http://www.illinihq.com/news/football Latest Illini sports stories for IlliniHQ.com en-us Copyright 2009, The News-Gazette, Inc. http://www.illinihq.com/news/rss Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:57:32 PST <p>College football beat writer Bob Asmussen's best Illini bets for the All-Big Ten team, which will be announced Monday.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/20/asmussens_all-big_ten_thoughts/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>An Erin Andrews update.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/20/5_oclock_shadow/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CINCINNATI — A judge is warning Cincinnati sophomore quarterback Zach Collaros that he could be spending the postseason on the bench — in jail.</p> <p>Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge Bernie Bochard told Collaros he must complete a court-ordered program on the dangers of underage drinking by Dec. 7. Or he could face up to 180 days in jail.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/19/cincy_quarterback_in_hot_water/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>— With both the Illinois men's basketball team and the football team playing Friday, Voice of the Illini BRIAN BARNHART won't be able to broadcast both events. Barnhart will work the Illinois-Cincinnati football game with KURT KITTNER and STEVE KELLY. DAVE LOANE will work the Illinois men's basketball games in Las Vegas with JERRY HESTER.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/19/media_notes_destiny_williams_and_all-big_ten_teams/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>Illinois is in danger of failing to place a player on the All-Big Ten first team for the first time since 2005.</p> <p> </p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/19/5_oclock_shadow/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The expenditure line items show how much the Big Ten has developed into a league of the haves (Ohio State, Wisconsin, Penn State, Michigan and Iowa) and the have-nots (Illinois, Northwestern, Purdue, Indiana and Minnesota).</p> <p>The formers spend at least $70 million a year; the latters spend $48 million to $58 million annually. Michigan State ($60.9 million) occupies the middle ground.</p> <p> </p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/18/dollars_and_sense_ui_athletics_a_have-not_in_the_big_ten/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Title game: TCU vs. Texas</strong></p> <p>Go ahead, make fun of the idea of the Texas schools playing for the national title. But until Alabama beats Auburn, we're sticking with it. Texas looks to be on cruise control and won't lose to Kansas, Texas A&M or in the Big 12 title game. Looking at the body of TCU's work, the Clemson win gets better each week and the Horned Frogs beat the two best teams on their schedule (BYU and Utah) by a combined 93-35. That's more than good enough.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/18/bobs_bowl_forecast_texas_rules/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>On Wednesday, online ticket broker StubHub was offering tickets as inexpensive as five cents. At 11 a.m., there were 175 tickets available for $5 or less.</p> <p>Face value tickets are available through the school for $45.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/18/want_to_go_to_the_fresno_state_game_itll_run_you_a_dime_for_two_tickets/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Of the top 10 teams in the BCS standings, Cincinnati, now fifth in the standings, was the only school to top 70 percent in both reports.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/18/ncaa_cincinnatis_smart_too/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>After year-long whining and bleating about "having to travel to Cincinnati in late November," consider the fortuitous aspect of a schedule that allows an underachieving UI football team one last venture into the national spotlight (11 a.m., Nov. 27) ... one grand opportunity to cap a miserable season by engaging a 10-0 Bearcat club on the doorstep of a perfect season.</p> <p>For the weenies who would rather see Illinois play Williams & Mary, with William staying home, Tatelines says "phooey." Go play somebody.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/16/tate_dont_whine_win/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Staff writer Bob Asmussen looks back at Saturday's loss to Northwestern and ahead to Illinois' game at Cincinnati on Nov. 27.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/16/asmussens_review-preview/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Illini-Bearcats set for early kickoff</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/16/cincinnati_game_time_set/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – If Juice Williams is healthy, he will start the Nov. 27 game at Cincinnati.</p> <p>"We'll go into this game with Juice as the quarterback," Ron Zook said Sunday. "I think we owe Juice more than that. He's a warrior. He's a fighter. And he'll be ready to go.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/15/juice_will_start_if_healthy/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Stan Wallace</p> <p>Sunday marks the 78th anniversary of the birth of former Illinois and professional football star Stan Wallace. A native of Hillsboro, Wallace played defensive back and fullback for the Illini under coach Ray Eliot. Two of the three Illinois teams on which Wallace played from 1951 to '53 were successful.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/15/illini_legends_lists_lore_stan_wallace/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – The Illinois coach didn't want to hear it. No complaints about officiating calls. No whining about missed opportunities.</p> <p>His team lost. Period. To Northwestern ... for the sixth time in seven years. The 21-16 victory by the Wildcats eliminated Zook's fifth team from bowl consideration.