Moderator: Welcome back to another chat. We have a bunch of questions ready and I will get to as many as I can.

Don't forget, there will be a postgame chat Saturday, starting at about 4:30 or so.

W.Spearman, Yuma, Arizona: The second half of the question about

C.J. Any word what going on with him.

Stanzi threw 5 interceptions. Iowa

wins because of their defense, not

their productive offense which usually

is the run.

Moderator: We.,

We have been trying to get ahold of C.J. and have had no luck. I don't think his decision will be made, for Illinois or any other school, until later.

He is having a great year and his high school advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Right now, I'm sure he is concentrating on finishing the season strong.

Chief Illiniwek, Champaign, IL: I understand that we ran over 50 times, and for over 350 yards. I know it worked, but when you are losing, 1-6, and it is 2nd and 17, why on earth would you call a halfback dive? thats a terrible play-call. However, I hope this staff gets another year, though I would love to have a legit D-Coordinator in charge of the defense.

Speaking of legit, did you see Corey Liuget get punched? Action should be taken, and he should be suspended.

P.S. Could you maybe give Jim and Loren some advice about how to run these chats? They give one sentence answers, and in fact never actually answer a question. I tend to get the feeling that maybe they hate their lives for having to do them.

Thanks a lot Bob!

Moderator: Chief,

You're right that a second and 17 dive play isn't commonplace. Sometimes, you just want to start over, so maybe that was it. Punt and get out.

I didn't see Corey Liuget get punched during the game, but I did see him come off the field. And I've seen the play since then. Certainly, the Big Ten will take some action.

Loren and Jim enthusiastically jumped at the idea of spending some of their own time after a long morning on the radio to help out HQ. Each person has their own chat personality, so I'm not going to tell them how to handle theirs. Actually, I find their approach refreshingly different, though it isn't the way I'm going to go.

Ronnie, Compton, CA: Bob,

thanks for the great chats!

I know you have to remain impartial as a journalist. But do you find yourself slowly becoming a fan, the more you cover the Illini?

Moderator: Ronnie,

You're right that I have to remain impartial. Of course, you get to know the players and coaches, but that can't alter that impartiality.

I think I have a better grasp of what's going on with Illinois football than other Big Ten schools and hopefully that knowledge comes through.

There is a distinct line that can't be crossed.

Mike, Urbana, Il: Do you think there will be any fallout at Illinois from the story on ESPN that Locksley had multiple physical altercations with other coaches on Illinois staff? Wouldn't seem to help the case for keeping Zook, despite the Michigan win.

Moderator: Mike,

Unless something very awful is uncovered, I don't think it will have much of an impact on Ron Zook's future at Illinois. Sometimes, heated words are exchanged on staffs. I've heard stories of fights during past coaching eras at Illinois.

Honestly, we didn't hear any stories about Mike Locksley until after he got to New Mexico. He was always very easy to deal with. Obviously, he's got some problems at his new job.

brandon, champaign, illinois: Hey Bob! Thanks for the chats. Do you think Zook will stick with Mikel and Jason for the remainder of the season? I feel we found our go to guys and is Zook still going to use the running back by committee approach?

Moderator: Brandon,

I think that Mikel is the lead back now and that Jason Ford is second. I think that's the way it will remain, barring injury, the rest of the season. I also think Daniel Dufrene will get some time, but not as much.

They've found a hot hand (Leshoure) and they are going to play it. I think he's going to get better each game.

Chintan, Pittsburgh, PA: Bob,

I heard that the Mendenhall Brothers were on the sideline for the MIchigan game. Last I heard, Rashard and Walter were upset with the treatment of Rashard during the 2007 season and Walter after. What's the story on their prodigal return to Memorial Stadium?

Moderator: Chintan,

I also heard the Mendenhalls would be on campus, but I never saw them. I think the fences are being mended but it still isn't perfect. I know Rashard was asked to go on the Illini Sports Network at halftime and declined. But I never did see him.

He has turned into a very good player for the Steelers. No surprise there. I hope he gets back to C-U soon.

tom , bloomington, IL: Bob, You mentioned in your latest "Blast" that the win over Michigan saves Zook. While it helps his cause I don't see how it can lock him in for 2010. If we can win 2 or more then I'd agree as it shows progress but if we go winless from here or even win just once it shows we were not able to use that win to gain momemtum and that negative mementum is likley to carry through into next year. Even your counterpart Loren agrees that one game does not a season make. Do you really think Zook is here next year regardless?

