Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:59 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
We're back for another chat. There are a bunch of questions to get to, so I'm going to start a few minutes early.
We will do a postgame chat after the Illinois-Ohio State game. I'll set up a time next week, but it will probably be similar to what we did after Missouri.
Terry from Davenport, ia — 12:59 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob...I've about concluded, reluctantly, that Ron Zook just does not have it in him to be a successful coach. Has this thought crossed your mind too?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:03 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Terry,
Honestly, I think that question crosses your mind with every coach. Heck, there is even a Web site devoted to firing Jim Tressel. So, every coach hears it at one point or another.
In Ron Zook's case, he had the impossible task of following Steve Spurrier at Florida. A no-win situation.
At Illinois, he has a much better situation. Patient fans and administration, a good tradition and a state loaded with talent. It's his job to make it work. There's no question he has upgraded the program. Do I agree with every decision he makes? Of course not. But I think you would find that with any coach, even the ones we consider geniuses.
Mike from La Salle, IL — 01:03 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
During the week it was stated that Cordale Scott was going to see a lot of action at receiver. I don't recall seeing him play at all. Was there a change of plans? Also, I thought the defense played very well in the first half. Good enough to shut out Illinois State. It seemed the defense got cocky in the second half and just sat on the lead instead of playing hard. What is your opinion?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:05 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Mike,
I don't know what happened with Cordale Scott. He didn't get on the field as much as it was promised. Sometimes, coaches change their minds. Or the situation dictates a change. Let's see what is done with Cordale in the coming weeks.
On defense, I think it's human nature to have a bit of a letdown when you have a big lead. I think that's what happened some. And I also think the players made some mistakes. That happens. You are right that the defense had a good first half. It's funny, but I don't think Ohio State will throw as well against Illinois as Illinois State did.
IlliniNationsCapital from Washington, DC — 01:06 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Two somewhat-former Illini questions: Former DT D'Angelo McCray transferred to Coffeyville Junior College in Kansas but ultimately wants to transfer to a big-time school. What is the precentage chance D'Angelo is ever an Illini again? Also, what is the update on Patrick Nixon? Is he back on the roster and if so, does he have a chance to contribute this year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:07 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
IlliniNationsCapital,
I don't see any way that D'Angelo McCray returns here. I would put the percentage at zero. Bridge burned.
Patrick Nixon-Youman has told the coaches he is ready to get back at it. I think he has a chance to contribute this season. We'll see.
Ken from Urbana, IL — 01:07 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
after 2 weeks, would have to say the defense is still a concern.
Anything to help us feel better?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:08 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Ken,
The defense remains a concern for the coaches. They weren't satisfied with the performance in the first two games.
That being said, there have been some bright spots: Doug Pilcher, Corey Liuget, Ian Thomas and Garrett Edwards to name a few. The line is playing well.
Ken from Champaign, IL — 01:08 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
you know why we didnt sub more late in the game on Saturday?
Zook trying to get them to play hard?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:09 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Ken,
Great question. I think having the week off made him want to push the starters a bit more.
I was puzzled by Illinois not playing Jacob Charest. I expected him to get in late.
Darrel from Urbana, IL — 01:09 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Did Hawthorne play much Saturday?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:10 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Darrel,
He played quite a bit on special teams, but not as much on defense. It sounds like he is back at corner, which is a more crowded position right now than safety.
christina from champaign, illinois — 01:11 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Any chance Zook an Co realize the Ohio State secondary is very vulnerable and Benn and Fayson should be able to burn them all night? Hope so because the way our secondary is looking this might turn into a shootout!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:11 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Christina,
Fayson has looked very good in the first two games and Arrelious Benn is due to get it started. I would think they will both have big games at Ohio State.
zach from champaign, Illinois — 01:11 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Any chance Illinois gets Penn State under the lights if we win at The Ohio State the 26th? I hope it's not an 11 o'clock start!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:13 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Zach,
Looking at the schedule, I'm guessing it will be at 2:30 on ABC. I don't think the game will be at 11. Penn State is very popular with ABC.
Dan from Champaign, IL — 01:14 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
1) Is there a way to a see a re-run of the Sunday show? missed Sundays
2) Is CBS pretty much out of college football now that the SEC has gone to ESPN? or maybe it was just last week
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Dan,
I think you might be able to see Inside Illini on WAND's Web site. I'll check and also see if we can have it available on HQ.
