned an offer from Ohio State, which wanted him to play fullback, in favor of Illinois, which promised him a chance to play tailback. As a true freshman for the Illini, Brock lined up at (you guessed it) fullback, where he got 11 carries for 51 yards in limited action. Disappointed that the Illini staff wasn't structuring their offense to maximize his potential, Bolen promptly transferred to Louisville, where he must envision himself as the heir-apparent to superstar Michael Bush (who ironically turned down Ohio State's offer to play running back because Lousiville promised to let him play quarterback). So the world turns....
According to Rivals, Illinois's 2006 recruiting effort ranked number 30 nationally. The Illini did a much better job of signing the local talent, netting eight of the top thirty players in state, including three of the top six, and seven of the top eighteen. Clearly, the top recruit for the Illini in 2006 was quarterback Isiah "Juice" Williams, from Chicago Vocational, who may have been the best high school signal caller in the nation last year. Ohio State made a strong push for Williams, but he decided to stay closer to home and committed to the Illini in the summer of 2005. Williams has a rare combination of athleticism and presence which should eventually equate to stardom. Currently, Juice is the starting quarterback for Illinois, and he has exhibited the growing pains that one would expect from a true freshman; on the season, Williams has completed 83 of 155 passes (42.6 pct) for 1,252 yards, with 9 touchdowns and 8 interceptions, for a QB rating of 103.52; he also has 364 yards rushing to date. To go along with Juice Williams, the Illini signed the top two wide receiver prospects in the state of Illinois, four-star players Chris James (Chicago Morgan Park) and Marques Wilkins (Decatur MacArthur), and several solid three-star prospects such as linebacker Anterio Jackson (Chicago Fenger), defensive back Garrett Edwards (Downers Grove North), and linebacker Dustin Jefferson (Kankakee).
In 2006, the Illini signed several players from the state of Ohio, most notably tight end Jeff Cumberland from Columbus Brookhaven, who was generally regarded as one of the top prospects in the state last year. Cumberland is starting at tight end for Illinois as a true freshman, and so far he has caught ten passes for 139 yards and a touchdown. Other Ohioans who signed with Illinois were speedy wide receiver Joe Morgan from Canton McKinley (Buckeye alums Mike Doss, Kenny Peterson, Jamar Martin); offensive lineman Ryan Palmer from Canton Glen Oak (current Buckeye Brian Hartline); defensive end Antonio James from Massillon Washington (current Buckeye Justin Zwick; Buckeye alum Chris Spielman); and linebacker Antonio Steele, who graduated from Bedford St. Peter Chanel (Buckeye alum Brandon "Bam" Childress) before attending Long Beach City College.
Besides picking up several talented players from Ohio, the Illinois staff made great inroads into the Washington, DC, area. In 2006, the Illini signed the top two prospects in DC - quarterback Eddie McGee (H.D. Woodson)and defensive back Vontae Davis (Dunbar) - along with suburban Maryland players defensive back Travon Bellamy (Greenbelt Roosevelt) and defensive end Clay Nurse (Beltsville High Point).
Versatile four-star athlete Chris Duvalt from Lakeland, Florida, had some of the most impressive high school videos that we saw last season. Chris displayed solid coverages skills as a cornerback, and exhibited excellent speed, quickness, and manuervability in the open field (during a punt return or after a pick). As a true freshman, Duvalt has seen time on special teams, and he has recently begun to return kick-offs for the Illini.
The Illinois Fighting Illini Class of 2006
Fast Fact: 2006 offensive line signee Brandon Jordan was a high school classmate of Buckeye defenisive lineman Dexter Larimore at Merrillville High in Merrillville, Indiana.
Fast Fact: 2006 tight end signee Michael Hoomanawanui was a teammate of current highly-rated defensive tackle prospect Josh Brent at Bloomington (Illinois) Central Catholic. Both the Buckeyes and the Illini are heavily recruiting Brent, who is rated as the #5 prospect in the state of Illinois by Rivals.
So far, Illinois has had a tough time in 2007, with only seven verbal commitments to date. Two of the Illini's commitments are from Ohio - offensive lineman Steve Matas (Mentor) and defensive lineman Daryle Ballew (Cincinnati Withrow). Illinois has a chance to reel in a top 20 class nationally if they can sign some of the top in-state players whom the staff is still pursuing, including Josh Brent, the #5 prospect, from Bloomington Central Catholic (Ohio State and Illinois lead); running back Robert Hughes, the #2 prospect, from Chicago Hubbard (Ohio State, Illinois, and Notre Dame lead); and defensive end Martez Wilson, the #1 prospect, from Chicago Simeon (Ohio State, Illinois, Notre Dame, Southerrn Cal, and Miami lead). The Illini are also a major player for Arrelious Benn, the nation's top wide receiver prospect, from Washington Dunbar (the same high school as 2006 Illinois defensive back signee Vontae Davis).
What is the future for Illini recruiting? Well, first off, Illinois must reestablish a presence in Chicago, a city that has been dominated by Notre Dame, Michigan, and especially Iowa in recent years; and also in St. Louis, which produces many talented players who end up at programs throughout the Midwest (but not often in Champaign). If Zook can make major inroads into those two regional centers, keep expanding his base in Ohio, and use his contacts in the state of Florida to develop a reputation down south, then he might be able to right the Illini ship, which is somewhere between foundering and sinking right now.
The star of Illinois's class was running back Rashard Mendenhall, who was ranked as the fourth best player in the state of Illinois and the 90th best prospect in the entire country by Rivals, and a five-star prospect by Scout. As a true freshman, Mendenhall rushed 48 times for 218 yards (4.5 average); while this season he has 477 yards on 61 carries (7.7 average), and an additional 151 yards receiving. Four other true freshman saw significant minutes in 2005 - tight end Will Davis, wide receiver Derrick McPhearson, linebacker Brit Miller, and defensive end Sirod Williams, from Garfield Heights, whom some thought was one of the top "sleepers" in the state of Ohio for the class of 2005.