Moderator: Tom,

I might have overstated it a bit. I think the win was important to calm some of the criticism and also helped with recruiting. But you're right, 2-10 won't be good enough. I think Illinois has a chance to win a couple more games this season, including Saturday.

ea sports, glenview, il: Hi Bob -

Thanks for the great info as always.

Is it just me or did the defense seem to play more press coverage on Saturday? I know we gave up some big plays, but overall it seemed like a much more effective defense.

Also, what was your take on Rich Rod calling timouts with about 2 minutes left down by three scores? At that point, I would have assumed Big Blue would have happy to get out of town. It was nice to see that strategy backfire with Jason Ford's touchdown.

Go Illini!

EA

Moderator: ea,

The defense definitely seemed more aggressive, which I think helped produce sacks and turnovers. And it's possible the guys on the field are gaining more confidence. Having Corey Liuget playing well was also big. He can be a force when healthy.

Rodriguez must have wanted to try to get something out of the final minutes. In a way, you don't blame him. Maybe he wanted to use it as a teaching tool for his players. He'll tell his guys he didn't stop trying.

Karl, Columbia, IL: Bob: Like the Rutgers game in 2005, I have decided the Michigan game was and is the highlight of this season, so I am going to continue to celebrate! (until reality returns, most likely Saturday).

My question: Can the Illini get a downhill running going on Saturday v Minnesota? How do we matchup?

Moderator: Karl,

Minnesota's defense is statistically worse against the run than Michigan, so I think Illinois can move the ball on the ground against the Gophers. The key, as usual, is how much pressure Illinois can apply with the pass. If Juice Williams completes some early throws down the field, Minnesota has a problem.

Kyle, Elgin, IL: CJ Fiedorowicz: big loss, or biggest loss among Illinois Recruiting history?

Moderator: Kyle,

If it happens, it's a big loss. But the biggest in recent years, in my opinion, was Chris Redman. He would have given Illinois a good quarterback for four years and might have saved Lou Tepper's job.

I don't think Illinois is out of it with C.J. Wait to see what happens in the next month or two.

David, Savoy, IL: First of all, it feels so great to be an Illini fan after beating scUM! I forgot what it felt like to see Illinois win against a BCS team. It was fun to yell "Go home blue!" at the scUM fans after having to attend Fumblegate in 2000. I saw Juice at Schnucks and made sure to tell him "good game". Hopefully this game will give him some confidence for the rest of the season. Alright, now here's my question. I know that Dick Vitale is going to be calling the Michigan State game on February 8. I wanted to ask when is the last time Dick Vitale called a game in the Assembly Hall and why has it been so long? I've heard rumors that it was because he was heckled last time he was here. Is that really true? As always, thanks for the chats!

Moderator: David,

I can't imagine fans would have heckled Dick Vitale here. He usually is popular with the fans, especially the students. The Duke Vitale stuff has become kind of a big deal, but I think he just likes good coaching and considers Coach K one of the best. Hard to argue that.

I'd like to see Bob Knight on the sidelines at an Illinois game. Probably need to bring in some more security for that one.

Jeremy, Benton, IL: Bob,

I know this is a Michigan team that no one is giving us any credit for beating. But, isn't this still the Michigan team who beat Notre Dame earlier in the year? They have lost several close games I believe? Why can't we just be fixing our problems one game at a time. Do you think we are on our way to something special here at the end?

Moderator: Jeremy,

Special is probably not an option because of the six losses. But if Illinois wins three of the last four, it will change some of the way people feel about the team and staff.

You're right about Michigan losing close games. The Wolverines seemed to have lost their way, but they still have lots of talent.

John, Venice, Florida: You never mentioned anything about Kyle Praters visit. Did you hear anything positive?

Moderator: John,

I heard nothing but positives. First, he was here. And that's a big deal. The second best player in the country doesn't usually visit 1-6 teams. I've heard Ron Zook had a good visit with Prater and his family. I won't be surprised if he signs with Illinois, though it is still a long shot.