CBS still has SEC games. It has Tennessee-Florida this week. I think CBS will continue to have the SEC into the future, but ESPN has more of the league's games than in the past.
Marcus from Monument, CO — 01:15 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
How much control does Ron Zook have over the schedule? I know it is probably not much for conf. games but what about the bye weeks and non-conf. games?
Our does not set up for building success. We need some easier games 2 or 3 before we get to conf. play.
Marcus
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:16 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Marcus,
I think Ron Zook gets to share his opinion on the nonconference games. The Missouri thing was done, but he was told about it. I think he was the one who wanted to skip this Saturday and have a game later in the season. If the team qualifies for a bowl, it will have been a really good decision.
Kraemer from Paris, IL — 01:17 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
It was a much needed win for the Illini, but it was also a good showing for the Redbirds, and the sad part is that based off of overall athleticism and talent it shouldn't have been. During the post game interview, I heard Zook say that they were going to work on getting better in the secondary during the off week. Considering ISU's redshirt freshman Matt Brown, making his first collegiate start in a hostile Big Ten atmosphere, threw for 312 yards and 2 tds I can certainly understand why. Then I read an article that quoted Zook as saying this bye week will be used to improve tackling in the secondary. While it's always good to work on tackling, I don't think that is the real issue here which leads me to my question; when is the coverage going to tighten up?
It's becoming glaringly obvious that the "don't give up a big play" philosophy that Zook employs is the reason behind most of the issues in the secondary. Personally, I am getting tired of watching them get nickel and dimed all the way to end zone.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:19 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Kraemer,
Your thoughts are echoed by a lot of Illinois fans. But I don't think you can expect Ron Zook to change his base philosophy on defense. Don't get beat deep means there will be some openings in front of the defense.
It isn't just Illinois that is getting nickled and dimed. Across the country, schools are allowing teams to catch the ball and then shut it down. Maybe it's the way they feel it works the best against the spread.
J-Ran from Champaign, Illinois — 01:19 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob, love the chats. In my opinion, Ron Zook has failed to take advantage of the recruiting window of opportunity. We're seeing fewer and fewer top prospects in his recruiting classes and I don't think he can sell the program to kids with the "You can be on the ground floor of turning this thing around," like he used with Arrelious Benn and Co. That sell just isn't going to work anymore. To me, this is a 5-7 team for five more seasons. Thoughts?
Also, give me your score prediction for NIU at Purdue.
Thanks.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:20 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
J-Ran,
The current coaches won't be allowed to have too many more 5-7s. I think you make some good points about recruiting. What Illinois needs to continue the recruiting is to have success on the field and to be able to say, "Help us keep this going."
Purdue looked very good in its first two games, but Northern Illinois played well in a loss at Wisconsin. Boilermakers in a close game.
Disgruntled Fireworks Enthusiast from Boomtown, USA — 01:21 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
"Barb Hartman, Milan, IL: Why weren't there any fireworks after we scored? I hope that tradition has not been discontinued !
Moderator: Barb: It's the cost. They saved $20,000 by not using the fireworks. Jim and Loren"
This question was posed in Jim and Loren's chat yesterday and the answer actually bothered me a little bit so I thought about the actual situation. Yes, I understand the economy is down, but the horseshoe sold out it's season ticket allotment, and by all accounts it sure looked like the sidelines and student sections were very full. While I go to the games for the actual game itself, there are some that just go for the atmosphere including my wife. Am I to believe that Illinois is pinching pennies this tightly? If so, what is the justification?
They charge horseshoe season ticket holders 77$ a seat, and I know the sidelines are much more(in the 200+ range), but for the sake of this argument let's break it down as follows: (announced) 62,000 fans at the ISU game x 77$ (at horseshoe rates which we know isn't the case because sidelines are more expensive and student tickets I assume are cheaper plus the walkups which went for 25 bucks at face) = $4,774,000 revenue for the entire season. Almost 5 million dollars and that figure isn't actual because of the above mentioned factors (walkups at face 25-60$, higher sideline rates, etc.) + higher attendance for Big Ten games especially Penn State and Michigan + parking at 20 bucks a car + I-Fund donations + overpriced concessions, and they are skimping on 20k in fireworks for 6 home games? By my count, if they only spent that money on fireworks they could fund 238.7 games or roughly almost 40 years of playing 6 home games a season.