The Illinois Fighting Illini Class of 2005
[strike]DT Ismail Abdunafi, Bakersfield (California) Junior College (6' 4", 285 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 4*; Scout 5*[/strike]
OL William Bergen, Tampa Middleton (6' 4", 260 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]QB Paul Blalock, Aurora (Illinois) Waubonsie Valley (6' 0", 190 lbs); Rivals 3* (#26 in Illinois); Scout 3*[/strike]
OL Eric Block, New Orleans Jesuit (6' 3", 282 lbs, 5.1 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DT Immanuel Chu, Woodstock, Georgia (6' 2", 263 lbs, 4.97 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
ATH William Davis, Greenbelt (Maryland) Eleanor Roosevelt (6' 2", 208 lbs, 4.53 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]ATH Guesly Dervil, Jacksonville Ed White (5' 11", 180 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#52 in Florida); Scout 2*[/strike]
WR Kyle Hudson, Mattoon, Illinois (5' 11", 149 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Gregory McClendon, Columbus (Georgia) Carver (6' 2", 207 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Derrick McPhearson, Fork Union Military Academy (6' 0", 195 lbs, 4.4 forty): Rivals 4*; Scout 4*
RB Rashard Mendenhall, Skokie (Illinois) Niles West (6' 0", 190 lbs, 4.5 forty): Rivals 4* (#4 in Illinois; #90 nationally); Scout 5*
LB Brit Miller, Decatur (Illinois) Eisenhower (6' 1", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#25 in Illinois); Scout 3*
TE Michael Nabolotny, Glenview (Illinois) Glenbrook South (6' 6", 240 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DE Doug Pilcher, Hinsdale (Illinois) Central (6' 5", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#15 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DE Rodney Pittman, Fort Washington (Maryland) Friendly (6' 2", 190 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout N/R
DE Sam Porter, Chicago Morgan Park (6' 1", 221 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#17 in Illinois); Scout 3*
OL Trevor Scott, Fort Valley (Georgia) Peach County (6' 3", 269 lbs, 5.17 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]LB Rahkeem Smith, Villa Park (Illinois) Willowbrook (6' 1", 213 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 3* (#19 in Illinois); Scout 3*[/strike]
[strike]DT Tremayne Walker, Tallahassee Rickards (6' 3", 285 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
DE Sirod Williams, Garfield Heights, Ohio (6' 0", 226 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (#37 in Ohio); Scout 2*
OL William Bergen, Tampa Middleton (6' 4", 260 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]QB Paul Blalock, Aurora (Illinois) Waubonsie Valley (6' 0", 190 lbs); Rivals 3* (#26 in Illinois); Scout 3*[/strike]
OL Eric Block, New Orleans Jesuit (6' 3", 282 lbs, 5.1 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DT Immanuel Chu, Woodstock, Georgia (6' 2", 263 lbs, 4.97 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
ATH William Davis, Greenbelt (Maryland) Eleanor Roosevelt (6' 2", 208 lbs, 4.53 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]ATH Guesly Dervil, Jacksonville Ed White (5' 11", 180 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#52 in Florida); Scout 2*[/strike]
WR Kyle Hudson, Mattoon, Illinois (5' 11", 149 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Gregory McClendon, Columbus (Georgia) Carver (6' 2", 207 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Derrick McPhearson, Fork Union Military Academy (6' 0", 195 lbs, 4.4 forty): Rivals 4*; Scout 4*
RB Rashard Mendenhall, Skokie (Illinois) Niles West (6' 0", 190 lbs, 4.5 forty): Rivals 4* (#4 in Illinois; #90 nationally); Scout 5*
LB Brit Miller, Decatur (Illinois) Eisenhower (6' 1", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#25 in Illinois); Scout 3*
TE Michael Nabolotny, Glenview (Illinois) Glenbrook South (6' 6", 240 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DE Doug Pilcher, Hinsdale (Illinois) Central (6' 5", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#15 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DE Rodney Pittman, Fort Washington (Maryland) Friendly (6' 2", 190 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout N/R
DE Sam Porter, Chicago Morgan Park (6' 1", 221 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#17 in Illinois); Scout 3*
OL Trevor Scott, Fort Valley (Georgia) Peach County (6' 3", 269 lbs, 5.17 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
[strike]LB Rahkeem Smith, Villa Park (Illinois) Willowbrook (6' 1", 213 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 3* (#19 in Illinois); Scout 3*[/strike]
[strike]DT Tremayne Walker, Tallahassee Rickards (6' 3", 285 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
DE Sirod Williams, Garfield Heights, Ohio (6' 0", 226 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (#37 in Ohio); Scout 2*
Fast Fact: In 2005, Illinois signed only six of the top thirty players in the state of Illinois (#4, #15, #17, #19, #25, #26). By comparison, Iowa also signed six (#1, #2, #3, #5, #7, #22), and Northwestern inked five (#12, #18, #20, #21, #27).
Fast Fact: 2005 offensive line signee Trevor Scott was a teammate of current Buckeye quarterback Antonio Henton at Fort Valley (Georgia) Peach County High School.
Fast Fact: 2004 running back signee Brock Bolen, from Germantown Valley View, was the #12 prospect in the state of Ohio according to Rivals. The 234-pound Bolen spurned an offer from Ohio State, which wanted him to play fullback, in favor of Illinois, which promised him a chance to play tailback. As a true freshman for the Illini, Brock lined up at (you guessed it) fullback, where he got 11 carries for 51 yards in limited action. Disappointed that the Illini staff wasn't structuring their offense to maximize his potential, Bolen promptly transferred to Louisville, where he must envision himself as the heir-apparent to superstar Michael Bush (who ironically turned down Ohio State's offer to play running back because Lousiville promised to let him play quarterback). So the world turns....
According to Rivals, Illinois's 2006 recruiting effort ranked number 30 nationally. The Illini did a much better job of signing the local talent, netting eight of the top thirty players in state, including three of the top six, and seven of the top eighteen. Clearly, the top recruit for the Illini in 2006 was quarterback Isiah "Juice" Williams, from Chicago Vocational, who may have been the best high school signal caller in the nation last year. Ohio State made a strong push for Williams, but he decided to stay closer to home and committed to the Illini in the summer of 2005. Williams has a rare combination of athleticism and presence which should eventually equate to stardom. Currently, Juice is the starting quarterback for Illinois, and he has exhibited the growing pains that one would expect from a true freshman; on the season, Williams has completed 83 of 155 passes (42.6 pct) for 1,252 yards, with 9 touchdowns and 8 interceptions, for a QB rating of 103.52; he also has 364 yards rushing to date. To go along with Juice Williams, the Illini signed the top two wide receiver prospects in the state of Illinois, four-star players Chris James (Chicago Morgan Park) and Marques Wilkins (Decatur MacArthur), and several solid three-star prospects such as linebacker Anterio Jackson (Chicago Fenger), defensive back Garrett Edwards (Downers Grove North), and linebacker Dustin Jefferson (Kankakee).
In 2006, the Illini signed several players from the state of Ohio, most notably tight end Jeff Cumberland from Columbus Brookhaven, who was generally regarded as one of the top prospects in the state last year. Cumberland is starting at tight end for Illinois as a true freshman, and so far he has caught ten passes for 139 yards and a touchdown. Other Ohioans who signed with Illinois were speedy wide receiver Joe Morgan from Canton McKinley (Buckeye alums Mike Doss, Kenny Peterson, Jamar Martin); offensive lineman Ryan Palmer from Canton Glen Oak (current Buckeye Brian Hartline); defensive end Antonio James from Massillon Washington (current Buckeye Justin Zwick; Buckeye alum Chris Spielman); and linebacker Antonio Steele, who graduated from Bedford St. Peter Chanel (Buckeye alum Brandon "Bam" Childress) before attending Long Beach City College.
Besides picking up several talented players from Ohio, the Illinois staff made great inroads into the Washington, DC, area. In 2006, the Illini signed the top two prospects in DC - quarterback Eddie McGee (H.D. Woodson)and defensive back Vontae Davis (Dunbar) - along with suburban Maryland players defensive back Travon Bellamy (Greenbelt Roosevelt) and defensive end Clay Nurse (Beltsville High Point).
Versatile four-star athlete Chris Duvalt from Lakeland, Florida, had some of the most impressive high school videos that we saw last season. Chris displayed solid coverages skills as a cornerback, and exhibited excellent speed, quickness, and manuervability in the open field (during a punt return or after a pick). As a true freshman, Duvalt has seen time on special teams, and he has recently begun to return kick-offs for the Illini.