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/15/zook_blame_me/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how former Illini fared in the NFL in Week 10</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/15/former_illini_in_nfl_week_10/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how Bob Asmussen voted in this week's AP poll and how it compares, plus the Harris, Coaches and BCS polls</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/15/bobs_top_25/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>"I feel bad for those guys," Illini tailback Mikel Leshoure said. "We've got a lot of young guys on the team who don't really know what those guys have been through. The times that they had here at Illinois wasn't all about their Rose Bowl season. They were here when it was two wins. There's not too much I can do now for them."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/ui_notebook_empty_feeling_for_seniors/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p> </p> <p><strong>Final score: Northwestern 21, Illinois 16</strong></p> <p>CHAMPAIGN -- You can put away your shorts and sun screen. The Illinois<br />football team, and presumably its fans, will be home for the holidays.</p> <p> </p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/live_from_memorial_stadium/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Staff writer Jeff Huth will post his grade for Saturday's game tonight, but we can't wait. Let us know your grade <strong><a href="http://illinihq.com/polls/polls.cfm" target="_blank">here</a></strong></p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/give_us_your_grade_vs_northwestern/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>WHAT IT MEANS</strong></p> <p>Illinois won't be playing in a bowl game for the second consecutive year and for the seventh time in eight seasons. Only the 2007 trip to the Rose Bowl breaks up the string. Seniors Jon Asamoah, Dere Hicks, Doug Pilcher, etc., who were hoping for three consecutive postseasons, now can look fondly back at only their sophomore year.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/northwestern_21_illinois_16_a_quick_read/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN - In those opening seconds, when Illinois' 220-pound package of explosiveness careened off a Northwestern tackler and bounded 40 yards to the Illini 41, you could understand Arrelious Benn's status with NFL scouts.</p> <p>He remains a projected Top 20 draft pick, ranking alongside Oklahoma State's suspended Dez Bryant as the 2009 receivers with the best professional potential.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/tate_wheres_benn_been/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>llini's slim bowl hopes go poof, while Wildcats bolster their bowl resume. Pat Fitzgerald's new nickname is "Coach Who Owns the Illini."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/uis_grade_d/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>HOUSTON — The NFL fined Houston Texans safety Eugene Wilson $5,000 for hitting Colts tight end Dallas Clark during last weekend's game.</p> <p>The former Illini was penalized for unnecessary roughness for the hit, which came in the second quarter and the Colts leading 13-0. Indianapolis won the game 20-17.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/texans_wilson_fined/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – A last-gasp Illini drive ended in a controversial interception ruling that was supported by the replay official.</p> <p>With less than 40 seconds left in the game and Illinois facing fourth and 1 at its own 30, Jacob Charest threw to Jarred Fayson near the right sideline. The line judge ruled that Fayson, who fell to the field while trying to make the catch, never had possession of the ball. With the ball still on Fayson's body, Wildcats cornerback Sherrick McManis grabbed it for what was ruled an interception. Because the ball had yet to touch the field, it remained a "live" ball.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/refs_on_int_no_indisputable_video_evidence/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – It sits in the Northwestern football offices. Peacefully. It might be there 100 years from now. All we know for sure is that the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk isn't coming back this way.</p> <p>The trophy, established in 1945, has been retired. The replacement, the Land of Lincoln Trophy, will be unveiled during today's game. Somebody will take it home.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/out_with_the_old_in_with_the_new/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Trailing 21-9 in the fourth quarter, Illinois needed points in a hurry for any chance to get back into the game. It was understandable, then, that the crowd expressed its unhappiness whenever a running play was called. It didn't help the crowd's mood that little came of those ground attempts.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/further_review_its_going_to_be_cold_dec_5/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>LOOKING GOOD: Minnesota. Sure, the fans want Tim Brewster fired after another dismal performance. But for the second consecutive season, the Gophers have reached the required six wins, which means another month of practice and a faraway trip. Illinois, which hasn't made bowls in back-to-back seasons since who knows when, would love to trade places.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/14/rossows_big_ten_report_hail_jim_tressel/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The Wildcats have owned the Illini in recent years, winning five of the last six games between the schools. The permanent owners of the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk will take the Land of Lincoln Trophy too, winning 32-28 (N-G record: 5-4).</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/hq_prediction_northwestern_32-28/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>It can happen. You can come off the pace and earn yourself a bowl bid.