Sorry Barb, I guess the fireworks will have to be saved for the post game shows when the Illinois defense keeps allowing opponents to run up the score or the offensive coordinator doesn't call plays to get Benn the ball.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:23 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Disgruntled,
That is awesome research. You need to come work at The News-Gazette.
I think the fireworks need to come back. You're right that $20k seems like a drop in the bucket. I'm surprised it costs that much, honestly.
I'm guessing a fireworks company might trade fireworks for a free ad on the scoreboard. Thus, no $20k spent.
Steve from Decatur, Illinois — 01:24 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
This is perhaps a bit off topic, but what happened to the fireworks after a touchdown at Memorial? I only ask because I was with some kids at the game last weekend and it was the first time I can remember that there were no fireworks and one of the few times there was no flyover. Shall I blame the economy for this too?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:24 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Steve,
I'm going to check before the Penn State game and see if the fireworks will return.
You can always call or write the athletic department to voice your concerns.
Al Ryle from Champaign, Il. — 01:24 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
The db's soft coverage of opponents wide receivors is allowing seven yards anytime they throw it. It isn't working at all. YAOUR THOUGHTS?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:26 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Al Ryle,
It seems like the coverage is a problem for the Illinois defense. When a good passing team plays Illinois (Minnesota, Penn State, Michigan) it could be a real problem. But I don't think Illinois is going to change its defensive philosophy. It is simply going to ask the players to perform better.
Geno from Springfield, Illinois — 01:26 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
I don't think I've ever seen as many flags for penalties on the Illini as I saw last Saturday. Should I take that as another sign that this team isn't coached well or is it more a symptom of a penalty-happy officiating crew?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:27 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Geno,
Don't blame the officials for the penalties. They all seemed good to me. Of course, I'm a fan of the officials.
More likely, it was excited players trying to have a big first home game. Hard to blame them for that.
Let's see what happens with penalties the next three weeks.
First Aid from Urbana, Illinois — 01:27 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
How come the dang trainers don't never tell people what's going on? We have a right to know if these guys we pay to watch are gonna play!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:28 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
First aid,
There are some privacy issues involved, but I think the players have the right to allow the information out. I don't know why they don't. I agree that you should be allowed to know. We don't hold the information back.
Stan from Springfield, Illinois — 01:28 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Any idea why Charest didn't get in the game Saturday? I saw him warming up several times but he never came in, not even to hand the ball off in the last couple of series. Whether they think he's going to compete for the starting job next year or not, it makes some sense to at least let him get his feet wet in a game like that, don't you think? Thanks to our crazy schedule I don't see many other opportunities for him.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:30 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Stan,
I asked Ron Zook on Sunday and he said there were no plans to play him. With a sidelined starter, wouldn't you want to see the No. 3 guy on the field just in case? Apparently, the Illinois coaches didn't think it was important.
You're right, there aren't many more obvious chances for him to play.
Rick from Albion, Illinois — 01:30 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
I know Eddie needs reps but why do you think that Zook didn't give Charest at least a series...
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:30 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Rick,
Ron Zook said he wanted to see Eddie for the length of the game. It doesn't sound like playing Jacob was a priority.
Jason from New Lenox, IL — 01:31 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
This team hasn't had competent safeties since Mitchell and Harrison, two guys who came in under Turner. The safeties this staff has played since then have not showed any improvement. At what point will Curt Mallory be held responsible for this?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:32 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Jason,
All of the defensive coaches are held responsible for the problems in the secondary. While Coach Mallory has the major input in who plays, he didn't recruit all of the guys and he has help in determing the lineup.
Honestly, the coaches knew they had issues in the secondary going into the season, but they are hopeful it can get worked out.