The Illinois Fighting Illini Class of 2006
OL Jon Asamoah, Park Forest (Illinois) Rich East, (6' 5", 250 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Travon Bellamy, Greenbelt (Maryland) Eleanor Roosevelt (6' 0", 178 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#20 in Maryland); Scout 3*
DE Jerry Brown, St. Louis Vashon (6' 4", 262 lbs, 4.8 forty); Rivals 3* (#11 in Missouri); Scout 3*
TE Jeff Cumberland, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 4", 220 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 4* (#11 in Ohio); Scout 4*
DB Vontae Davis, Washington Dunbar (6' 0", 184 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#1 in DC); Scout 3*
DB Chris Duvalt, Lakeland (Florida) Lake Gibson (5' 10", 159 lbs, 4.38 forty); Rivals 4* (#49 in Florida); Scout 2*
DB Garrett Edwards, Downers Grove (Illinois) North (6' 2", 192 lbs); Rivals 3* (#13 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DB Antonio Gully, St. Louis Cardinal Ritter (6' 0", 175 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Dere Hicks, Valley Forge Military Academy (5' 10", 175 lbs, 4.41 forty); Rivals 2* (Prep School); Scout 2*
TE Michael Hoomanawanui, Bloomington (Illinois) Central Catholic (6' 5", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#16 in Illnois); Scout 2*
OL Randall Hunt, Valley Forge Military Academy (6' 6", 286 lbs); Rivals 3* (Prep School); Scout 3*
LB Anterio Jackson, Chicago Fenger (6' 2", 240 lbs); Rivals 3* (#18 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DE Antonio James, Massillon Washington (6' 5", 245 lbs); Rivals 3* (#30 in Ohio); Scout 3*
WR Chris James, Chicago Morgan Park (6' 0", 177 lbs, 4.55 forty); Rivals 4* (#4 in Illinois); Scout 3*
LB Dustin Jefferson, Kankakee, Illinois (6' 0", 203 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 3* (#22 in Illinois); Scout 3*
OL Brandon Jordan, Merrillville, Indiana (6' 5", 290 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
QB Eddie McGee, Washington H.D. Woodson (6' 4", 189 lbs, 4.64 forty); Rivals 2* (#2 in DC); Scout 2*
WR Joe Morgan, Canton McKinley (6' 2", 175 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
DE Clay Nurse, Beltsville (Maryland) High Point (6' 3", 235 lbs, 4.8 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Ryan Palmer, Canton Glen Oak (6' 6", 274 lbs, 5.1 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Justin Sanders, NE Mississippi CC (6' 2", 195 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 2*
LB Rahkeem Smith, Hargrave Military Academy (6' 1", 220 lbs); Rivals 4* (Prep School); Scout 4*
LB Antonio Steele, Long Beach CC (6' 2", 215 lbs, 4.55 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 3*
WR Marques Wilkins, Decatur (Illinois) MacArthur (6' 0", 182 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 4* (#6 in Illinois); Scout 3*
QB Isiah Williams, Chicago Vocational (6' 2", 207 lbs, 4.77 forty); Rivals 4* (#2 in Illinois; #80 nationally); Scout 4*
[strike]OL Craig Wilson, Harvey (Illinois) Thornton Twp (6' 5", 290 lbs); Rivals 3* (#17 in Illinois); Scout 2*[/strike]
PK Kyle Yelton, Chesterton, Indiana (6' 1", 180, 4.65 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
DB Travon Bellamy, Greenbelt (Maryland) Eleanor Roosevelt (6' 0", 178 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#20 in Maryland); Scout 3*
DE Jerry Brown, St. Louis Vashon (6' 4", 262 lbs, 4.8 forty); Rivals 3* (#11 in Missouri); Scout 3*
TE Jeff Cumberland, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 4", 220 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 4* (#11 in Ohio); Scout 4*
DB Vontae Davis, Washington Dunbar (6' 0", 184 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 3* (#1 in DC); Scout 3*
DB Chris Duvalt, Lakeland (Florida) Lake Gibson (5' 10", 159 lbs, 4.38 forty); Rivals 4* (#49 in Florida); Scout 2*
DB Garrett Edwards, Downers Grove (Illinois) North (6' 2", 192 lbs); Rivals 3* (#13 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DB Antonio Gully, St. Louis Cardinal Ritter (6' 0", 175 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Dere Hicks, Valley Forge Military Academy (5' 10", 175 lbs, 4.41 forty); Rivals 2* (Prep School); Scout 2*
TE Michael Hoomanawanui, Bloomington (Illinois) Central Catholic (6' 5", 230 lbs); Rivals 3* (#16 in Illnois); Scout 2*
OL Randall Hunt, Valley Forge Military Academy (6' 6", 286 lbs); Rivals 3* (Prep School); Scout 3*
LB Anterio Jackson, Chicago Fenger (6' 2", 240 lbs); Rivals 3* (#18 in Illinois); Scout 3*
DE Antonio James, Massillon Washington (6' 5", 245 lbs); Rivals 3* (#30 in Ohio); Scout 3*
WR Chris James, Chicago Morgan Park (6' 0", 177 lbs, 4.55 forty); Rivals 4* (#4 in Illinois); Scout 3*
LB Dustin Jefferson, Kankakee, Illinois (6' 0", 203 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 3* (#22 in Illinois); Scout 3*
OL Brandon Jordan, Merrillville, Indiana (6' 5", 290 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
QB Eddie McGee, Washington H.D. Woodson (6' 4", 189 lbs, 4.64 forty); Rivals 2* (#2 in DC); Scout 2*
WR Joe Morgan, Canton McKinley (6' 2", 175 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
DE Clay Nurse, Beltsville (Maryland) High Point (6' 3", 235 lbs, 4.8 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Ryan Palmer, Canton Glen Oak (6' 6", 274 lbs, 5.1 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Justin Sanders, NE Mississippi CC (6' 2", 195 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 2*
LB Rahkeem Smith, Hargrave Military Academy (6' 1", 220 lbs); Rivals 4* (Prep School); Scout 4*
LB Antonio Steele, Long Beach CC (6' 2", 215 lbs, 4.55 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 3*
WR Marques Wilkins, Decatur (Illinois) MacArthur (6' 0", 182 lbs, 4.69 forty); Rivals 4* (#6 in Illinois); Scout 3*
QB Isiah Williams, Chicago Vocational (6' 2", 207 lbs, 4.77 forty); Rivals 4* (#2 in Illinois; #80 nationally); Scout 4*
[strike]OL Craig Wilson, Harvey (Illinois) Thornton Twp (6' 5", 290 lbs); Rivals 3* (#17 in Illinois); Scout 2*[/strike]
PK Kyle Yelton, Chesterton, Indiana (6' 1", 180, 4.65 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
Fast Fact: 2006 offensive line signee Brandon Jordan was a high school classmate of Buckeye defenisive lineman Dexter Larimore at Merrillville High in Merrillville, Indiana.
Fast Fact: 2006 tight end signee Michael Hoomanawanui was a teammate of current highly-rated defensive tackle prospect Josh Brent at Bloomington (Illinois) Central Catholic. Both the Buckeyes and the Illini are heavily recruiting Brent, who is rated as the #5 prospect in the state of Illinois by Rivals.
So far, Illinois has had a tough time in 2007, with only seven verbal commitments to date. Two of the Illini's commitments are from Ohio - offensive lineman Steve Matas (Mentor) and defensive lineman Daryle Ballew (Cincinnati Withrow). Illinois has a chance to reel in a top 20 class nationally if they can sign some of the top in-state players whom the staff is still pursuing, including Josh Brent, the #5 prospect, from Bloomington Central Catholic (Ohio State and Illinois lead); running back Robert Hughes, the #2 prospect, from Chicago Hubbard (Ohio State, Illinois, and Notre Dame lead); and defensive end Martez Wilson, the #1 prospect, from Chicago Simeon (Ohio State, Illinois, Notre Dame, Southerrn Cal, and Miami lead). The Illini are also a major player for Arrelious Benn, the nation's top wide receiver prospect, from Washington Dunbar (the same high school as 2006 Illinois defensive back signee Vontae Davis).
What is the future for Illini recruiting? Well, first off, Illinois must reestablish a presence in Chicago, a city that has been dominated by Notre Dame, Michigan, and especially Iowa in recent years; and also in St. Louis, which produces many talented players who end up at programs throughout the Midwest (but not often in Champaign). If Zook can make major inroads into those two regional centers, keep expanding his base in Ohio, and use his contacts in the state of Florida to develop a reputation down south, then he might be able to right the Illini ship, which is somewhere between foundering and sinking right now.
Behind the Numbers
Last week, this section of the preview predicted that Troy Smith would have a career game. Unfortunately, the wind took away the one thing that last week's opponent was most susceptible to; the long ball.
This week Ohio State will be playing in what Jim Tressel calls "the windiest stadium in the Big Ten". Fortunately, this week's numbers don't suggest an Illini weakness that weather can mask. In fact, inclement weather may be more likely to hurt the home team this week.
A glance Behind the Numbers will tell us why, but before we look Behind the Numbers we have to look at the numbers themselves. And here they are:
Overall - Yards/Points
..................OHIO STATE...rk...Illinois....rk
Total Offense.....418.33 ypg...14...337.75 ypg..58
Diff. Tot. Off....122.8%........9....92.0%......69
Total Defense.....261.00 ypg....8...301.25 ypg..30
Diff. Tot. Def.....67.4%........3....87.6%......31
Scoring Offense....35.89 ppg....7....17.00 ppg..96
Diff. Sc. Off.....158.9%........9....69.0%......95
Scoring Defense.....7.33 ppg....1....27.25 ppg..88
Diff. Sc. Def......26.2%........1...111.6%......81
Rushing Offense...180.78 ypg...17...161.50 ypg..30
Diff. Rush. Off...168.9%........4...103.0%......47
Rushing Defense....91.67 ypg...18...127.00 ypg..47
Diff. Rush. Def....52.1%........7....87.7%......46
Passing Offense...237.56 ypg...27...176.25 ypg..84
Diff. Pass. Off...101.6%.......45....83.8%......90
Passing Defense...169.33 ypg...26...174.25 ypg..34
Diff. Pass. Def....80.2%.......16....87.6%......36
NOTE: In calculating the averages and rankings above, all games between Div. I-A and Div. I-AA teams have been factored out. These numbers will therefore differ from those seen elsewhere.