</p> <p>In 2008, nine schools were under .500 after nine games and still made it to bowls. Two schools, North Carolina State and Southern Miss, were 3-6. The rest were 4-5.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/asmussen_odds_of_ui_making_a_bowl_10_percent/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>News and notes from Friday afternoon at Memorial Stadium:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/final_word_from_memorial_stadium/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Q: Jacob Charest is in your class. How's he doing?</p> <p>A: He's doing good. He's got a lot of confidence. The first time I met him, I kind of laughed because of Hoover High School and how they have their hair. I thought he was from Alabama.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/jason_ford_qa/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Will the victor run around the field with the Land of Lincoln Trophy?</strong></p> <p>Let's hope so. Why should Minnesota and Wisconsin get all the fun. Of course, there is much less danger carrying around a stovepipe hat than there is carrying a giant ax. Unless it drops on somebody. That wouldn't be good. Illinois currently holds none of the three trophies it plays for. Purdue has the Cannon, and Ohio State has the Illibuck.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/illinois-northwestern_5_keys/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>EA Sports' NCAA Football 2010 says ...</strong></p> <p>Illinois 12, Northwestern 3. Matt Eller kicks field goals of 31, 43, 30 and 35 yards and the Illini defense holds Northwestern to 123 yards of total offense. The Illini record five sacks, with Corey Liuget getting two. Illinois wins despite three turnovers. Northwestern quarterback Mike Kafka completes 10 of 24 passes for 115 yards and an interception, the lone turnover for the Wildcats. Northwestern's lone score comes on a field goal in the second quarter.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/13/asmussens_insider_video_game_likes_the_illini/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Jacob Charest, a month removed from quiet practices and a low profile on campus, suddenly finds himself the center of attention. That's what happens when you go from third-string to first-string quarterback at a Big Ten school.</p> <p>"It's actually sometimes kind of awkward because people will just look at me," Charest said. "I'm like, 'Are you going to say hey? I'll say hey. I'm a friendly guy.' "</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/12/charest_soaking_it_all_in/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Looks like Notre Dame position might open. Any chance Pat Fitzgerald goes there?</strong></p> <p>This is a really interesting question. My initial response is, no way. I know that may sound silly to some, but hear me out. Fitz went to NU, he got the aforementioned extension, he is popular, he is seemingly happy and he ends most of his interviews with an endearing (if a bit hokey) "Go Cats!" He really, honestly, truly seems to bleed purple.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/12/inside_northwestern_pat_fitzgerald_on_the_rise/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – No. 5 has been good for Illinois running back Mikel Leshoure. So, No. 5 is going to give back.</p> <p>After Saturday's game against Northwestern, Leshoure and his family will be giving five hams and five turkeys to both the Times Center and the Center for Women in Transition. The downtown Champaign facilities provide food and shelter for homelesss men and women, respectively.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/12/leshoure_giving_back/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Sports editor Jim Rossow's weekly look around Big Ten football:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/12/jim_rossows_big_ten_football_report/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Ron Zook's program might not make the postseason, but this Illini cheerleader is in the running for a national title. The spunky senior is the Big Ten's representative in Athlon Sports' Sideline Spirit contest. If she wins – you can vote today at athlonsports.com/spirit – the Atwood-Hammond High product will deliver money and prizes to her Illinois cheerleading team. Sports editor JIM ROSSOW caught up to the daughter of Sam and Vickie Anderson of Garrett to discuss the rigors of cheerleading, the Illini's chances of making a bowl game and this weekend's busy schedule.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/12/10_questions_for_kristina_anderson/ Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The Boss (not Bruce Springsteen) said "What happens if Illinois wins its final three?" Here's what happens: a trip to Tempe to play the No. 6 pick from the Big 12. How much fun would it be to spend a week in the desert with Bill Snyder? He's got all the personality of that desk you are sitting at, but you've got to admire him coming out of retirement and making Kansas State relevant again.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/11/bowl_forecast_illinois_vs_kansas_state_in_the_insight/ Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN — Illinois football coach Ron Zook now says he's cautiously optimistic that quarterback Juice Williams will play Saturday against Northwestern.</p> <p>Zook told reporters Tuesday that Williams' ankle is improving faster than originally expected. The coach had told reporters on Monday that Williams was doubtful for Saturday after hurting the ankle last weekend in a 35-32 win over Minnesota.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/10/zook_juice_questionable/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>You know Southern Illinois as a basketball school. But the Salukis are continuing to play great football. DALE LENNON's team moved to No. 1 in the latest I-AA rankings, edging past Montana. With a chance to host, they should make a long run in the I-AA playoffs. Southern Illinois' lone loss was a three-point game in the opener at Marshall. They have been rolling ever since, scoring an important win at Northern Iowa and beating their opponents by an average of 23 points. Illinois fans will get to see the Salukis on Sept. 11, 2010 at Memorial Stadium.