James from Shelbyville, il — 01:33 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob,
Let's see. Soft or no pass coverage, missed tackles, so-so pass rush, mindless penalties against a division 1-AA team doesn't bode well for a very successful season. On the positive side good job pass blocking by the offensive line as Eddie had decent time to pass or so it seemed. Let's hope Juice can get things going when he gets back but I have never been very comfortable with him at the QB.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:33 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
James,
Like you, I'm curious about what's going to happen in the future. The team will be soundly tested the next month. And beyond.
Auggie from Kansas City, MO — 01:33 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
why are you ignoring questions during your live chats during games?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:35 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Auggie,
Sorry if I've made this confusing, but the live chats don't start until after the game is over and I'm bad in the press box and done with interviews. The time on last week's chat was 10:30 p.m. It will start no later than that time and sooner if possible. But because of my responsibilities for the paper and HQ, it would be difficult to do the chat during the game.
I'll talk with Jim Rossow and see if he wants me to do that in the future. It's possible. But the first two weeks, we didn't intend for the chats to start until about one hour after the game.
Jose from Champaign, IL — 01:36 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Right now, Illinois' pass coverage is as erratic as Kanye West at an awards ceremony. Illinois' defense is designed to protect against the big plays by giving the opposing receivers a cushion. But, we are still seeing big plays. Absent improvement in this area, why not switch to a gambling defense?
Matt from Chicago, IL — 01:36 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
What can be done to fix the problems in the secondary? It seems like teams can (and do) throw at will. Is it the schemes? Personel? Lack of a pass rush? It needs to be fixed or else it could be a long year
Jake from Chicago, IL — 01:36 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Bob- How many times are we going to hear the question, "Why won't the corners play closer so there isn't a 10-15 yard cushion given to the WR?" before there is actually something done about it. I understand that Zook does not want to give up the big play. To me it seems like he is either too stubborn or does not have the kind of football IQ required in a big time head coach to win on the big stage. It's that or he has no confidence in the athleticism of his players. He will forever be dubbed a bad coach and good recruiter until he succeeds on a consistent basis. Look at the great coaches in college football. They are all innovative with their schemes. This not only allows them to utilize the talent that they have specifically, but also keeps the opposition guessing and hinders their game planning. Why does he refuse to make adjustments other than, "Juice is going to run more or throw downfield." He is a walking cliche. Do you see any creativity coming from the coaching staff?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:39 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Jake, Matt and Jose,
I thought I'd hit the secondary questions all at once.
First, fans and players love gambling defenses. They provide turnovers, sacks and fun. But coaches hate gambling defenses. They want to be sound. And they hate big plays.
Maybe the answer is somewhere in between. Gamble at times, when it's least expected. And play less aggressively at other times. Mix it up. That seems to make the most sense. What they are doing now isn't working. They've got two weeks to make changes that will improve the overall effort. That will show us how creative they are.
Steve from Champaign Co, IL — 01:40 PM on Tue, 09/15/2009
Just a simple answer - who has Zook lost most credibility with, and why: key 2010 recruits, the media, fans buying tickets, Guenther, the team, major boo$ters?
We're back for another chat. There are a bunch of questions to get to, so I'm going to start a few minutes early.
We will do a postgame chat after the Illinois-Ohio State game. I'll set up a time next week, but it will probably be similar to what we did after Missouri.
Bob...I've about concluded, reluctantly, that Ron Zook just does not have it in him to be a successful coach. Has this thought crossed your mind too?
Terry,
Honestly, I think that question crosses your mind with every coach. Heck, there is even a Web site devoted to firing Jim Tressel. So, every coach hears it at one point or another.
In Ron Zook's case, he had the impossible task of following Steve Spurrier at Florida. A no-win situation.
At Illinois, he has a much better situation. Patient fans and administration, a good tradition and a state loaded with talent. It's his job to make it work. There's no question he has upgraded the program. Do I agree with every decision he makes? Of course not. But I think you would find that with any coach, even the ones we consider geniuses.
During the week it was stated that Cordale Scott was going to see a lot of action at receiver. I don't recall seeing him play at all. Was there a change of plans? Also, I thought the defense played very well in the first half. Good enough to shut out Illinois State. It seemed the defense got cocky in the second half and just sat on the lead instead of playing hard. What is your opinion?
Mike,
I don't know what happened with Cordale Scott. He didn't get on the field as much as it was promised. Sometimes, coaches change their minds. Or the situation dictates a change. Let's see what is done with Cordale in the coming weeks.
