Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:04 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Welcome back to another chat. We've got oodles of questions, so I'm going to get to them right away.
We will have one final postgame chat after Saturday's game.
Tom from Urbana, IL — 01:04 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Bob,
any chance we can get Tom Lemming back for another chat before signing day?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:05 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Tom,
That's a great idea. I'll check with Tom, but I'm guessing he will be willing. Maybe in January when recruiting starts to really heat up.
Lincoln Christian University from Lincoln, Illinois — 01:05 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Charlie Weis new Illinois OC?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:05 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Lincoln,
I don't think so. I think Weis will be back in the NFL very soon.
Andrew from Mahomet, IL — 01:05 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Is your reliable source still saying Stoops is going to Notre Dame?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:06 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Andrew,
I haven't heard from the person again and have tried to leave him/her alone. Stoops has come out strongly against the idea of leaving, but I won't believe he didn't take the job until they hire somebody else.
Peter from St. Louis, MO — 01:07 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Hey Bob,
How do you think Ron Zook felt when he read C.J.'s comments in the Sun-Times on Wednesday evening? Saying our gameday atmosphere didn't compare to Iowa City's, that Illinois never even bothered to have him speak with a tight end during his visit, etc all indicated this was a no-brainer for an in-state kid. This really speaks volume towards the state of our program under the dynamic leadership of the two Rons.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:08 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Peter,
If what Ron Zook says is true, he didn't read the article in the Sun-Times. He claims to not read the papers or listen to anything besides Christian radio during the season. But I'm guessing somebody pointed it out to him and it didn't go over very well.
I don't believe C.J. took an official visit to Illinois. I think that was supposed to happen the weekend of the banquet.
Scott from Champaign, IL — 01:09 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Thanks for doing the chats Bob. Love 'em! I liked Loren Tate's column on Juice today. I've been an unapolgetic Juice fan for the past 4 years and admire both his accomplishments and perserverence. Since college is all about making the grades, how would you grade Juice's career at Illinois?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:12 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Scott,
I'd say he was an A-B student as a sophomore and junior and a C student as a senior. Overall, give him a high B. Nobody else in school history has as many yards. He beat Ohio State when the Buckeyes were No. 1. He led the Illini to the Rose Bowl.
And I agree with Ron Zook and Loren that Juice was always a standup guy.
Brian from Urbana, IL — 01:12 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Bob,
so who wins the Heisman?
sounds like McCoy bolted to the front after his great game last week
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:13 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Brian,
My boss, who must be from Florida, is pushing Tim Tebow. Good luck with that.
I am going to take his advice and watch to see what happens Saturday in the Big 12 and SEC title games (and to a lesser extent, the CUSA title game). We'll call it Selection Saturday. But going into the weekend, I think Colt McCoy is the leader and Tebow isn't on my list.
Scott Wiese from Chesterfield, MO — 01:14 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Bob, has there ever been a Quarterback that has won at the big house, at the horseshoe, beaten Joe Paterno, and played in the Rose Bowl? People may remember Juice Williams for his down years but he has accomplished what many, many,many quarterbacks have failed to do in the Big 10.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Scott,
Great points. I think Juice's legacy improves the further away we get from his career. Ultimately, you'll remember the Ohio State game and the Rose Bowl and the big day in the Big House. The senior season won't be as big of a factor in future years.
Tom from Urbana, IL — 01:15 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Bob,
surprised that Kelly isnt on your list for next Notre Dame coach. Would have to think he would take it if offered.
You still think Stoops is a legitimate canidate? It doesnt seem like he would want to leave what he has done at Oklahoma, but guess you never know
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:17 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Tom,
I've heard there are some negatives against Kelly relative to Notre Dame, not sure what they are or how true they are.
I still like Stoops. He keeps saying things that he can justify later, like that he hasn't been interviewed and doesn't expect to be interviewed. He wouldn't have to be interviewed by Notre Dame. The school would simply offer the job. I think Stoops is getting tired of Oklahoma.
Drew from Urbana, IL — 01:17 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Should we assume that Mikle Schultz is done after rivals reported he is "all but out the door"? Also whats your attendence guess for Saturday?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:19 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Drew,
The only people who know Mike Schultz's fate are Ron Zook and Ron Guenther. But there has been lots of speculation that he will be moving on.
The announced attendance for Saturday will be in the high 40s or low 50s. The actual attendance will be in the low 30s. Like the temperature.