Total Offense.....418.33 ypg...14...337.75 ypg..58
Diff. Tot. Off....122.8%........9....92.0%......69
Total Defense.....261.00 ypg....8...301.25 ypg..30
Diff. Tot. Def.....67.4%........3....87.6%......31
Scoring Offense....35.89 ppg....7....17.00 ppg..96
Diff. Sc. Off.....158.9%........9....69.0%......95
Scoring Defense.....7.33 ppg....1....27.25 ppg..88
Diff. Sc. Def......26.2%........1...111.6%......81
Rushing Offense...180.78 ypg...17...161.50 ypg..30
Diff. Rush. Off...168.9%........4...103.0%......47
Rushing Defense....91.67 ypg...18...127.00 ypg..47
Diff. Rush. Def....52.1%........7....87.7%......46
Passing Offense...237.56 ypg...27...176.25 ypg..84
Diff. Pass. Off...101.6%.......45....83.8%......90
Passing Defense...169.33 ypg...26...174.25 ypg..34
Diff. Pass. Def....80.2%.......16....87.6%......36
NOTE: In calculating the averages and rankings above, all games between Div. I-A and Div. I-AA teams have been factored out. These numbers will therefore differ from those seen elsewhere.
Behind Ohio State's Numbers
The first thing that stands out about Ohio State's numbers is that the passing offense ranks lower, both in terms of yardage and differential, than any other part of the Buckeyes' game. OSU fans know this is a direct result of Jim Tressel taking the air out of the ball when he has a lead. And the Buckeyes have had a lead since early in the 2nd quarter of the Fiesta Bowl. The Buckeyes' ranking in Differential Rushing Offense (#4) is also a direct result of the weekly buttoning-up of the offense.
To still rank ninth nationally in Differential Total Offense is amazing. For nearly half of the minutes played this year, the Buckeyes have been running at teams that know they will be running. And they still gain 22.8% more yards than their opponents give up, on average (see the 2nd row of the table).
There isn't much else to say about OSU's numbers. These are the numbers that one would expect of the #1 team in College Football.
Behind Illinois' Numbers
The numbers that really tell the story of this matchup lie in the Illinois column. And it is clear that the Illini have the same problem, statistically, on both sides of the ball. They are average offensively and good defensively with respect to yards; but with respect to points both offense and defense are ranked quite low.
Offensively, Illinois has trouble scoring because they are one-handed; not as one-handed as Navy, but one-handed enough that any team capable of stopping their running game while containing Juice Williams' ability to make big plays can shut this team down. Clearly this does not bode well for the Illini.
Where this match-up gets interesting though is upon examination of the Illinois defense. They rank 30th in Total Defense and 31st in Differential Total Defense, surrendering only 87.6% as many yards as their opponents average. They are not especially susceptible to either the run or the pass. Clearly they have the potential to be a good but not great defense.
So why in the world are they giving up so many points?? It is tempting to conclude that Illinois is susceptible to the big play, but that is simply not the case. While they have given up several this year, they are much better than Minnesota in defending the field vertically.
In fact, while Indiana had 10 plays of 15 or more yards against the Illini, no other team had more than 7 such plays against them. Indiana's mobile quarterback Kellen Lewis had his fingerprints all over most of those plays, so it is tempting to suggest that Troy will burn Illinois very badly. While this may be true, to be fair we have to reveal that Illinois had not seen Kellen Lewis much on film and essentially hosted his coming out party.
So why all the points? The answer to that question lies only partly with the defense. Most of the problem can be found by examining the Illini offense and special teams.
Ball Insecurity
There is no way to sugar-coat this so let's dive in. Only the lowly New Mexico State Aggies (15) have lost more fumbles this year than have the Fighting Illini (13). Two of the fumbles given up by Illinois have been returned for touchdowns. They might feel as if they are safe this week, as NO team in Division I-A has recovered fewer enemy fumbles than Ohio State. No One. But then the Illini offense has also given up two touchdowns on interceptions, which OSU is uniquely good at snatching.
Illinois' special teams have been just as generous as their offense. Two of their punts have been blocked, both for touchdowns. Two free kicks have been returned for touchdowns, one a kick-off and the other following a safety (more points with the defense watching helplessly from the bench).
Bottom Line: Illinois is last in the Big 10 and 116th in Div. I-A in Turnover Margin. Ohio State is 2nd in the conference and 7th nationally.
Field Position
As if the turnovers weren't bad enough, the Illini special teams have not stepped up to the challenge of providing good field position.
Apart from the touchdowns, two other kick-offs were returned for 60 and 57 yards respectively, setting up more points for the opposition. Two of the 13 fumbles have been on punt returns, setting up scores. Illinois is dead last in the conference in both net punting and punt returns, ranking 117th and 108th in the country respectively.
Defense Not Helping
The Illini stop troops have no room to complain about field position, as they have left the offense in bad position on a number of occasions.
While causing a fumble at the two isn't all bad (yes, they have managed that), several turnovers the defense has caused did not have to result in poor field position. The Illini have managed to intercept three enemy passes in their own end zone. That's not a bad thing by itself, but not one of those interceptions resulted in a touchback. Two of them were returned to their own one-yard-line. The other was returned to the eight and fumbled (recovered by the opposition at the 11).
And it's not just in field position that the defense has hurt the Illini. While OSU takes pride in having surrendered zero points off of turnovers this year, the Illinois defense can make no such claim.
In fact, in examining the Illinois season play-by-play, the BtN staff could find only 2 instances where a team was stopped from scoring by the Illinois defense after a turnover. A few times they were stopped by the end of the half, and sometimes they were "stopped" because they were just trying to burn the clock at the end of the game. Seldom does Illinois' defense actually step up when they are suddenly and unexpectedly thrust onto the field.
Discipline?
Perhaps this last point tells us as much as any of the numbers can tell us. Illinois does not react well to sudden change. In fact, one time when they forced a fumble, the opposing offense picked the ball up and went 41 yards for a score.
Therein lies the real difference between these teams.
- OSU practices "sudden change" moments and excels in them - Illinois is weakest after a "sudden change"
- OSU prides itself on ball security - Illinois coughs it up more than any other team in the conference
- OSU practices special teams play as much as anyone, and excels at it - Illinois not so much
As with any football game, there will be sudden changes on Saturday in Champaign. Perhaps the weather will play a part, perhaps not. Either way, rain or shine, something will happen that will require each team to react with confidence and discipline. From that point on, this game will be as one-sided as any we've seen this year.
DSA Prediction
Speaking of the DSA prediction, here it is. We combine each team's Average Offense with the other team's Differential Defense (and vice versa) and we get the following:
Ohio State:....367 - 370 yards
Illinois:..........228 - 240 yards
Ohio State:....40 - 43 points
Illinois:............4 - 5 points
Deja Vu?
Illinois:..........228 - 240 yards
Ohio State:....40 - 43 points
Illinois:............4 - 5 points
Deja Vu?
OSU has surpassed the expectations laid out by DSA in the past several weeks, suggesting that the already dominant Buckeyes are improving more than the teams they are playing. This fact, combined with the extreme unlikelihood of Illinois scoring a safety (or God forbid another defensive XP) in order to meet DSA expectations, suggests that a second straight shut-out might be in order.
The last time OSU had two consecutive shut-outs was in 1996.
- 11/2/96 - Minnesota, at home: 45-0
- 11/9/96 - Illinois, in Champaign: 48-0
More Behind the Numbers
There are numbers that tell us more about Ohio State of course; but they don't tell us anything about the upcoming game apart from the fact that Illinois is in deep, deep trouble. To examine the Buckeyes' Dominance points-wise, let's divide Differential Scoring Offense by Differential Scoring Defense to provide a single metric: Differential Scoring Composite (DSC). To examine the Buckeyes' Dominance yards-wise, let's divide Differential Total Offense by Differential Total Defense to provide a single metric: Differential Yardage Composite (DYC).
The following tables show how the Buckeyes stack up nationally.
Team...................DSC.....Rank
Ohio State.............6.061...1
LSU....................4.328...2
Michigan...............3.223...3
Rutgers................3.017...4
Boston College.........2.993...5
Florida................2.977...6
Auburn.................2.873...7
California.............2.502...8
Texas..................2.495...9
Louisville.............2.493..10
.
.
.