On defense, I think it's human nature to have a bit of a letdown when you have a big lead. I think that's what happened some. And I also think the players made some mistakes. That happens. You are right that the defense had a good first half. It's funny, but I don't think Ohio State will throw as well against Illinois as Illinois State did.
Two somewhat-former Illini questions: Former DT D'Angelo McCray transferred to Coffeyville Junior College in Kansas but ultimately wants to transfer to a big-time school. What is the precentage chance D'Angelo is ever an Illini again? Also, what is the update on Patrick Nixon? Is he back on the roster and if so, does he have a chance to contribute this year?
IlliniNationsCapital,
I don't see any way that D'Angelo McCray returns here. I would put the percentage at zero. Bridge burned.
Patrick Nixon-Youman has told the coaches he is ready to get back at it. I think he has a chance to contribute this season. We'll see.
Bob,
after 2 weeks, would have to say the defense is still a concern.
Anything to help us feel better?
Ken,
The defense remains a concern for the coaches. They weren't satisfied with the performance in the first two games.
That being said, there have been some bright spots: Doug Pilcher, Corey Liuget, Ian Thomas and Garrett Edwards to name a few. The line is playing well.
Bob,
you know why we didnt sub more late in the game on Saturday?
Zook trying to get them to play hard?
Ken,
Great question. I think having the week off made him want to push the starters a bit more.
I was puzzled by Illinois not playing Jacob Charest. I expected him to get in late.
Did Hawthorne play much Saturday?
Darrel,
He played quite a bit on special teams, but not as much on defense. It sounds like he is back at corner, which is a more crowded position right now than safety.
Any chance Zook an Co realize the Ohio State secondary is very vulnerable and Benn and Fayson should be able to burn them all night? Hope so because the way our secondary is looking this might turn into a shootout!
Christina,
Fayson has looked very good in the first two games and Arrelious Benn is due to get it started. I would think they will both have big games at Ohio State.
Any chance Illinois gets Penn State under the lights if we win at The Ohio State the 26th? I hope it's not an 11 o'clock start!
Zach,
Looking at the schedule, I'm guessing it will be at 2:30 on ABC. I don't think the game will be at 11. Penn State is very popular with ABC.
Bob,
1) Is there a way to a see a re-run of the Sunday show? missed Sundays
2) Is CBS pretty much out of college football now that the SEC has gone to ESPN? or maybe it was just last week
Dan,
I think you might be able to see Inside Illini on WAND's Web site. I'll check and also see if we can have it available on HQ.
CBS still has SEC games. It has Tennessee-Florida this week. I think CBS will continue to have the SEC into the future, but ESPN has more of the league's games than in the past.
Bob,
How much control does Ron Zook have over the schedule? I know it is probably not much for conf. games but what about the bye weeks and non-conf. games?
Our does not set up for building success. We need some easier games 2 or 3 before we get to conf. play.
Marcus
Marcus,
I think Ron Zook gets to share his opinion on the nonconference games. The Missouri thing was done, but he was told about it. I think he was the one who wanted to skip this Saturday and have a game later in the season. If the team qualifies for a bowl, it will have been a really good decision.
It was a much needed win for the Illini, but it was also a good showing for the Redbirds, and the sad part is that based off of overall athleticism and talent it shouldn't have been. During the post game interview, I heard Zook say that they were going to work on getting better in the secondary during the off week. Considering ISU's redshirt freshman Matt Brown, making his first collegiate start in a hostile Big Ten atmosphere, threw for 312 yards and 2 tds I can certainly understand why. Then I read an article that quoted Zook as saying this bye week will be used to improve tackling in the secondary. While it's always good to work on tackling, I don't think that is the real issue here which leads me to my question; when is the coverage going to tighten up?
It's becoming glaringly obvious that the "don't give up a big play" philosophy that Zook employs is the reason behind most of the issues in the secondary. Personally, I am getting tired of watching them get nickel and dimed all the way to end zone.
Kraemer,
Your thoughts are echoed by a lot of Illinois fans. But I don't think you can expect Ron Zook to change his base philosophy on defense. Don't get beat deep means there will be some openings in front of the defense.