TK from Tampa, FL — 01:19 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Given the interim status of the university president, doesn't it make the most sense (least offensive option) to address the "Ron's" at the same time next year when the possibility exists to package a new AD with a head football coach? Letting Zook go now forces RG to hire as a lame duck AD, and I certainly think the whole process is more effective and will produce better results if we move on in tandem.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:22 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
TK,
Yes. For all of the reasons you mentioned. There is a multi-tiered process that needs to be followed before any changes are made. And it starts above the AD at the president level. I don't believe Ron Guenther wants to hire another football coach.
Rich from Carpinteria, CA — 01:22 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Besides the obvious (Hawthorne), what frosh that played this year and that didn't (redshirted) will have the biggest impact next year?
If recruiting goes as bad as it appears it might, is loading up with JCs a possibility?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:23 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Rich,
I would mention two guys: Justin Green and Michael Buchanan. They didn't get as much time as they might have hoped, but they will be better for having played this season.
I think Justin Green can be a great player at Illinois.
Charley from Bellingham, WA — 01:23 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Has RG ever talked with Zook about his weaknesses (i.e., use of game time management, micromanaging OC/DC/Assts, ability to adjust to strategies during game, etc.)? Has Zook shown any willingness to change his behaviors? Like Weber done with his recruiting approach.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:25 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Charley,
Guenther and Zook talk all of the time, so I have to assume they have touched on every subject, including the weaknesses of the coach.
Ultimately, a guy has to coach to his personality. But he also has to be willing to make changes if it isn't working.
Shief from Champaign, IL — 01:25 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
I am tired of hearing about Illinois's co-defensive coordinators and seeing the defense struggle. Do you think that Zook will fire the existing guys and bring in someone who can actually lead? Also, who might take the lead in the offensive and defensive coordinator races?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:27 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Shief,
The defense is designed by Ron Zook. So, he can change the parts, but the schemes won't be different. I don't know what will happen with the assistant coaches, but I think there will be pressure to make changes.
One name that keeps coming up if there is a change at offensive coordinator is Noel Mazzone. He last worked for the Jets as receivers coach and has a ton of experience in college. Defensive coordinator is a tougher call.
Mike Hill from Taylorville, Il — 01:28 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
WHEN is somebody at Illinois going to wake up and fire Zook, before he does more damage?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:28 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Mike,
There is really only one person who can do that. Last time we talked to Ron Guenther, he said Ron Zook will be back in 2010. Of course, he can change his mind, but I don't sense that will happen.
Kevin from Liberty, Illinois — 01:28 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Hi Bob,
This isn't a question, but in honor of Senior Day I would like to say that Juice Williams is my favorite Illini - any sport, any era.
His career certainly hasn't turned out the way any of us (and he himself) had hoped, but from his beginnings on the message boards, his efforts in recruiting, the OSU game, the Michigan games, etc. and for 10,000 plus yards he has been the face of Illinois football. From all accounts I've seen and read, and from my vantage point in the horseshoe, he has been an upstanding student athlete.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:29 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Kevin,
Thanks for the comments. I think Juice has a lot of fans out there.
Marcus from Washington, DC — 01:29 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
There has been a press report that Mike Schultz is "all but gone." Is this correct?
The offense this year has disappointed, but wasn't Schultz hired to implement the existing offense already in place? And if Zook hired Schultz, why should his hiring of a replacement be any better? No doubt the defensive assistants should go, but if all of the assistants are going to go, why not get rid of the whole staff and start fresh?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:31 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Marcus,
I have heard those reports, but don't have anything official. As soon as I know, you will know.
I think the Illinois offense has performed well in recent weeks. Hard to argue against it starting with the Michigan game. Sometimes, it takes a while to get a new coordinator working well with the returning players. If Illinois has a big game against Fresno State, it might be hard to justify letting Schultz go.
Dave from Winnetka, IL — 01:31 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Is coach Zook guaranteed to be back next year for sure? I know that's what AD Guenther said at the Purdue game but perhaps his thinking has changed.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:32 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Dave,
I don't think there are any guarantees in college sports. But I get the sense that Ron Zook will return in 2010.
Dennis from McHenry, Illinois — 01:32 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Louisville's coach is let go after 3 rough seasons. Weiss is let go after 4 out of six rough seasons. Why can't Illinois start over with a new AD (aka alumnus Jim Phillips) and a new coach and get going in the right direction. Is this university an attractive job for an a top notch AD and coach or what? Haven't we upgraded our facilities to be better than most and be able to want people to come here?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:34 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Dennis,
I think the Illinois job is much better now than when Ron Zook took it. And I thought it was better when Ron Zook took it than when Ron Turner took it.