Illinois...............0.618..94
Team...................DYC.....Rank
LSU....................1.947...1
Ohio State.............1.822...2
Michigan...............1.742...3
Florida................1.694...4
Wisconsin..............1.601...5
Oregon.................1.564...6
USC....................1.558...7
Tennessee..............1.522...8
Rutgers................1.481...9
Clemson................1.473..10
.
.
.
Illinois...............1.050..51
Ohio State.............6.061...1
LSU....................4.328...2
Michigan...............3.223...3
Rutgers................3.017...4
Boston College.........2.993...5
Florida................2.977...6
Auburn.................2.873...7
California.............2.502...8
Texas..................2.495...9
Louisville.............2.493..10
.
.
.
Illinois...............0.618..94
Team...................DYC.....Rank
LSU....................1.947...1
Ohio State.............1.822...2
Michigan...............1.742...3
Florida................1.694...4
Wisconsin..............1.601...5
Oregon.................1.564...6
USC....................1.558...7
Tennessee..............1.522...8
Rutgers................1.481...9
Clemson................1.473..10
.
.
.
Illinois...............1.050..51
Ilinois Traditions
The Fighting Illini are trying to fight the good fight with their football program. They are very rich with traditions, old and new. While their forum isn't the heaviest of traveled roads they sure are polite Sunday drivers!
- Illinois hosted its first-ever home game Nov. 26, 1890.
- One of the most dramatic and dignified traditions in college athletics is the performance of Chief Illiniwek (pronounced "ill-EYE-nih-wek".) Since 1926, this symbol has stirred pride and respect in audiences at Memorial Stadium. Illiniwek was the name of the loose confederation of Algonquin tribes that once lived in the region. The French changed the ending to "ois" in naming what became the state of Illinois. Illiniwek means "they are men" (insert grunting noises here).
- Chief Illiniwek has sparked significant controversy. Critics of the symbol claim that it is a racist stereotype, while supporters claim that it is unoffensive and is a source of pride for many students. The University is deeply divided on this issue; while some of the faculty have condemned the symbol, the administration is largely supportive of it.
- The Illini have 3 trophy games, they are as follows:
1. "Illibuck" is--or was--a turtle, destined for long life, it was hoped. But the wear and tear of traveling between Champaign-Urbana and Columbus was too much, even for a hardy marine reptile. "Illibuck" died in the spring of 1927 and his successor is now a wooden replica. Members of two junior honorary societies, Bucket and Dipper of Ohio State and Sachem of Illinois, annually meet at halftime of the Fighting Illini-Buckeye game to present the "Illibuck" trophy to last year's winning school. In the past the ritual also included the smoking of a peace pipe. The Illini gave up the "Illibuck" trophy in 2002, but not without a fight as Illinois dropped a close 23-16 loss to the No. 2 Buckeyes in overtime in Champaign. The win for Ohio State sent the team to the national title game the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, which it won over Miami (Fla.). Ohio State held on to the trophy with a 40-2 win over Illinois in 2005, after a two-year hiatus off the schedule.
2. The "Cannon," more accurately known as the Purdue Cannon, made its first trip to Champaign-Urbana in 1905 when a group of Purdue students brought it to fire after a Boilermaker victory. Purdue won the game, 29-0, but the Cannon was never fired. Illinois student Quincy Hall found the Cannon hidden near the old Illinois Field. Hall and a group of Delta Upsilon brothers confiscated the Cannon and held it until 1943 when they donated it as a symbol of the Illinois-Purdue rivalry. Tomahawk Service and Leadership honorary at Purdue and Illini Pride of Illinois maintain the trophy when the respective school has won it. The Cannon was last fired Nov. 4, 2001, at the Illinois football complex following the Illini victory. The Boilers won back the trophy in 2003 and have retained possession of it for the last three years following a 37-3 win over Illinois in 2005.
3. The "Tomahawk." The story of the Illinois-Northwestern trophy dates back to 1945 when the staff members of the two student newspapers conceived the idea of a wooden Indian trophy, "Sweet Sioux." In September 1946, "Sweet Sioux" was stolen from a showcase at Northwestern. A Tomahawk Trophy was inaugurated in 1947 to replace the wooden Indian and has been used since. "Sweet Sioux" was found in 1948, but was discarded because of its bulk. The trophy has had a three-year residence in Evanston after three straight wins in 2003, 2004, and 2005.
2. The "Cannon," more accurately known as the Purdue Cannon, made its first trip to Champaign-Urbana in 1905 when a group of Purdue students brought it to fire after a Boilermaker victory. Purdue won the game, 29-0, but the Cannon was never fired. Illinois student Quincy Hall found the Cannon hidden near the old Illinois Field. Hall and a group of Delta Upsilon brothers confiscated the Cannon and held it until 1943 when they donated it as a symbol of the Illinois-Purdue rivalry. Tomahawk Service and Leadership honorary at Purdue and Illini Pride of Illinois maintain the trophy when the respective school has won it. The Cannon was last fired Nov. 4, 2001, at the Illinois football complex following the Illini victory. The Boilers won back the trophy in 2003 and have retained possession of it for the last three years following a 37-3 win over Illinois in 2005.
3. The "Tomahawk." The story of the Illinois-Northwestern trophy dates back to 1945 when the staff members of the two student newspapers conceived the idea of a wooden Indian trophy, "Sweet Sioux." In September 1946, "Sweet Sioux" was stolen from a showcase at Northwestern. A Tomahawk Trophy was inaugurated in 1947 to replace the wooden Indian and has been used since. "Sweet Sioux" was found in 1948, but was discarded because of its bulk. The trophy has had a three-year residence in Evanston after three straight wins in 2003, 2004, and 2005.
- Shortly after the University opened in 1868, a military band was organized. The military band became the Concert Band, and gave its first formal concert in 1890. The University of Illinois Bands of today are the top of a pyramid of university band organizations, both concert and marching, which regularly enroll more than 700 students. The marching band will perform pregame and halftime shows at all seven home football games this year, as well as selected road games. The unique style of the Marching Illini has become famous, representing a combination of past traditions and exciting innovations.
- For more than 90 years, the Illinois student cheering section known as "Block-I" has remained an innovative place of fun and excitement for young Illini Football fans. Beginning in 1910, Block-I was formed as a pep club for Illinois students at home games, providing entertainment and student interaction during Illinois athletic events. In 1924, Block-I took permanent residence in the east stands of Memorial Stadium and two years later, in 1926, became a visual staple among Memorial Stadium tradition with the performance of card stunts during the games by its members. From the 1950s to the '70s, a second Block-I performed in the west balcony of the stadium, mirroring the card stunts performed in the east stands. Beginning in 2004, Block-I merged with Illini Pride, the official student support group of all Illinois' 19 varsity sports.
- Block-I is comprised of students who value old Illini traditions while embracing new ones. They can still be found trampling to the beat of the Marching Illini's "William Tell Overture." During this song the students put their arms around one another and jump up and down. With the 2006 season marking its 96th year in existence, Block-I still remains the premier seating choice among students and a true example of Loyalty, Tradition, and Pride at Illinois.
- The Chief performs the dance with the Marching Illini during a performance known as the Three-in-One. The dance has two main parts, the downfield dance and the solo dance. The Three-in-One consists of three traditional University of Illinois songs: "Pride of the Illini"; "March of the Illini"; and the Alma Mater, "Hail to the Orange". This celebrated tradition has been performed at the conclusion of virtually every halftime show in Memorial Stadium for nearly 75 years.
- The Alma Mater, "Hail to the Orange", was written by H. R. Green and Harold V. Hill and is the third part of "Three-in-One". The Marching Illini sings "Hail to the Orange" a capella in four parts to close out the afternoon after marching back to the Harding Band Building following the game and at most formal concerts. The words are as follows:
"Hail to the Orange, Hail to the Blue,
Hail Alma Mater,
Ever so true (so true).
We love no other, so let our motto be
Victory, Illinois, Varsity!"
Hail Alma Mater,
Ever so true (so true).
We love no other, so let our motto be
Victory, Illinois, Varsity!"
- After every score, the male cheerleaders do pushups that equal the score at that point in the game.
- At the conclusion of their games there is a bell that is rung for each point scored during the game.