It isn't just Illinois that is getting nickled and dimed. Across the country, schools are allowing teams to catch the ball and then shut it down. Maybe it's the way they feel it works the best against the spread.
Bob, love the chats. In my opinion, Ron Zook has failed to take advantage of the recruiting window of opportunity. We're seeing fewer and fewer top prospects in his recruiting classes and I don't think he can sell the program to kids with the "You can be on the ground floor of turning this thing around," like he used with Arrelious Benn and Co. That sell just isn't going to work anymore. To me, this is a 5-7 team for five more seasons. Thoughts?
Also, give me your score prediction for NIU at Purdue.
Thanks.
J-Ran,
The current coaches won't be allowed to have too many more 5-7s. I think you make some good points about recruiting. What Illinois needs to continue the recruiting is to have success on the field and to be able to say, "Help us keep this going."
Purdue looked very good in its first two games, but Northern Illinois played well in a loss at Wisconsin. Boilermakers in a close game.
"Barb Hartman, Milan, IL: Why weren't there any fireworks after we scored? I hope that tradition has not been discontinued !
Moderator: Barb: It's the cost. They saved $20,000 by not using the fireworks. Jim and Loren"
This question was posed in Jim and Loren's chat yesterday and the answer actually bothered me a little bit so I thought about the actual situation. Yes, I understand the economy is down, but the horseshoe sold out it's season ticket allotment, and by all accounts it sure looked like the sidelines and student sections were very full. While I go to the games for the actual game itself, there are some that just go for the atmosphere including my wife. Am I to believe that Illinois is pinching pennies this tightly? If so, what is the justification?
They charge horseshoe season ticket holders 77$ a seat, and I know the sidelines are much more(in the 200+ range), but for the sake of this argument let's break it down as follows: (announced) 62,000 fans at the ISU game x 77$ (at horseshoe rates which we know isn't the case because sidelines are more expensive and student tickets I assume are cheaper plus the walkups which went for 25 bucks at face) = $4,774,000 revenue for the entire season. Almost 5 million dollars and that figure isn't actual because of the above mentioned factors (walkups at face 25-60$, higher sideline rates, etc.) + higher attendance for Big Ten games especially Penn State and Michigan + parking at 20 bucks a car + I-Fund donations + overpriced concessions, and they are skimping on 20k in fireworks for 6 home games? By my count, if they only spent that money on fireworks they could fund 238.7 games or roughly almost 40 years of playing 6 home games a season.
Sorry Barb, I guess the fireworks will have to be saved for the post game shows when the Illinois defense keeps allowing opponents to run up the score or the offensive coordinator doesn't call plays to get Benn the ball.
Disgruntled,
That is awesome research. You need to come work at The News-Gazette.
I think the fireworks need to come back. You're right that $20k seems like a drop in the bucket. I'm surprised it costs that much, honestly.
I'm guessing a fireworks company might trade fireworks for a free ad on the scoreboard. Thus, no $20k spent.
This is perhaps a bit off topic, but what happened to the fireworks after a touchdown at Memorial? I only ask because I was with some kids at the game last weekend and it was the first time I can remember that there were no fireworks and one of the few times there was no flyover. Shall I blame the economy for this too?
Steve,
I'm going to check before the Penn State game and see if the fireworks will return.
You can always call or write the athletic department to voice your concerns.
Bob,
The db's soft coverage of opponents wide receivors is allowing seven yards anytime they throw it. It isn't working at all. YAOUR THOUGHTS?
Al Ryle,
It seems like the coverage is a problem for the Illinois defense. When a good passing team plays Illinois (Minnesota, Penn State, Michigan) it could be a real problem. But I don't think Illinois is going to change its defensive philosophy. It is simply going to ask the players to perform better.
I don't think I've ever seen as many flags for penalties on the Illini as I saw last Saturday. Should I take that as another sign that this team isn't coached well or is it more a symptom of a penalty-happy officiating crew?
Geno,
Don't blame the officials for the penalties. They all seemed good to me. Of course, I'm a fan of the officials.
More likely, it was excited players trying to have a big first home game. Hard to blame them for that.
Let's see what happens with penalties the next three weeks.
How come the dang trainers don't never tell people what's going on? We have a right to know if these guys we pay to watch are gonna play!