Dr. Phil, Orland Park, IL: Bob, I love your Q & A's with the players, especially the newer kids. My comments and questions are as follows:

Why are so many Illini fans in love with poor football coaching? Yes, it was a great win against Michigan, but Zook will have one winning season in five, and Turner only had two in eight seasons! Therefore, fans should not complain? I do not understand. Also, when was the ban against media members watching practice put into effect this year? If you had access during Camp Rantoul and previous seasons, what do you think triggered the change in policy? Thanks again for your articles.

Moderator: Dr. Phil,

I think fans always have the right to complain. You buy the tickets, you watch the games on TV, you deserve to be heard. And you're right that the records for the Illinois coaches have not been very good the past 15 years or so. Illinois should be better than that.

The media continues to have access to Camp Rantoul. The access ends when the team returns to Champaign before the season. It started in 2008 and continued this year. Though I think The News-Gazette should be allowed at practice, I do understand the thinking that goes behind the ban. Coaches don't want information out there that might hurt their teams. Before the Internet, there wasn't much danger of that happening even with reporters at your practices. But with the quick move of information, the coaches don't feel like they can expose themselves to that.

I'm going to stop whining about it and figure out a way to live with the new rules.

Matt, Chicago, IL: What was on the agenda for Prater's visit? Was he down here for more than 1 day? Was Whitmer or Cooper with him? Who hosted Prater's visit?

Moderator: Matt,

I don't know all the details, but I don't believe Corey Cooper or Chandler Whitmer were here. Their official visits will be the weekend of the team banquet.

Kyle had a game Friday night (a big win), so he was here Saturday and Sunday. His parents were with him.

I don't think there were any other visits. The coaches wanted to give Kyle all of their attention. Very smart. It sounds like it went well.

Remember that Prater has a former Illini, Famous Hulbert, as his coach.

Brad, Wyoming, IL: You mentioned in various stories after the Michigan game that J Leman gave a speech in the locker room this past weekend. If J decides that his playing days are over, isn't it a complete no-brainer to hire him onto the football staff in some capacity? Based on this year's team's lack of fire I think they could really use him. We need a gridiron version of Jerrance!

Also, will I be seeing you at the 5-8 Club or Matt's Bar in Minneapolis Friday night? You can have a Jucy Lucy on me (they are burgers, not booze)!

Moderator: Brad,

I think J would be an obvious choice as a coach if he wants to do that. But I'm not sure if that's what he will want to do with his career. He talks about how patient and nice his wife has been while he continues to try to play pro football. But that career ends eventually. Coaching isn't for everybody.

Let me know when for the 5-8 Club or Matt's Bar and I'm there. I'll buy the burgers.

Phil, Collierville, Tn: Bob- How about all the Freshman and Sophmores that contributed and played so well on Saturday. Many besides the excellent all around play of Hawthorne - Ian Thomas, Buchanan, the two Offensive Tackles, the two running backs, etc. - it appears they are ready to hopefully take the lead. Also heard Lehman spoke with the team prior to the game- maybe he should be hired as an assistant since he likely motivated them?

Wanted your thoughts to a couple of keys besides the underclass players-

Living in SEC country all I hear about is the speed in the SEC so my thoughts on Saturdays game was that one of the keys was the Illini speed vs. Michigan. Are we that fast or is Michigan that slow or was it a combination fo both?

The other key I thought was Cumberland back at TE. He has to be a nightmare for a defensive safety or Linebacker to match up against?

Thanks for your chats and as an out of town season ticket holder it is nice to go to Illini HQ for information.

Moderator: Phil,

I was just looking at who will be back next season for Illinois. It should be a good group, especially when you factor in the return of Martez Wilson and Miami Thomas. Basically, the defense can be manned with all former starters and the offense will have only a couple of new guys.

J would be a good coach if that's what he decides to do.

I think speed is a positive for Illinois. Those Michigan guys are supposed to be fast too, so it must be that the Illini are faster.

Jeff Cumberland is a much more effective offensive weapon as a tight end. It will probably be the position he'll be asked to play in the NFL.

Jacoub, Chicago, IL: I will be in Minneapolis going to the game and just wanted to know where the Illini hang out is up there and where will you be grabing a beer at? Also, I think Illinois wins this one 42-38 in a thriller because niether defense is that good.