Illinois is in the Big Ten, has oodles of players in the state and a good fan base. So, it is attractive to talented ADs and coaches alike. In my opinion.
Hoopshall1991 from Ballwin, MO — 01:34 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
The Missouri Valley Conference is looking to expand. Perhaps the administration at the University of Illinois should fill out an application. But first, a warning. Illinois should not look down its Big Ten nose at the mid-major MVC. Why? The Valley's SIU plays better football in Carbondale than its behemoth brethren in Champaign. Take note: There are currently eight I-AA teams ranked ahead of Illinois. Meanwhile, Illinois basketball has already lost state bragging rights when it couldn't beat neighboring mid-major Bradley, a team projected to finish 6th in the MVC preseason poll in October. Losses to unimpressive Utah and then Bradley exposed deficiencies that will haunt Illinois for weeks to come.Those who penciled in a Final Four berth this season because of media-overhyped fabulous freshmen are having second thoughts. Illinois is still paying for Weber's stretch of flawed recruiting after 2005. Illinois football is no longer relevant, either in the Big Ten or on a national level. Not with only two coaches with winning records in the last 49 years. Thanks to Tepper, Turner, Zook and Guenther, the football program has been cut off at the knees. Football's plunge, because of bollixed coaching hires and other misguided decisions, has been precipitous and endless. Illinois could be sorting through the damage for a long time. But, hey, what's another 49 years? The top recruit has bailed, making telling remarks about Zook's disintegrated program that should open eyes in Champaign. But will they? Football is the front window at the university. College athletics today are a multi-million dollar business. More business than sport. Dozens of schools the size of Illinois, and smaller, have invested wisely in athletics and profited enormously,even in a recession. An Illinois alumni fan base, as well as residents of the state of Illinois, numbed and embarrassed by the losing culture, dwarfish athletic budget compared to the rest of the Big Ten and financial headwinds at the state university almost certain to soon cause the athletic director many a sleepless night, are straining to stay objective, but the bad news just keeps coming. Weber finished third in the Brad Beal chase, behind Florida and Kansas. Zook could lose more recruits. Fairytale endings seem as far away as the moon. There's a lot of angry unrest out there. They see the bottom of the barrel beckoning. At any multi-million dollar corporation, accountability is demanded. Whither Illinois?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:35 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Hoops,
Thanks for one of the longest questions we've ever had.
I want Zook's job from Sunshine, Florida — 01:35 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
I absolutely love your Blasts!
What are the chances Charest gets any action on Saturday? I can't imagine Zook dropping the ball that badly and not giving next years qb any reps during the last two games. Can you? He makes a big deal about giving his team the best chance to win this year. But what about preparing his qb for next year so they don't go 3-9 again!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:37 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
I want,
Thanks for the kind words about the Blasts. It's a lot of fun.
I don't think Jacob Charest plays Saturday unless Juice gets hurt. I think Zook wants Juice to play all of his final game. Right or wrong, that seems to be the way he is leaning.
Scott from Chicago, Il — 01:37 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
It seems obvious that Zook is on his way out. It's either now, or next year. Given that, and one look at the schedule for next year tells you all you need to know about his surviving, why wait? Isn't it going to be impossible to get anyone of real value to come here for maybe one year as an assistant? And why lose 2 years of recruiting?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:38 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Scott,
You make very good points. And if you or Loren Tate or Joe Schmoe was in charge, you could make that call. But Ron Guenther is the one deciding Ron Zook's fate and he seems to want to bring him back.
Two years ago, Illinois was in the Rose Bowl. I think Guenther wants to give Zook a chance to show that can happen again.
ray from el cajon, ca — 01:39 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Is there any chance of removing Zook and all of his lieutenants this year? I am so sick of being outcoached,out disciplined and outperformed on the field. Individually we have the talent to hold up to all Big Ten opponents but you cannot win when the other team knows every play you are running offensively and they also know how to so easily expose your weaknesses defensively. We have been playing 9 against 11.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:42 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Ray,
There is always a possibility. But I don't think it will happen. Not now.
You aren't the only frustrated fan. There are plenty of you. But the long-time athletic director is the one making the call.
Don't think he isn't hearing plenty of ideas/complaints about football.
illini fan in the lou from st louis, mo — 01:43 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Best guess at actual butts in seats for saturday - over or under 33,000?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:43 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Illini fan,
I'll say barely under. But who is going to count it?
