bigjim: It is much too early to try to form conclusions on the advantages provided by the new assistant coaches. There is talk that Schultz will emphasize running the ball, but it should be noted that in 2006 and 2007, Locksley's unit led the Big Ten in rushing. As for the firing of Tom Sims, it was a shocker when it happened because the D-line appeared strong. It does not appear that strong now with Walker, Lundquist and Davis gone, and Josh Brent uncertain. But in the final analysis, two weeks of spring drills don't tell us much. Jim and Loren

Are you the real Larry Harnly????
We can't predict anything about the NCAA tournament. The first problem is qualifying. By the second round, you're playing somebody at least as good and probably better.
Tisdale is a center. He can't play anywhere else, and certainly would never be asked to guard a small forward.
Simpson is raw and we'll see how he looks in six months. Weber probably isn't expecting a lot that soon. Loren and Jim

Tom: Rod Cardinal is still very active with the program. He is particularly good at keeping close contact with basketball alumni, and has played a big role in coordinating the reunions. He is respected by everyone. Jim and Loren

Mike: We didn't see it. We were in Champaign for the marathon. But it appears that both upcoming sophomores, Leshoure and Ford, are making great strides at running back, and Juice had a good, solid game. But our only information is what we were told. Jim and Loren

Dave: Jim favors tennis, having been a championship player himself. Mine are baseball and softball, which I enjoyed playing. Loren

Elise: Basically, as I always do, I was given assignments and tried to carry them out. No, the most I ever ran was 10 miles, and I'd never do that again. Jim once drove his car 26 miles, but got very tired. He has, though, done some 100-mile bike rides. I biked to Monticello once with Jim, and I called my wife to come and pick me up while he biked back to Champaign.
My actual response is that, if assigned, I will respond. If not assigned, there are many other things I would rather do. Loren

Ubben: I like Sanni a lot. He is rangy and mobile, and an excellent prospect. Hardeman has been out there and is working out (not involved in contact) as though he expects to play in the fall. Wilson is competing for the corner opposite Hicks, and has a chance. Ashante Williams is very much in the mix. Except for Hicks, nothing has been decided yet. It's like the linebacker positions. We'll know more in the next two weeks. Loren and Jim

Ubben: There are three things that need to be improved on from last year:
1. Reduce turnovers, especially interceptions.
2. Become less passive on pass defense, thereby preventing opposing quarterbacks from repeatedly completing simple, short passes on third down.
3. Improve special teams to a point where the Illini at least break even in that departrment.
Of course, the Illini would like to have Wilson, Brent and Hardeman playing well because they are special talents. As Zook noted, they'll be using five defensive backs and two linebackers much of the time. That could mean that Thomas and Wilson are in there a lot together. The defense is still in the formative stages. Loren

Dan: The reports from those who participated indicate that the marathon was a huge success from a planning and execution standpoint. Many runners expressed satisfaction from the number of people volunteered and watched them. The only negative we heard was the difficulty some people had in getting around the city in their cars. Marathon officials indicate that they'll work on these problems before next year. Jim

Robert: The move of Wilson at middle linebacker is still in the experimental stage, and is being done because he might be the best at that position. Remember, Leman and Miller weren't always middle backers, but excelled as upper classmen. There are those who agree with you about Wilson being overmatched, but that doesn't mean you and they are necessarily correct. He was, after all, the team's No. 3 tackler, and may yet be what they need at middle linebacker. It is worth the trial to find out. Loren