Moderator: Jacoub,

I'm supposed to be getting some advice on Minneapolis hangouts from some friends up there, but they are too busy at the lakes to get back to me. Jerks (just kidding).

From what Brad wrote, the 5-8 Club and Matt's Bar sound good. And I'm guessing there are plenty of fun places in the campus area.

You might be right about the high scoring game. Both defenses seem vulnerable. And both offenses are coming in on confidence builders.

James, Greenville, SC: Bob,

Thanks for the chats. I'm sure you'll be getting insane questions about Illinois' chances of running the table to go bowling. While I'm ecstatic about the win sgainst a reeling Michigan team, this season still leaves alot to be desired. I'm still not sold on Zook and this staff. Do you think there will still be some major staff changes after the season, or will that depend on the results from here on out? We won't go 4-0. Better teams will stop our run game forcing us to pass. Juice still hasn't shown he can pass consistenly(protection also being a problem)

Moderator: James,

In college football, nothing is insane (think Appalachian State beating Michigan). But a 4-0 finish is about as unlikely as anything I can imagine. So, if the team wins five or less, what happens? Certainly, there will be some changes, maybe major changes in the staff. Because this team was supposed to win eight games, not four or five. Something will be done. What we won't know until later is what those changes will be. And they might be different than what you think.

Kraemer, Paris, IL: Good win over a seriously struggling Michigan team. Really nice to see the fire back even if it is just for one Saturday afternoon.

On to the question - Do you think that Charest will transfer? While it appears it should be a wide open competition next spring everything I have been reading makes it appear that Scheelhaase is the real deal and will win the job. Why else would they have even contemplated taking the redshirt off him this season unless their faith in Charest getting the job done is minimal at best? He showed at Purdue that he can play, and he seems better than a career college backup.

Moderator: Kraemer,

I think the opinion of Jacob among the coaches has changed. And I think Jacob will stay here. He likes it at Illinois and if he goes anywhere else, he will have to sit a year.

I think there will be a wipe-open competition in the spring and summer. Should be fun to watch.

Dave C., Champaign, IL: Bob,

As much as the Illini have struggled this year, I've contended all along that if they win the turnover battle and not shoot themselves in the foot with penalties, they can play with anybody. That's exactly what happened against Michigan. Do it again Sat. and they beat Minnesota. I don't see how a coach can be blamed for Juice's ill-timed fumbles or poor decision interceptions. How many wins do you see the Illini getting if they win the turnover battle and avoid the killer penalties, ala the Michigan game?

Moderator: Dave,

As many as five. I think Cincinnati is a loss, barring a bunch of injuries for the Bearcats. That will be a huge game for Cincinnati. But Illinois can win the rest of its games. Not saying that it will, but it's possible.

Mike, Chicago, IL: Hi Bob -

Thanks for the chats. What is the skinny on Minny and how do you like our chances there?

Moderator: Mike,

Minnesota has had many of the same problems at Illinois. It has new coordinators on both sides of the ball. The difference is that the Gophers won the games against the struggling teams, where Illinois lost them.

I think Illinois has a chance at Minnesota. The nice weather will help. So will the lack of Eric Decker.

Craig, Chambana, Il: Bob - Thanks for the chats

I'm sorry I don’t have a bash Ron Gunther question/comment. Please tell me you aren’t the voter that voted 1-AA / FCS team Richmond into the AP 25 poll? They are receiving 1 vote.

Also who do think is going to replace Bobby Cox in Atlanta after the 2010 season?

Moderator: Craig,

I didn't vote for Richmond, but I thought it was kind of interesting. The Spiders beat Duke and have dominated I-AA. They probably need to move to I-A.

I'm hoping Terry Pendleton gets a shot in Atlanta. And I hope Bobby Cox goes out with a return to the postseason.

Jimmy, Dallas, TX: Bob, do you plan to still be at the NG when you're as old as Loren?

Can Illinois run the ball vs MN as well as they did against Michigan?

Moderator: Jimmy,

No, no, no. I believe the retirement age is 65 and if I'm still around then, that will be my last day. Then, it's off to watch every Braves game in my DirecTV-loaded Winnebago.

I think Illinois can run the ball against Minnesota if Juice Williams passes the ball well early.