Batman from Gotham City, NY — 01:43 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Illinois football is a joke. Why can't the Illinois football program take after all the other programs and say enough is enough with losing? And don't tell me there isn't enough money to buy Zook out because there is plenty of money to do that.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:44 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Batman,
I don't think money is the issue here. I think it's timing as much as anything else. I don't think Ron Guenther wants to bring in a new coach when he knows his own time on campus, at least as AD, has an expiration date.
Derek from Chicago, IL — 01:45 PM on Tue, 12/01/2009
Hi Bob,
We have SIU and NIU on the schedule next year. I don't know much about them but I believe they will be fired up to play us. Do you know what they will bring to the table next year?
Welcome back to another chat. We've got oodles of questions, so I'm going to get to them right away.
We will have one final postgame chat after Saturday's game.
Bob,
any chance we can get Tom Lemming back for another chat before signing day?
Tom,
That's a great idea. I'll check with Tom, but I'm guessing he will be willing. Maybe in January when recruiting starts to really heat up.
Charlie Weis new Illinois OC?
Lincoln,
I don't think so. I think Weis will be back in the NFL very soon.
Is your reliable source still saying Stoops is going to Notre Dame?
Andrew,
I haven't heard from the person again and have tried to leave him/her alone. Stoops has come out strongly against the idea of leaving, but I won't believe he didn't take the job until they hire somebody else.
Hey Bob,
How do you think Ron Zook felt when he read C.J.'s comments in the Sun-Times on Wednesday evening? Saying our gameday atmosphere didn't compare to Iowa City's, that Illinois never even bothered to have him speak with a tight end during his visit, etc all indicated this was a no-brainer for an in-state kid. This really speaks volume towards the state of our program under the dynamic leadership of the two Rons.
Peter,
If what Ron Zook says is true, he didn't read the article in the Sun-Times. He claims to not read the papers or listen to anything besides Christian radio during the season. But I'm guessing somebody pointed it out to him and it didn't go over very well.
I don't believe C.J. took an official visit to Illinois. I think that was supposed to happen the weekend of the banquet.
Thanks for doing the chats Bob. Love 'em! I liked Loren Tate's column on Juice today. I've been an unapolgetic Juice fan for the past 4 years and admire both his accomplishments and perserverence. Since college is all about making the grades, how would you grade Juice's career at Illinois?
Scott,
I'd say he was an A-B student as a sophomore and junior and a C student as a senior. Overall, give him a high B. Nobody else in school history has as many yards. He beat Ohio State when the Buckeyes were No. 1. He led the Illini to the Rose Bowl.
And I agree with Ron Zook and Loren that Juice was always a standup guy.
Bob,
so who wins the Heisman?
sounds like McCoy bolted to the front after his great game last week
Brian,
My boss, who must be from Florida, is pushing Tim Tebow. Good luck with that.
I am going to take his advice and watch to see what happens Saturday in the Big 12 and SEC title games (and to a lesser extent, the CUSA title game). We'll call it Selection Saturday. But going into the weekend, I think Colt McCoy is the leader and Tebow isn't on my list.
Bob, has there ever been a Quarterback that has won at the big house, at the horseshoe, beaten Joe Paterno, and played in the Rose Bowl? People may remember Juice Williams for his down years but he has accomplished what many, many,many quarterbacks have failed to do in the Big 10.
Scott,
Great points. I think Juice's legacy improves the further away we get from his career. Ultimately, you'll remember the Ohio State game and the Rose Bowl and the big day in the Big House. The senior season won't be as big of a factor in future years.
Bob,
surprised that Kelly isnt on your list for next Notre Dame coach. Would have to think he would take it if offered.
You still think Stoops is a legitimate canidate? It doesnt seem like he would want to leave what he has done at Oklahoma, but guess you never know
Tom,
I've heard there are some negatives against Kelly relative to Notre Dame, not sure what they are or how true they are.
I still like Stoops. He keeps saying things that he can justify later, like that he hasn't been interviewed and doesn't expect to be interviewed. He wouldn't have to be interviewed by Notre Dame. The school would simply offer the job. I think Stoops is getting tired of Oklahoma.
Should we assume that Mikle Schultz is done after rivals reported he is "all but out the door"? Also whats your attendence guess for Saturday?
Drew,
The only people who know Mike Schultz's fate are Ron Zook and Ron Guenther. But there has been lots of speculation that he will be moving on.