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/10/asmussens_insider_all_hail_siu/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>Vanderberg ready for first Iowa start</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/10/5_oclock_shadow/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CINCINNATI — Quarterback Zach Collaros will start for fifth-ranked Cincinnati against West Virginia on Friday night, with Tony Pike expected to play as well for the first time since he hurt his non-throwing arm.<br /> Coach Brian Kelly announced Collaros will be his starter Tuesday. The sophomore backup has played spectacularly and kept the Bearcats (9-0) in the national title conversation while Pike heals from surgery to replace a metal plate in his left forearm.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/10/pike_on_target_to_start_against_illini/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Such a fuss!</p> <p>Reaction to my "open letter" to Illini coach Ron Zook on Oct. 28 keeps reverberating to the point where I'm influenced to look back and see what it's all about. We'll call this the Stem-winder Sequel.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/09/tate_i_stand_by_my_letter/ Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – This time, it's different. Instead of waiting on the sidelines for the call to go in, Jacob Charest will likely be the quarterback on the field at the start of the game.</p> <p>"It doesn't feel too much different," Charest said. "I just know a lot more of the responsibility is on me this week."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/09/charest_likely_to_start/ Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – Jacob Charest could be getting his first college start Saturday against Northwestern.</p> <p>The status of starting quarterback Juice Williams, who injured his left ankle at Minnesota, remains "day to day," Illinois coach Ron Zook said Sunday.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/08/charest_in_line_to_start/ Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how Bob Asmussen voted in this week's AP poll — and how it compares to the national rankings</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/08/bobs_top_25/ Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen looks back at Saturday's win at Minnesota and ahead to Saturday's game against Northwestern</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/08/asmussens_review-preview/ Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how former Illini fared in the NFL in Week 9</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/08/former_illini_in_nfl_week_9/ Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS – Northwestern. Cincinnati. Fresno State.</p> <p>Beat those three teams, which were a combined 19-7 going into late Saturday, and Illinois will have a postseason. The most improbable in school history.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/illini_still_showing_fight/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS -- A bowl bid is still an option. Not likely. But an option.</p> <p>Illinois kept its slim postseason hopes alive Saturday, edging Minnesota 35-32 on a sunny day at TCF Bank Stadium. The Illini, who played most of the game without starting quarterback Juice Williams, dominated the first three quarters and held on for the win.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/live_from_minneapolis_illinois_35_minnesota_32/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen is back in the pressbox at TCF Bank Stadium after the Illini's 35-32 win against Minnesota. He'll take your questions at 4 p.m., but submit them now.</p> <p>Also, go ahead and grade the Illini. I'll give them a B-plus for their first road win of the season.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/give_us_a_grade/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>WHAT'S NEXT</strong></p> <p>Fired up Northwestern visits Memorial Stadium a week after ending Iowa's hopes for a BCS title spot. The plucky would love nothing more than to end Illinois' bowl hopes. That's not all the teams are playing for. The winner will get the first-ever Land of Lincoln Trophy, which will be unveiled this week. It replaces the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk, which stays forever in Evanston.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/illinois_35_minnesota_32_a_quick_read/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Illinois went on the road and won a Big Ten football game. For the first time Oct. 4, 2008. The way the game ended, with the Gophers getting close, will give the Illinois coaches something to harp on during practice. The Tim Brewster Era is not bringing back memories of Bernie Bierman.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/illini_grade_a/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Saturday dawned as a bright new day for the Illini in sunny Minneapolis.</p> <p>Where once concerns festered over weak punting, hurtful fumbles, too many sacks and an inability to gain turnovers, Illinois flipped the tables on Tim Brewster and the Gophers, 35-32.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/tate_trudeau_enjoys_the_view_well_kind_of/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>News and notes from Saturday's game in Minneapolis</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/illinois-minnesota_notebook/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS – He figured he was going to get into the game. Jacob Charest just didn't know when.</p> <p>The answer was earlier than expected.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/charest_makes_most_of_chance/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>DEFENSE, Illinois. Josh Brent, Clay Nurse, Terry Hawthorne ... wish we had more room to keep the list going. Illini haven't been so stingy against the rush (50 yards) against a Division I team since giving up 40 to Penn State on Oct. 21, 2006.