Gene, Champaign, IL: Bob, I have another question regarding the way Illinois holds its practices. An "insider" told me that the team has changed its practices so that our #1's are now going against each other much more often. It sounds like the underclassmen and walk-ons aren't giving the team good "Scout Team" looks. Hearing that, it causes me to wonder how often the team goes "live", to work on "game speed". That used to be standard operating procedure. Any ideas on how Zook's philosophy here?

Moderator: Gene,

That's good information. I think when a team is struggling, the coaches look to change things up. Ron Turner one time had a full scrimmage the Sunday after a blowout loss. The next week was the Rocky Harvey win against Michigan.

Not being in there, I would think the live looks have increased. It sure looked like the team was ready for Michigan on Saturday. The concern, of course, is injuries. But at this point, that's a risk the coaches might be willing to take.

Jack, Clinton, Illinois: Bob, What a pleasant surprise on Saturday.I have to admit I did not expect to see Illinois play like this again this season. It sure felt like this team had lost it's way and quite frankly I wasn't convinced that this coaching staff could get them back on track. I also have to admit I didn't think a win would feel so good but it did help. Having said that, it is only one game and this coaching staff has to be able to get these guys right for every game starting with the first game of the season.If this staff is coming back they have to get their act together in the off season and get prepared coming out of camp to beat Missouri. That first game loss puts a bad taste in everybodys mouth. Finally, do you think we have all overestimated the recruiting the last few years and the over all talent on this team?Do you think the staff has done a poor job with the talent they have? Do you think with a break here and there it could be a complete different season or do you just think they need more players with a strong will to win like Terry Hawthorn? I would love to see him play both ways, by the way.Thanks

Moderator: Jack,

First, I think Terry Hawthorne will play on both sides of the ball during his career, maybe as early as next year. He doesn't ever look tired.

I think Illinois has taken some unexpected hits in recruiting, especially the 2007 class. If more guys were around from that group, it would be a different team.

It's difficult to say how the staff has done with the guys. There has been turnover on the staff and among the players. You don't know what they are being taught and how teachable they are.

I think the performance of the team between now and Dec. 5 will tell you a lot about the talents of the coaching staff. If Illinois wins three and plays well, then you will have to say the coaches did a great job of hanging in there. And that will lead to fewer offseason changes.

Wayne, Springfield, IL: Bob,

Was in Minny for the cal game. Both places are great. Get there.

Moderator: Wayne,

Will do.

DAWG, Peoria, IL: I just read the question regarding Richmond getting a vote! They have a huge matchup against NOVA this weekend. But the matchup that I am interested in is the DAWGS vs Jackrabbits...for those of you that don't know this = SIU vs S. Dakota St.! The winner of this game will likely win the MVFC this year and be a lock for the playoff....yes playoffs!

Looking forward to seeing my DAWGS play the Illini next year. Until then, go DAWGS and go Illini!

Moderator: Dawg,

Is there a better word in our language than Dawg? I don't think so. Maybe "Dude." It's close.

Jim, St. Louis area, Mis-ery: Bob:

Great chat...you're the best. I would like to see the coaches utilize Green more. We should be able to use or develop plays to utilize his talents. I'm afraid we will look back when he hits it big and realize that we "wasted" a year.

Moderator: Jim,

I think Justin Green can do for the offense what Terry Hawthorne does for the defense. Put him in the backfield with Mikel Leshoure and you create a real problem.

Shamous, Waukegan, IL: Bob,

There has been quite a bit of talk about J Leman's speech to the team prior to Saturday's game. Do you think J has any interest in coaching? Zook and Co. would be fools not to take advantage of his loyalty, enthusiasm and knowledge of Illini football. Let's face it, the current, "experienced" coaches aren't making us dread their departure. Zook, Mitchell and Disch are the only valuable recruiters on the staff. Shake things up, bring in some young energy.

Moderator: Shamous,

While I agree that J would be a good coach, I think he wants to continue to try to play in the NFL. Until that ends, he won't be coaching.

illini fan, cinncinatti, ohio: Is Leshoure our next Mendenhall?

Moderator: illini fan,

Maybe. He's a different type of runner, but might be just as effective. And, of course, he wears the same number.

J-Ran, Champaign, Ill.: Bob, love the chats. Terry Pendleton?? Really?