The Lighter Side
Nine weeks in, and Ohio State stands Nine and Oh. Hard to believe that three quarters of the season is fading in the rearview mirror. Think back to 10 weeks ago. Anxious speculation. How would Ohio State replace nine starters off of a defense considered to be one of the strongest in college? While we all knew the defense would be better than the preseason talking heads were giving credit, lets be honest. If I had told you that this year's unit would be leading the nation in scoring defense, giving up just over a TD per game (last year, OSU gave up just over 2 TDs a game), would have 13 more interceptions, and would be giving up almost 15 less yards per game than the '05 squad, you'd have said I was being too optomistic. And yet, here we are. The questions have become answers. Can OSU overcome the loss of 9 outstanding defensive players? You bet. On the other side of the ball, things are proceeding as anticipated. Even a casual observer of the college game could have guessed Ohio State would be scoring about 5 TDs a game on average. The real question was, would Troy Smith beat out Brady Quinn for the Heisman. Well, that question surely has not been completely put to rest. However, aside from the occasional "in the moment overstatement" from broadcasters of Notre Dame games ("can you say Heisman?" as ND scores a TD against Navy), there is no dispute that Troy is the clear front runner. Preseason optimism has become a reality and it has been a joy to watch. Still, as great as the ride has been, the important part of the season lies ahead. As Tressel has said every year, it is imparative that you go undefeated in November. A season within a season.
You remember Rocky IV? In Rocky IV, a hulking steroid freak beats the hell out of everything he comes in contact with, inlcuding Rocky's buddy Apollo Creed. Rocky decides to fight the cheating Russian to avenge Creed's death in what could be called the make-believe boxing equivelant to Ohio State v. Michigan football. And, what does Rock-o do to prepare? Well, he sends himself off to Siberia to train in the worst conditions he can find, and one which requires him to "get back to basics" owing to the lack of appropriate resources to train a boxer. A place were he can do some one armed pushups (Hey, "style" matters), chops some wood and so on. So, it occurs to me, what would be the Rocky IV equivelant for Ohio State football in preparing for Michigan? Seems simple, send the team off to Illinois for two weeks to "get back to basics" against meager competition in modest facilities, do some one armed pushups (read: Ted Ginn, Jr.) and chop some wood (Read: work on some off-tackle runs). So, off to the Land of Lincoln we go. First up, Champaign Illinois to face the Fighting Carrots (if you've ever seen their "alternative" uniforms: orange pants, orange jerseys, orange helmets - you'll know why I call them the carrots). After that, on to Evanston.
So, what to say about Illinois? In trying to gather something to write about this week, I made some cursory visits to some Carrot message boards. I was shocked. It reminded me in a lot of ways as if Illinois was a MAC powerhouse and not a Big Ten school which went to a BCS game as recently as 2001. Some rationale:
The good MAC teams all have a great athlete who is the lone bright spot (or two) in what is otherwise a fatal lack of depth. Northern Illinois has Garrett Wolfe, BGSU once had Omar Jacobs, Miami of Ohio had Rothlisburger, and so on. Illinois has Isiah "Juice" Williams. The guys that hopeful fans rally around as "never before seen." Carrot message boards are filled ("filled" being relative to the general silence of the boards) with bold predictions of how Williams will have his "Coming out party" against Ohio State. Remember Miami of Ohio last year? Spitting image. "We will beat Ohio State, they've never seen anyone like Ryne Robinson or Terna Nande. They won't know what hit em." Well, Ohio State has seen the likes of Juice Williams before. Is he a great young talent? You bet. But, he's not Vince Young 05. Not to mention, Vince had some very good playmakers around him. Williams has a handful of toasted pastries lining up with him. Listen, Carrotboard optomistics, as talented as Williams is, he's a freshman quarterback. Exciting? Sure. Strong Arm, you bet.... maybe too strong, actually, there's something to be said for the "touch" pass you know. Enough to take a relatively bad team over the best team in the land? Not likely. Coming out party? "Sure," says the Carrot fan, "If Garret Wolfe can do it, so can Williams." I admit Wolfe did very well against Ohio State, keep in mind, Carrot fans, Wolfe - unlike Juice - is a Senior. Williams will spend most of Saturday running for his life. The rest of the time he'll spend firing 400mph fastballs 10 feet over WRs heads.
The MAC syndrome, actually, is illustrated quite nicely by Carrotboard posts, such as the following: "After we beat Ohio State ...." as if it's a foregone conclusion. "Illinois WILL beat Ohio State." Really? Why? No analysis of any kind is forthcoming. And, if you're lucky enough to get any kind of analytical offering, it goes like this: "Well, in 2002, we almost beat you guys." Never mind that 2002 was 4 years ago and has absolutley nothing to do with 2006. Another "reason" a Carrot victory is assured? Illinois beat Ohio State a bunch in the early 90s. Ummm... OK, let's play that game then. In 4 games in the mid to late 90s Ohio State outscored you 171 - 9. In fact, lets take the analysis a step further: how do I know Pittman is sure to have a career day against you? Eddie went for 314 against one of your better all-around Defenses of all time in 1995 and while Pittman is at this point not as good as Number 27 was in 1995, he's surely a lot closer to Eddie than this year's Carrot D is to that Simeon Rice lead unit. My "gut" says Pitt goes for... oh... lets' say 407, 350 of which will be gained after Troy throws his 3rd TD of the game some time early in the 2nd quarter.
More MAC syndrome? Here's classic material. While approaching a matchup against the undisputed best team in the nation as if it's already in the bag, on other threads we have bright-eyed discussion of how Illinois has "turned the corner" by beating Michigan State as if there was any question Michigan State would not be able to beat any team after blowing it against Notre Dame. But, it's actually worse than that. There are actually threads out there that, get this, consider losing to Indiana as a moral victory. Indiana?!?! Guys, this isn't 1987 and we're talking about football, not basketball. You'd think a school with a football pedigree that includes the likes of George Halas, Ray Nitschke, Red Grange and Dick Butkus that the Carrots would be absolutely disgusted that they lost to Indiana. Nope. Not these guys. Unbelievable. How do we know Illinois is "back on the map?" They "should have beat" Wisconsin, arguably the worst 8 - 1 team in the nation (Notre Dame is Wisconsin's only serious competion to such a title). I have never had occassion to be a fan of a college that finds a 2-7 record to be a turn in the right direction, so I guess I don't understand the mentality. And I sure don't get it when it's paired with a contermporaneous belief that these close losses somehow compel the result that the Carrots are now prepared to "shock the world!!1!1!" and beat Ohio State.
Finally, a favorite retort: "You better not overlook Illinois!" Tell you what, Carrotfan just as a general matter, I'm free to overlook whomever I want. See, I'm just a fan. There really isn't much I can do of consequence in preparation for Illinois. Do yourself a favor and don't set yourself up for the disappointing realization that my behavior as a fan has nothing to do with Coach Tressel's preparation of the Buckeyes to face the Carrots. But, that said, in line with my opening paragraph, I've decided I won't overlook Illinois. But, it's not because I'm worried about Juice Williams' "coming out party." It's not because I'm affraid of the meaning and implications of Illinois' success against John Cooper's early teams. It's not because I see any turn in the right direction in a loss to Indiana or even in a win over the hapless Michigan State Spartans. It's because next week, Ohio State's season will get one game closer to being over. And I plan on making the most of every instant of it, I don't care who the Buckeyes are playing. November football is what it's all about.
You remember Rocky IV? In Rocky IV, a hulking steroid freak beats the hell out of everything he comes in contact with, inlcuding Rocky's buddy Apollo Creed. Rocky decides to fight the cheating Russian to avenge Creed's death in what could be called the make-believe boxing equivelant to Ohio State v. Michigan football. And, what does Rock-o do to prepare? Well, he sends himself off to Siberia to train in the worst conditions he can find, and one which requires him to "get back to basics" owing to the lack of appropriate resources to train a boxer. A place were he can do some one armed pushups (Hey, "style" matters), chops some wood and so on. So, it occurs to me, what would be the Rocky IV equivelant for Ohio State football in preparing for Michigan? Seems simple, send the team off to Illinois for two weeks to "get back to basics" against meager competition in modest facilities, do some one armed pushups (read: Ted Ginn, Jr.) and chop some wood (Read: work on some off-tackle runs). So, off to the Land of Lincoln we go. First up, Champaign Illinois to face the Fighting Carrots (if you've ever seen their "alternative" uniforms: orange pants, orange jerseys, orange helmets - you'll know why I call them the carrots). After that, on to Evanston.