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/rossows_big_ten_report/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS – One more loss and the bowl bid goes away. Then what for the Illinois football team?</p> <p>Moping doesn't do you much good. Getting angry at everyone won't help either. So, they look for a model. And follow it. Like Mack Brown.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/07/its_game_day_illinois_still_has_plenty_to_play_for/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen's news and notes from Friday afternoon in Minneapolis</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/final_word_new_stadium_is_nice/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>This week, HQ recruiting expert Jeremy Werner analyzed where Illinois stood with the prep football stars still looking for a school.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/illinois_football_recruiting_a_midseason_checkup_defense/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Someone has to win it.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/give_us_your_illinois_football_mvp/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Will Tim Brewster overprepare for the Illini?</strong></p> <p>Probably. Though he might not admit it this week, the game means more to the former Illini tight end than any other. He was interested in being the Illinois coach. When that didn't happen, he found a nice job in the Big Ten. As long as he coaches the Gophers, the game against Illinois will be a big deal to the players and the staff. Unfortunately, after next year's game, the teams will take a two-year break.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/ui-minnesota_5_keys/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>NDIANAPOLIS — Veteran Colts cornerback Kelvin Hayden, a former Illini, is expected to be sidelined for the next three to four weeks after he suffered a sprained knee during the 18-14 win against San Francisco.</p> <p>Hayden is not expected to undergo surgery.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/colts_hayden_out_close_to_month/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico changed its human resources policies in the wake of an altercation involving football coach Mike Locksley.<br /> University President David Schmidly said Friday that personnel issues previously handled by the athletic department now must go through the school’s Division of Human Resources.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/new_mexico_changes_policy/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>When's Minnesota going to tear down that dump Williams Arena?</strong></p> <p>Why not ask when Minnesota is going to close all its lakes, disown Garrison Keillor and burn its hockey sticks? Williams Arena is an icon. Would you tear down the Alma Mater? Or Papa Del's? It's the Barn, my friend. It's the raised court. It's the history. Is it a little dated? Perhaps. But it's on campus – and at least it's not the Metrodome.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/inside_minnesota_locker_rooms_the_size_of_decatur/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>His old school is kicking butt and taking names.</p> <p>This year, TCU must stand for Texans Confidentially Undefeated or Totally Cruising Underdogs.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/asmussen_no_regrets_for_schultz/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>News-Gazette Top 25</p> <p>After a long break, The News-Gazette again is voting in The Associated Press poll. Here are the teams staff writer Bob Asmussen rates as the nation's best:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/asmussens_insider_ncaa_football_2010_says_minnesota_45_illinois_14/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Q: Like Hammer sings, are you too legit, too legit to quit?</p> <p>A: I hear that almost every day in practice. The coaches, the players and even some of the students when I'm going to class.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/qa_with_corey_liuget/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Had Illinois played all season the way it did against Michigan, it would be the pick here. But last Saturday's win might not be the start of a trend. Weber has another big game and the Gophers hold on for a 35-28 victory. (N-G record: 5-3).</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/06/hq_prediction_minnesota_35-28/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>What happens first, the Vikings winning a Super Bowl or the Gophers winning a national championship?</strong></p> <p>That's a tough one. I would say it's almost 50-50 but I'd have to lean to the Vikings because they have Brett Favre. They could maybe do it this year with some luck along the way. With the coaching staff they have, and the way they're recruiting these days, the (Gophers) are going to have a chance pretty soon.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/05/10_questions_for_darrell_thompson/ Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Making the cover of Sports Illustrated isn't always a good thing, jinx experts will tell you. So it's no surprise some Iowa fans are nervous to see Derrell Johnson-Koulianos and Wade Leppert on the cover of this week's SI. My question: Since SI started regionalizing its covers, does the notion of a jinx still float? After all, Iowa made the cover on SIs distributed in only nine Midwestern states (including Illinois). Derek Jeter is the cover boy in 41 states.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/05/jim_rossows_big_ten_football_report_si_jinx_for_iowa/ Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>For the next two days, HQ recruiting expert Jeremy Werner will analyze where Illinois stands with the prep football stars still looking for a school.