First aid,
There are some privacy issues involved, but I think the players have the right to allow the information out. I don't know why they don't. I agree that you should be allowed to know. We don't hold the information back.
Any idea why Charest didn't get in the game Saturday? I saw him warming up several times but he never came in, not even to hand the ball off in the last couple of series. Whether they think he's going to compete for the starting job next year or not, it makes some sense to at least let him get his feet wet in a game like that, don't you think? Thanks to our crazy schedule I don't see many other opportunities for him.
Stan,
I asked Ron Zook on Sunday and he said there were no plans to play him. With a sidelined starter, wouldn't you want to see the No. 3 guy on the field just in case? Apparently, the Illinois coaches didn't think it was important.
You're right, there aren't many more obvious chances for him to play.
I know Eddie needs reps but why do you think that Zook didn't give Charest at least a series...
Rick,
Ron Zook said he wanted to see Eddie for the length of the game. It doesn't sound like playing Jacob was a priority.
Bob,
This team hasn't had competent safeties since Mitchell and Harrison, two guys who came in under Turner. The safeties this staff has played since then have not showed any improvement. At what point will Curt Mallory be held responsible for this?
Jason,
All of the defensive coaches are held responsible for the problems in the secondary. While Coach Mallory has the major input in who plays, he didn't recruit all of the guys and he has help in determing the lineup.
Honestly, the coaches knew they had issues in the secondary going into the season, but they are hopeful it can get worked out.
Bob,
Let's see. Soft or no pass coverage, missed tackles, so-so pass rush, mindless penalties against a division 1-AA team doesn't bode well for a very successful season. On the positive side good job pass blocking by the offensive line as Eddie had decent time to pass or so it seemed. Let's hope Juice can get things going when he gets back but I have never been very comfortable with him at the QB.
James,
Like you, I'm curious about what's going to happen in the future. The team will be soundly tested the next month. And beyond.
why are you ignoring questions during your live chats during games?
Auggie,
Sorry if I've made this confusing, but the live chats don't start until after the game is over and I'm bad in the press box and done with interviews. The time on last week's chat was 10:30 p.m. It will start no later than that time and sooner if possible. But because of my responsibilities for the paper and HQ, it would be difficult to do the chat during the game.
I'll talk with Jim Rossow and see if he wants me to do that in the future. It's possible. But the first two weeks, we didn't intend for the chats to start until about one hour after the game.
Right now, Illinois' pass coverage is as erratic as Kanye West at an awards ceremony. Illinois' defense is designed to protect against the big plays by giving the opposing receivers a cushion. But, we are still seeing big plays. Absent improvement in this area, why not switch to a gambling defense?
What can be done to fix the problems in the secondary? It seems like teams can (and do) throw at will. Is it the schemes? Personel? Lack of a pass rush? It needs to be fixed or else it could be a long year
Bob- How many times are we going to hear the question, "Why won't the corners play closer so there isn't a 10-15 yard cushion given to the WR?" before there is actually something done about it. I understand that Zook does not want to give up the big play. To me it seems like he is either too stubborn or does not have the kind of football IQ required in a big time head coach to win on the big stage. It's that or he has no confidence in the athleticism of his players. He will forever be dubbed a bad coach and good recruiter until he succeeds on a consistent basis. Look at the great coaches in college football. They are all innovative with their schemes. This not only allows them to utilize the talent that they have specifically, but also keeps the opposition guessing and hinders their game planning. Why does he refuse to make adjustments other than, "Juice is going to run more or throw downfield." He is a walking cliche. Do you see any creativity coming from the coaching staff?
Jake, Matt and Jose,
I thought I'd hit the secondary questions all at once.
First, fans and players love gambling defenses. They provide turnovers, sacks and fun. But coaches hate gambling defenses. They want to be sound. And they hate big plays.
Maybe the answer is somewhere in between. Gamble at times, when it's least expected. And play less aggressively at other times. Mix it up. That seems to make the most sense. What they are doing now isn't working. They've got two weeks to make changes that will improve the overall effort. That will show us how creative they are.
Just a simple answer - who has Zook lost most credibility with, and why: key 2010 recruits, the media, fans buying tickets, Guenther, the team, major boo$ters?