The announced attendance for Saturday will be in the high 40s or low 50s. The actual attendance will be in the low 30s. Like the temperature.
Given the interim status of the university president, doesn't it make the most sense (least offensive option) to address the "Ron's" at the same time next year when the possibility exists to package a new AD with a head football coach? Letting Zook go now forces RG to hire as a lame duck AD, and I certainly think the whole process is more effective and will produce better results if we move on in tandem.
TK,
Yes. For all of the reasons you mentioned. There is a multi-tiered process that needs to be followed before any changes are made. And it starts above the AD at the president level. I don't believe Ron Guenther wants to hire another football coach.
Besides the obvious (Hawthorne), what frosh that played this year and that didn't (redshirted) will have the biggest impact next year?
If recruiting goes as bad as it appears it might, is loading up with JCs a possibility?
Rich,
I would mention two guys: Justin Green and Michael Buchanan. They didn't get as much time as they might have hoped, but they will be better for having played this season.
I think Justin Green can be a great player at Illinois.
Has RG ever talked with Zook about his weaknesses (i.e., use of game time management, micromanaging OC/DC/Assts, ability to adjust to strategies during game, etc.)? Has Zook shown any willingness to change his behaviors? Like Weber done with his recruiting approach.
Charley,
Guenther and Zook talk all of the time, so I have to assume they have touched on every subject, including the weaknesses of the coach.
Ultimately, a guy has to coach to his personality. But he also has to be willing to make changes if it isn't working.
I am tired of hearing about Illinois's co-defensive coordinators and seeing the defense struggle. Do you think that Zook will fire the existing guys and bring in someone who can actually lead? Also, who might take the lead in the offensive and defensive coordinator races?
Shief,
The defense is designed by Ron Zook. So, he can change the parts, but the schemes won't be different. I don't know what will happen with the assistant coaches, but I think there will be pressure to make changes.
One name that keeps coming up if there is a change at offensive coordinator is Noel Mazzone. He last worked for the Jets as receivers coach and has a ton of experience in college. Defensive coordinator is a tougher call.
WHEN is somebody at Illinois going to wake up and fire Zook, before he does more damage?
Mike,
There is really only one person who can do that. Last time we talked to Ron Guenther, he said Ron Zook will be back in 2010. Of course, he can change his mind, but I don't sense that will happen.
Hi Bob,
This isn't a question, but in honor of Senior Day I would like to say that Juice Williams is my favorite Illini - any sport, any era.
His career certainly hasn't turned out the way any of us (and he himself) had hoped, but from his beginnings on the message boards, his efforts in recruiting, the OSU game, the Michigan games, etc. and for 10,000 plus yards he has been the face of Illinois football. From all accounts I've seen and read, and from my vantage point in the horseshoe, he has been an upstanding student athlete.
Kevin,
Thanks for the comments. I think Juice has a lot of fans out there.
There has been a press report that Mike Schultz is "all but gone." Is this correct?
The offense this year has disappointed, but wasn't Schultz hired to implement the existing offense already in place? And if Zook hired Schultz, why should his hiring of a replacement be any better? No doubt the defensive assistants should go, but if all of the assistants are going to go, why not get rid of the whole staff and start fresh?
Marcus,
I have heard those reports, but don't have anything official. As soon as I know, you will know.
I think the Illinois offense has performed well in recent weeks. Hard to argue against it starting with the Michigan game. Sometimes, it takes a while to get a new coordinator working well with the returning players. If Illinois has a big game against Fresno State, it might be hard to justify letting Schultz go.
Is coach Zook guaranteed to be back next year for sure? I know that's what AD Guenther said at the Purdue game but perhaps his thinking has changed.
Dave,
I don't think there are any guarantees in college sports. But I get the sense that Ron Zook will return in 2010.
Louisville's coach is let go after 3 rough seasons. Weiss is let go after 4 out of six rough seasons. Why can't Illinois start over with a new AD (aka alumnus Jim Phillips) and a new coach and get going in the right direction. Is this university an attractive job for an a top notch AD and coach or what? Haven't we upgraded our facilities to be better than most and be able to want people to come here?
Dennis,
I think the Illinois job is much better now than when Ron Zook took it. And I thought it was better when Ron Zook took it than when Ron Turner took it.
Illinois is in the Big Ten, has oodles of players in the state and a good fan base. So, it is attractive to talented ADs and coaches alike. In my opinion.