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/04/illinois_football_recruiting_a_midseason_checkup/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Notre Dame vs. Boise State</strong></p> <p>We were all set to put Penn State in this spot. But what happens if Ohio State beats the Nittany Lions this weekend, then loses at Michigan State in the season finale? Then, it's off to the Capital One Bowl for JoePa. Which leaves an open spot in the BCS for the Irish. But only if they win the rest of their games to get to 10-2. That means winning at Pitt and Stanford. Possible.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/04/bobs_bowl_forecast_notre_dame_in_the_fiesta/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — University of New Mexico President David Schmidly said Wednesday an attorney representing an assistant football coach sent a letter offering “continued media silence” for a $500,000 settlement in a dispute with head football coach Mike Locksley.<br /> Schmidly said the overture was rejected.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/04/new_mexico_rejects_settlement_offer/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Staff writer Bob Asmussen's weekly look at the game he loves:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/04/asmussens_insider_kiffin_vols_get_job_done/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – Josh Brent, the UI's large defensive tackle from Bloomington, spoke honestly about a confusing football season: "I can't put a finger on why we weren't winning, and I don't know what happened Saturday because we didn't really change anything (in defeating Michigan)."</p> <p>Confusing? Well, consider that Minnesota drew a Big Ten-record 17 penalties Saturday and, calling up reserves to replace injured star Eric Decker, produced 416 aerial yards to rock Michigan State 42-34. Adam Weber fired five TD passes, matching Juice Williams' total for the season, with three of them coming from 62, 59 and 37 yards.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/04/offense_surge_out_of_thin_air/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Twice a week, we'll spotlight an Illini-related video on YouTube.</p> <p>Today: Danny Clark goes shopping in New York City.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/03/youtube_and_the_illini/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota defensive back Michael Carter will be allowed to play against Illinois despite his arrest this week outside a campus pizza parlor.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/03/despite_arrest_gopher_will_play_against_illinois/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Legend celebrates No. 78</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/03/happy_birthday_to_loren/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p> MINNEAPOLIS — The ball bounced off tight end Nick Tow-Arnett's chest and into the air, landing right in the hands of running back Duane Bennett.<br /> As Bennett raced the final 35 yards for a 59-yard touchdown pass, Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber had to smile and shrug. For perhaps the first time in what he calls a frustrating season, the ball finally bounced his way.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/03/things_starting_to_bounce_webers_way/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Chargers signed rookie linebacker James Holt from the practice squad to fill the roster spot created when receiver Chris Chambers was released.</p> <p>The Chargers signed former Illini linebacker J Leman to the practice squad.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/03/chargers_sign_leman_to_practice_squad/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The point to remember today is that one game does not a crisis avert. Not when it came against an opponent also drowning in turmoil. In case you missed it, Michigan is 3-10 in Big Ten play under Rich Rodriguez.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/02/tate_bowl_bid_get_serious_folks/ Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A 4-0 finish makes Illinois bowl eligible. However, the Illini will be underdogs in at least two of their final four games.</p> <p>Tell us how you have them finishing here</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/02/how_will_zooks_illini_finish/ Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – The e-mails were easier to open for Ron Zook on Sunday. Much less likely they would start with some kind of nasty remark. More like "Congratulations."</p> <p>"There have been a lot of e-mails," the Illinois coach said during his Sunday teleconference. "I've been getting a lot of e-mails regardless, both win and lose. They've just been a little bit nicer now."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/fans_go_easier_on_zook_after_win/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at this week's football polls — and how Bob Asmussen voted and why</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/bobs_top_25/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen looks back to Saturday's win against Michigan and ahead to Illinois' trip to Minnesota.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/asmussens_review-preview/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how former Illini fared in the NFL in Week 8</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/former_illini_in_nfl_week_8/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – Rich Rodriguez stopped by Saturday and took Ron Zook's "hot seat" back to Ann Arbor with him.</p> <p>It's an old story. No matter how serious your problems, someone else is worse off.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/tate_this_was_a_reversal_of_illini_fortunes/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>On this date in Illini history</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/11/01/illini_legends_lists_lore/ Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Rundown by cornerback sets up Illinois win</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/hawthorne_saves_illini_day/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – The losses have come in all shapes and sizes.