So, what to say about Illinois? In trying to gather something to write about this week, I made some cursory visits to some Carrot message boards. I was shocked. It reminded me in a lot of ways as if Illinois was a MAC powerhouse and not a Big Ten school which went to a BCS game as recently as 2001. Some rationale:
The good MAC teams all have a great athlete who is the lone bright spot (or two) in what is otherwise a fatal lack of depth. Northern Illinois has Garrett Wolfe, BGSU once had Omar Jacobs, Miami of Ohio had Rothlisburger, and so on. Illinois has Isiah "Juice" Williams. The guys that hopeful fans rally around as "never before seen." Carrot message boards are filled ("filled" being relative to the general silence of the boards) with bold predictions of how Williams will have his "Coming out party" against Ohio State. Remember Miami of Ohio last year? Spitting image. "We will beat Ohio State, they've never seen anyone like Ryne Robinson or Terna Nande. They won't know what hit em." Well, Ohio State has seen the likes of Juice Williams before. Is he a great young talent? You bet. But, he's not Vince Young 05. Not to mention, Vince had some very good playmakers around him. Williams has a handful of toasted pastries lining up with him. Listen, Carrotboard optomistics, as talented as Williams is, he's a freshman quarterback. Exciting? Sure. Strong Arm, you bet.... maybe too strong, actually, there's something to be said for the "touch" pass you know. Enough to take a relatively bad team over the best team in the land? Not likely. Coming out party? "Sure," says the Carrot fan, "If Garret Wolfe can do it, so can Williams." I admit Wolfe did very well against Ohio State, keep in mind, Carrot fans, Wolfe - unlike Juice - is a Senior. Williams will spend most of Saturday running for his life. The rest of the time he'll spend firing 400mph fastballs 10 feet over WRs heads.
The MAC syndrome, actually, is illustrated quite nicely by Carrotboard posts, such as the following: "After we beat Ohio State ...." as if it's a foregone conclusion. "Illinois WILL beat Ohio State." Really? Why? No analysis of any kind is forthcoming. And, if you're lucky enough to get any kind of analytical offering, it goes like this: "Well, in 2002, we almost beat you guys." Never mind that 2002 was 4 years ago and has absolutley nothing to do with 2006. Another "reason" a Carrot victory is assured? Illinois beat Ohio State a bunch in the early 90s. Ummm... OK, let's play that game then. In 4 games in the mid to late 90s Ohio State outscored you 171 - 9. In fact, lets take the analysis a step further: how do I know Pittman is sure to have a career day against you? Eddie went for 314 against one of your better all-around Defenses of all time in 1995 and while Pittman is at this point not as good as Number 27 was in 1995, he's surely a lot closer to Eddie than this year's Carrot D is to that Simeon Rice lead unit. My "gut" says Pitt goes for... oh... lets' say 407, 350 of which will be gained after Troy throws his 3rd TD of the game some time early in the 2nd quarter.
More MAC syndrome? Here's classic material. While approaching a matchup against the undisputed best team in the nation as if it's already in the bag, on other threads we have bright-eyed discussion of how Illinois has "turned the corner" by beating Michigan State as if there was any question Michigan State would not be able to beat any team after blowing it against Notre Dame. But, it's actually worse than that. There are actually threads out there that, get this, consider losing to Indiana as a moral victory. Indiana?!?! Guys, this isn't 1987 and we're talking about football, not basketball. You'd think a school with a football pedigree that includes the likes of George Halas, Ray Nitschke, Red Grange and Dick Butkus that the Carrots would be absolutely disgusted that they lost to Indiana. Nope. Not these guys. Unbelievable. How do we know Illinois is "back on the map?" They "should have beat" Wisconsin, arguably the worst 8 - 1 team in the nation (Notre Dame is Wisconsin's only serious competion to such a title). I have never had occassion to be a fan of a college that finds a 2-7 record to be a turn in the right direction, so I guess I don't understand the mentality. And I sure don't get it when it's paired with a contermporaneous belief that these close losses somehow compel the result that the Carrots are now prepared to "shock the world!!1!1!" and beat Ohio State.
Finally, a favorite retort: "You better not overlook Illinois!" Tell you what, Carrotfan just as a general matter, I'm free to overlook whomever I want. See, I'm just a fan. There really isn't much I can do of consequence in preparation for Illinois. Do yourself a favor and don't set yourself up for the disappointing realization that my behavior as a fan has nothing to do with Coach Tressel's preparation of the Buckeyes to face the Carrots. But, that said, in line with my opening paragraph, I've decided I won't overlook Illinois. But, it's not because I'm worried about Juice Williams' "coming out party." It's not because I'm affraid of the meaning and implications of Illinois' success against John Cooper's early teams. It's not because I see any turn in the right direction in a loss to Indiana or even in a win over the hapless Michigan State Spartans. It's because next week, Ohio State's season will get one game closer to being over. And I plan on making the most of every instant of it, I don't care who the Buckeyes are playing. November football is what it's all about.
Historical Data
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) Founded in 1867
Football 1st Season: 1890
Stadium: Memorial Stadium
Constructed: 1923 (Current renovation to be completed 2008)
Seating Capacity: 69,249
Playing Surface: AstroPlay
Conference: Independent 1890, Illinois Intercollegiate Football League 1891-1895, Big Ten Conference since 1896
Colors: Orange and Blue
Mascot: Chief Illiniwek
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 42 Big Ten Titles: 1910*, 1914, 1915*, 1918*, 1919, 1923*, 1927, 1928, 1946, 1951, 1953*, 1963, 1983, 1990*, 2001 (*=Co-Champions)
Consensus All-Americans: 23 (18 different players as of 2004)
College Hall-of-Famers: 15
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 6 (Dick Butkus, Harold ?Red? Grange, George Halas, Bobby Mitchell, Ray Nitschke, Hugh ?Shorty? Ray)
Award Winners: 2 Butkus Awards, 1 Butkus Silver Ann., 1 Walter Camp COY, 1 Sammy Baugh Trophy
National Championships: 4 Recognized National Championships - 1914, 1919, 1923, 1927
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-12 years, Coaches-12 years
Stadium: Memorial Stadium
Constructed: 1923 (Current renovation to be completed 2008)
Seating Capacity: 69,249
Playing Surface: AstroPlay
Conference: Independent 1890, Illinois Intercollegiate Football League 1891-1895, Big Ten Conference since 1896
Colors: Orange and Blue
Mascot: Chief Illiniwek
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 42 Big Ten Titles: 1910*, 1914, 1915*, 1918*, 1919, 1923*, 1927, 1928, 1946, 1951, 1953*, 1963, 1983, 1990*, 2001 (*=Co-Champions)
Consensus All-Americans: 23 (18 different players as of 2004)
College Hall-of-Famers: 15
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 6 (Dick Butkus, Harold ?Red? Grange, George Halas, Bobby Mitchell, Ray Nitschke, Hugh ?Shorty? Ray)
Award Winners: 2 Butkus Awards, 1 Butkus Silver Ann., 1 Walter Camp COY, 1 Sammy Baugh Trophy
National Championships: 4 Recognized National Championships - 1914, 1919, 1923, 1927
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-12 years, Coaches-12 years
Records
All Time: 544-493-49 (.523)
Bowl Games: 6-8-0 (.429) Most recently a 34-47 loss to LSU in the 2002 Sugar Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 316-354-31 (.473) versus teams with conference membership at time of game.
All Time vs the Ohio State Buckeyes: 29-59-4 (.337) The most recent meeting was a 40 to 2 loss to the Bucks in Columbus in 2005.
Coach's Reord: Ron Zook, 2005, 2-9-0 (.182), 4 year career mark of 25-23-0 (.521)
Last Season: 2-9-0 (.182)
W - Rutgers (33-30)
W - San Jose St. (40-19)
L - California (20-35)
L - Michigan St. (14-61)
L - Iowa (7-35)
L - Indiana (13-36)
L - Penn St. (10-63)
L - Wisconsin (24-41)
L - Ohio State (2-40)
L - Purdue (3-37)
L - Northwestern (21-38)
Last 5 Years: 21-37-0 (.362)
Last 10 Years: 39-75-0 (.342)
Bowl Games: 6-8-0 (.429) Most recently a 34-47 loss to LSU in the 2002 Sugar Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 316-354-31 (.473) versus teams with conference membership at time of game.
All Time vs the Ohio State Buckeyes: 29-59-4 (.337) The most recent meeting was a 40 to 2 loss to the Bucks in Columbus in 2005.