The Missouri Valley Conference is looking to expand. Perhaps the administration at the University of Illinois should fill out an application. But first, a warning. Illinois should not look down its Big Ten nose at the mid-major MVC. Why? The Valley's SIU plays better football in Carbondale than its behemoth brethren in Champaign. Take note: There are currently eight I-AA teams ranked ahead of Illinois. Meanwhile, Illinois basketball has already lost state bragging rights when it couldn't beat neighboring mid-major Bradley, a team projected to finish 6th in the MVC preseason poll in October. Losses to unimpressive Utah and then Bradley exposed deficiencies that will haunt Illinois for weeks to come.Those who penciled in a Final Four berth this season because of media-overhyped fabulous freshmen are having second thoughts. Illinois is still paying for Weber's stretch of flawed recruiting after 2005. Illinois football is no longer relevant, either in the Big Ten or on a national level. Not with only two coaches with winning records in the last 49 years. Thanks to Tepper, Turner, Zook and Guenther, the football program has been cut off at the knees. Football's plunge, because of bollixed coaching hires and other misguided decisions, has been precipitous and endless. Illinois could be sorting through the damage for a long time. But, hey, what's another 49 years? The top recruit has bailed, making telling remarks about Zook's disintegrated program that should open eyes in Champaign. But will they? Football is the front window at the university. College athletics today are a multi-million dollar business. More business than sport. Dozens of schools the size of Illinois, and smaller, have invested wisely in athletics and profited enormously,even in a recession. An Illinois alumni fan base, as well as residents of the state of Illinois, numbed and embarrassed by the losing culture, dwarfish athletic budget compared to the rest of the Big Ten and financial headwinds at the state university almost certain to soon cause the athletic director many a sleepless night, are straining to stay objective, but the bad news just keeps coming. Weber finished third in the Brad Beal chase, behind Florida and Kansas. Zook could lose more recruits. Fairytale endings seem as far away as the moon. There's a lot of angry unrest out there. They see the bottom of the barrel beckoning. At any multi-million dollar corporation, accountability is demanded. Whither Illinois?
Hoops,
Thanks for one of the longest questions we've ever had.
I absolutely love your Blasts!
What are the chances Charest gets any action on Saturday? I can't imagine Zook dropping the ball that badly and not giving next years qb any reps during the last two games. Can you? He makes a big deal about giving his team the best chance to win this year. But what about preparing his qb for next year so they don't go 3-9 again!
I want,
Thanks for the kind words about the Blasts. It's a lot of fun.
I don't think Jacob Charest plays Saturday unless Juice gets hurt. I think Zook wants Juice to play all of his final game. Right or wrong, that seems to be the way he is leaning.
It seems obvious that Zook is on his way out. It's either now, or next year. Given that, and one look at the schedule for next year tells you all you need to know about his surviving, why wait? Isn't it going to be impossible to get anyone of real value to come here for maybe one year as an assistant? And why lose 2 years of recruiting?
Scott,
You make very good points. And if you or Loren Tate or Joe Schmoe was in charge, you could make that call. But Ron Guenther is the one deciding Ron Zook's fate and he seems to want to bring him back.
Two years ago, Illinois was in the Rose Bowl. I think Guenther wants to give Zook a chance to show that can happen again.
Is there any chance of removing Zook and all of his lieutenants this year? I am so sick of being outcoached,out disciplined and outperformed on the field. Individually we have the talent to hold up to all Big Ten opponents but you cannot win when the other team knows every play you are running offensively and they also know how to so easily expose your weaknesses defensively. We have been playing 9 against 11.
Ray,
There is always a possibility. But I don't think it will happen. Not now.
You aren't the only frustrated fan. There are plenty of you. But the long-time athletic director is the one making the call.
Don't think he isn't hearing plenty of ideas/complaints about football.
Best guess at actual butts in seats for saturday - over or under 33,000?
Illini fan,
I'll say barely under. But who is going to count it?
Illinois football is a joke. Why can't the Illinois football program take after all the other programs and say enough is enough with losing? And don't tell me there isn't enough money to buy Zook out because there is plenty of money to do that.
Batman,
I don't think money is the issue here. I think it's timing as much as anything else. I don't think Ron Guenther wants to bring in a new coach when he knows his own time on campus, at least as AD, has an expiration date.
Hi Bob,
We have SIU and NIU on the schedule next year. I don't know much about them but I believe they will be fired up to play us. Do you know what they will bring to the table next year?