</p> <p>Some close (eight decided by a touchdown or less). Some blowouts (margins of 57, 32, 28 and 24 twice). Some controversial (Bill LeMonnier and crew's blown fumble calls in 2000).</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/illini_tricked_rarely_treated_against_michigan/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>FINAL: Illinois 38, Michigan 13</strong></p> <p>CHAMPAIGN -- It looked like an easy touchdown. Michigan receiver Roy Roundtree had about a 10-yard lead on the defense. But Terry Hawthorne didn't quit. The Illinois freshman dragged down Roundtree at the 1, setting up one of the most unbelievable turnarounds in Illinois football history.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/live_from_memorial_stadium/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Got a question? Ask beat writer Bob Asmussen after the game. His chat starts at 7:30 p.m.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/ask_asmussen/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Give us your grade</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/grade_the_illini/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Marcus Jackson's take on Saturday's victory</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/further_review/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>LOOKING BAD: Michigan. Oh, my. September must seem like so long ago for Rich Rodriguez and the once-promising Wolverines. They must win one of their last three (Purdue, Wisconsin and Ohio State) to become bowl eligible. The way they're going, that isn't a gimme.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/tony_bleills_big_ten_report/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The Illini showed what they were capable of as another loss would have sent an already-frustrated fan base over the edge. The performance begs the question – why haven't the Illini played this way all year?</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/illini_grade_a/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>* * *</strong></p> <p>Jeff Cumberland came to Illinois as a tight end, but during the Rose Bowl season in 2007, the Illini coaches felt they could take advantage of the 6-foot-5, 255-pounder's unique skill set and create some mismatches by moving him to receiver.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/illinois-michigan_notebook/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – He's had bigger games. More yards. More touchdowns.</p> <p>But there haven't been many better games for Juice Williams than Saturday's against Michigan. A year after setting the Michigan Stadium record for total offense, the Illinois quarterback got his second win against the Wolverines.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/31/juice_gets_redemption/ Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Here's a scary Halloween story: Tens of thousands of (possibly frustrated) football fans will be driving through Champaign-Urbana just as costumed children hit the streets.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/a_traffic_nightmare_ui_game_collides_with_trick_or_treat/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Who's to blame for the football program's nosedive? Guenther, Zook, Tate? Let us know by voting here.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/whos_to_blame_let_us_know/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>To his credit, Williams hasn't changed. Sure, he's a bit down after games. But the smile is still there. Maybe not as bright, but it's still there.</p> <p>You get the feeling he will snap out of it. Fire pass after pass down field to his "7-to-9" cohort Arrelious Benn. Run like he did in 2007 against Ohio State. Pass like he did in 2008 against Missouri (451 yards) and Minnesota (462). Lead. Dominate.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/asmussen_juice_still_trying/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Proviso West receiver rated nation's No. 2 player by Rivals.com</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/prater_visiting_illinois/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen's news and notes from Friday afternoon at Memorial Stadium:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/final_word_from_memorial_stadium/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>It will be close into the third quarter, with the home crowd giving the Illini a boost. But Michigan will wear down the Illini in the second half, with Tate Forcier throwing a pair of touchdown passes in a 35-21 victory. (N-G record: 5-2).</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/hq_prediction_michigan_35-21/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>News-Gazette Top 25</p> <p>After a long break, The News-Gazette again is voting in The Associated Press poll. Here are the teams staff writer Bob Asmussen rates as the nation's best:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/asmussens_insider_ncaa_football_2010_like_illinois/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Fans will be fans, so yes, everyone got a little too excited after the 4-0 start, thinking Michigan had arrived under Rich Rodriguez. What they forget was how young and thin this roster is. More than losses, the way they've happened has been hard to swallow. In overtime against Michigan State. On the last drive to Iowa when Tate Forcier was on the bench. And then no one expected the blowout last week against Penn State.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/inside_michigan_fans_still_doubting_rich_rodriguez/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Did the vote of confidence for Ron Zook help to relax the Illini?