Coach's Reord: Ron Zook, 2005, 2-9-0 (.182), 4 year career mark of 25-23-0 (.521)
Last Season: 2-9-0 (.182)
W - Rutgers (33-30)
W - San Jose St. (40-19)
L - California (20-35)
L - Michigan St. (14-61)
L - Iowa (7-35)
L - Indiana (13-36)
L - Penn St. (10-63)
L - Wisconsin (24-41)
L - Ohio State (2-40)
L - Purdue (3-37)
L - Northwestern (21-38)
Last 5 Years: 21-37-0 (.362)
Last 10 Years: 39-75-0 (.342)
Links
Official Sites:
Official School Site - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Student Newspaper - Daily Illini
Official Athletic Site - Fighting Illini
Official Conference Site - Big Ten Conference
Message Boards & Team Pages:
Message Boards - Illini Board (Scout)
Message Boards - Orange & Blue News (Rivals)
Team Page - ESPN
Team Page - USA Today
Team Page - Fox Sports
Team Page - CNN/SI
Team Page - CFN
Team Page - CBS Sportsline
Team Page - Yahoo Sports
Local News Sources:
Chicago Tribune - Local News
Chicago Sun Times - Local News
News-Gazette - Local News
Quad City Times - Local News
Team Previews and Breakdowns:
ILLINOIS Team Report (01/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (02/03/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (03/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (04/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (04/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/02/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/27/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (07/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (07/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/06/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/14/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/26/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/01/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/15/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
Prospectus, Rosters & Other Info.:
2006 Roster - Fighting Illinois
2006 Spring Outlook - Fighting Illinois
2006 News Releases - Fighting Illinois
2006 Big Ten Spring Looks - CFN
2006 Big Ten Spring Storylines - CFN
2006 Preview - CFN
2006 Preview - Offense - CFN
2006 Preview - Defense - CFN
2006 Preview - Further Analysis - CFN
2006 Preview - Depth Chart - CFN
2006 Preview - Football.com
2006 Preview - Athlon
2006 Preview - CNN/SI
2006 Preview - The Ozone
Travel:
Gameday Information (PDF) - Fighting Illioni.com
Big Ten:
2006 Big Ten Spring Prospectus (PDF) - Big Ten
2006 Big Ten Composite Schedule (PDF) - Big Ten
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Rivals
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Terry Bowden
Big Ten Preview - CFN
Big Ten Preview - CFN All-Big Ten Team
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Unit Rankings
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Five Best
Big Ten Preview - CSTV
Big Ten Preview - College Football Poll
Big Ten Preview - Football.com
Big Ten Preview - The Sports Network
Big Ten Preview - Just College Football
Big Ten Preview - The Sporting News
Big Ten Preview - The Ozone
Official School Site - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Student Newspaper - Daily Illini
Official Athletic Site - Fighting Illini
Official Conference Site - Big Ten Conference
Message Boards & Team Pages:
Message Boards - Illini Board (Scout)
Message Boards - Orange & Blue News (Rivals)
Team Page - ESPN
Team Page - USA Today
Team Page - Fox Sports
Team Page - CNN/SI
Team Page - CFN
Team Page - CBS Sportsline
Team Page - Yahoo Sports
Local News Sources:
Chicago Tribune - Local News
Chicago Sun Times - Local News
News-Gazette - Local News
Quad City Times - Local News
Team Previews and Breakdowns:
ILLINOIS Team Report (01/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (02/03/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (03/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (04/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (04/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/02/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (05/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/27/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (06/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (07/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (07/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (08/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/06/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/14/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (09/26/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/01/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/15/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
ILLINOIS Team Report (10/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
Prospectus, Rosters & Other Info.:
2006 Roster - Fighting Illinois
2006 Spring Outlook - Fighting Illinois
2006 News Releases - Fighting Illinois
2006 Big Ten Spring Looks - CFN
2006 Big Ten Spring Storylines - CFN
2006 Preview - CFN
2006 Preview - Offense - CFN
2006 Preview - Defense - CFN
2006 Preview - Further Analysis - CFN
2006 Preview - Depth Chart - CFN
2006 Preview - Football.com
2006 Preview - Athlon
2006 Preview - CNN/SI
2006 Preview - The Ozone
Travel:
Gameday Information (PDF) - Fighting Illioni.com
Big Ten:
2006 Big Ten Spring Prospectus (PDF) - Big Ten
2006 Big Ten Composite Schedule (PDF) - Big Ten
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Rivals
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Terry Bowden
Big Ten Preview - CFN
Big Ten Preview - CFN All-Big Ten Team
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Unit Rankings
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Five Best
Big Ten Preview - CSTV
Big Ten Preview - College Football Poll
Big Ten Preview - Football.com
Big Ten Preview - The Sports Network
Big Ten Preview - Just College Football
Big Ten Preview - The Sporting News
Big Ten Preview - The Ozone
Preseason Rankings
None
Preseason Watch Lists
2006 Rimington Award - Watch List (Boomer Esiason Foundation/Cystic Fibrosis Foundation/Canon)
Matt Maddox
2006 Lou Groza Award - Watch List (FedEx Orange Bowl and the Palm Beach Co. Sports Commission)
Jason Reda
2006 Butkus Award - Watch List (Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando)
J Leman
2006 Doak Walker Award - Watch List (SMU Athletic Forum)
Pierre Thomas
Matt Maddox
2006 Lou Groza Award - Watch List (FedEx Orange Bowl and the Palm Beach Co. Sports Commission)
Jason Reda
2006 Butkus Award - Watch List (Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando)
J Leman
2006 Doak Walker Award - Watch List (SMU Athletic Forum)
Pierre Thomas
Big Ten Conference Players of the Week
Sept. 2, 2006 (Week 1)
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Alex Daniels, Minnesota, and QB Troy Smith, Ohio State
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: TE/FB - Erryn Cobb, Northwestern, and LB - Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin
Sept. 9, 2006 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: WR - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - James Laurinaitis, Ohio State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - A.J. Trapasso, Ohio State
Sept. 16, 2006 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Prescott Burgess, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Aaron Pettrey, Ohio State
Sept. 23, 2006 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State & P - Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
Sept. 30, 2006 (Week 5)
OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Jason Reda, Illinois
Oct. 7, 2006 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State and RB - P.J. Hill, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - Mike Sherels, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: RB - Marcus Thigpen, Indiana
Oct. 14, 2006 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana & QB - Curtis Painter, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - LaMarr Woodley, Michigan
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
Oct. 21, 2006 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Stanton, Michigan State & QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State
CO-DEFENSE: CB - Antonio Smith, Ohio State & LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Oct. 28, 2006 (Week 9)
OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Taylor Mehlhaff, Wisconsin
Nov. 4, 2006 (Week 10)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 11, 2006 (Week 11)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 18, 2006 (Week 12)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 25, 2006 (Week 13)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Alex Daniels, Minnesota, and QB Troy Smith, Ohio State
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: TE/FB - Erryn Cobb, Northwestern, and LB - Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin
Sept. 9, 2006 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: WR - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - James Laurinaitis, Ohio State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - A.J. Trapasso, Ohio State
Sept. 16, 2006 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Prescott Burgess, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Aaron Pettrey, Ohio State
Sept. 23, 2006 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State & P - Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
Sept. 30, 2006 (Week 5)
OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Jason Reda, Illinois
Oct. 7, 2006 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State and RB - P.J. Hill, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - Mike Sherels, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: RB - Marcus Thigpen, Indiana
Oct. 14, 2006 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana & QB - Curtis Painter, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - LaMarr Woodley, Michigan
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
Oct. 21, 2006 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Stanton, Michigan State & QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State
CO-DEFENSE: CB - Antonio Smith, Ohio State & LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Oct. 28, 2006 (Week 9)
OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Taylor Mehlhaff, Wisconsin
Nov. 4, 2006 (Week 10)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 11, 2006 (Week 11)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 18, 2006 (Week 12)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 25, 2006 (Week 13)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Note: Statistical data was complied using a variety of sources, including:
Stassen (Chris Stassen) - Data
College Football Data Warehouse - Data
Two Cousins College Football Emporium - Data
American College Football-RSFC (Dave Wilson) - Data
D1A Football (Formerly WALJ 10 College Football) - Data
National Champs.net - Data
Hickok Sports - Data
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