Anyway, what do you think of the Big Mac hiring? I think it's an obvious attempt to make him look better in the eyes of HOF voters. Thoughts?

Moderator: J-Ran,

Yes, T.P. Probably not Ned Yost.

Not so sure about Big Mac with the Cardinals. We'll see. I don't think it will matter to HOF voters. He's got a lot of home runs, but I'm not sure about the rest of it. And the drug questions kill the idea.

Doug, Wheaton, IL: Bob - Did I see the defense use a 3-4 type alignment on 3rd and long situations vs. Michigan? From my vantage point, I recall seeing 3 down linemen and blitzing linebackers. If my eyes were correct, I applaud the coaches for drawing up something different and actually bringing blitzes for once.

Moderator: Doug,

That sounds right. It did seem like there were a whole lot of linebackers in there. I'll ask Dan Disch about it tonight after practice and report back.

I think these coaches are willing to try new things. And I don't think they will go very far away from the plan that just worked against Michigan.

rocky, temecula, ca.: which plAYERS HAVE LEFT THE FOOTBALL PROGRAM THIS YEAR AND WHO ELSE DO YOU EXPECT TO LEAVE AFTER THIS SEASON?

Moderator: Rocky,

Bo Flowers is gone. So is Leon Hill, Ugo Uzodinma and Eric Watts.

There will likely be others after the season or after spring practice, but I think the guys in the first two units will all stay.

Mark Illiniwek, Mahomet, IL: Hi Bob- I've been down on the Illini ever since their "flat as a pancake performance" against Missouri. But after Saturday's win, I thought all phases of the team deserved "A" grades. I was especially surprised the defense received only a "B". What else must the defense do besides pitch a 2nd Half shutout, create some turnovers, and have a 4-down goal line stand in order to get an "A"??

Moderator: Mark,

I'm regrading the defense right now, agreeing with you, and giving them an A. I think we just wanted to spell "ABBA" in the grades.

J.Danforth, Chicago, IL: When it is all said and done, which has more impact at each program (for the Coaches) -- The Illinois win vs. Michigan or the Michigan loss vs. Illinois?

Moderator: J.,

The Michigan loss vs. Illinois. That could have been the end for RichRod. Reporters in the area are speculating he might look for an ACC job after the season. Then, Les Miles or Brian Kelly get the ball to Ann Arbor. Or Jon Gruden.

Cory, Waterloo, Iowa: Are you sure Hill is gone. Almost sure I saw him on the sidelines (#75 right?).

Moderator: Cory,

Thank you for pointing that out. I'm an idiot. He is still on the roster. (Too much Halloween candy).

Toby, Chicago, IL: Bob, you sure Leon Hill is gone? I saw a large dude wearing his number in uniform during the broadcast Saturday.

Moderator: Toby,

Thanks to you too. You guys are good.

P, P-Town, IL: Any idea on Prater's situation at this point after his visit?

Thanks

Moderator: P,

I think it's pretty wide open. I'm hoping to talk to his coach this week. We are strongly considering Kyle for All-State Player of the Year.

Wayne, Springfield, IL: Any word on D lineman and O lineman from the recruiting world. That is where you win football games.

Moderator: Wayne,

I know Illinois has got plenty of offers out there. With three offensive linemen already committed, I think the emphasis will be on the defensive side of the ball between now and signing day.

Warren Buffett, Omaha, NE: Do you think that the struggles with the offense was a reluctance to use Juice on the run? It seems that the offense opens up dramatically when he is running the ball. Was he hurt early in the season?

Moderator: Warren,

Remember that Juice hurt his leg early in the Illinois State game. I wonder if it took him a few games to have that feel better. He isn't going to complain.

When he makes the right read as a runner/pitcher, the Illinois offense is difficult to stop. It just hasn't happened very often. If Juice starts to regain his confidence, Illinois can win a few more games to end the season.

Cory, Waterloo, Iowa: Is Darryl Lee still at a local C.C. in Illinois and working to get on the team next year?

Moderator: Cory,

I have heard that, but haven't been able to confirm it. I will check and get back to you. Email me at asmussen@news-gazette.com.

Moderator: We are out of questions. You all were great again.

Get back to me after Saturday's game.