</strong></p> <p>Certainly, the Illinois players had been hearing rumors about the future of the coaching staff. On campus, at the mall or in the grocery store, it has been a common topic. Now that Ron Guenther has said the Zook will be back, the players should be more comfortable with their situation. Will it change the way they play? You'll know about five minutes into the game.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/30/michigan-illinois_5_keys/ Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>When he phoned Ron Guenther last week, the intent was to set up a dinner date this weekend in Champaign. Instead, Mason got the scoop on Ron Zook, breaking the news that the Illinois coach would be retained through 2010. Sports editor JIM ROSSOW caught up with the 59-year-old former Minnesota coach – and current Big Ten Network analyst – this week to discuss Zook's problems, Guenther's motives and his future.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/talking_shop_with_glen_mason/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Twice a week, we'll spotlight an Illini-related video.</p> <p>Today: <span>Illini comeback win at </span><span>Michigan</span><span> 1993 Football</span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span></span><span><strong></strong></span></p> </p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/youtube_and_the_illini/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>DALLAS — Illinois offensive guard Jon Asamoah is among 14 finalists for the Campbell Trophy, given to the nation's top senior scholar-athlete in college football.</p> <p>The Campbell Trophy is presented by the National Football Foundation. The winner receives $25,000 in scholarship money.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/asamoah_a_campbell_trophy_finalist/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Q: What did you think of the 2005 Illinois-North Carolina basketball title game?</p> <p>A: I was in seventh or eighth grade. My dad was a huge N.C. State fan. What he used to do back when State was good and they were winning all those championships, he would make a shrine in front of the TV of N.C. State stuff. I was a big Carolina basketball fan. My dad told me to make a shrine in front of the TV for the basketball game. I did and Carolina won. I was rooting for Carolina. I would have to root for Illinois now.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/jacob_charest_qa/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Peppers expects Cooper to sign with Illini</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/guenthers_words_impress_proviso_east_coach/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Sports editor Jim Rossow's weekly look around Big Ten football:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/29/jim_rossows_big_ten_football_report/ Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan cornerback Boubacar Cissoko has been kicked off the team after being suspended earlier this month.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/28/michigan_gives_cornerback_the_boot/ Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Florida vs. Texas</p> <p>We're back with the Gators, especially since we now know they've got the SEC officials on their side. Texas might not even to send its best players to the Big 12 title game. The North leader now is Kansas State, which earlier this season lost to Louisiana and beat UMass by four. Yuck.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/28/bowl_forecast_dont_mess_with_texas/ Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can''t leave work without:</strong></p> <p>Glen Mason is OK with Ron Guenther coming out in support of his football coach at midseason. Now the pressure's on Zook, the Big Ten Network analyst said.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/28/5_oclock_shadow/ Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Twice a week, we'll spotlight an Illini-related video on YouTube.</p> <p>Today: Vernon and Vontae Davis</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/youtube_and_the_illini/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>MINNEAPOLIS— Minnesota star wide receiver Eric Decker will miss the rest of the regular season because of a foot injury.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/decker_out_for_season/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>116. Illinois (1-6)</p> <p>-  RON ZOOK's team makes its first appearance. All it will take to get out is a win Saturday against Michigan. Or the following Saturday against Minnesota. Or the Saturday after that against Northwestern.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/asmussens_insider_illinois_finally_in_my_bottom_5/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>Ron Zook isn't saying who will start at quarterback against Michigan. Or, for that matter, who will kick.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/5_oclock_shadow/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>SAN FRANCISCO  — The San Francisco 49ers have taken a big blow to their already struggling offensive line, losing right tackle Tony Pashos for the season with a broken left shoulder blade.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/pashos_out_for_the_season/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Dear Coach Zook,</p> <p>Here's the best deal you'll get this week. Beat Michigan on Saturday and all is forgiven. OK, maybe not all, but a long overdue triumph would certainly take pressure off you and your boss.</p> <p>This is the stadium, remember, that was dedicated with a 39-14 defeat of the Wolverines. Red Grange ran wild. It was here that the Illini upset Tommy Harmon & Co., 7-0, in 1936. It was on this snow-covered field that Tommy O'Connell passed to Rex Smith for a 7-0 win in the UI's last undefeated season of 1951. There is history in this series, but it is long-ago history. Now, all these decades later, we look back on a single home win – 16-6 in 1983 – in the last 51 years.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/27/tate_an_open_letter_to_coach_zook/ Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez says center David Molk, a former News-Gazette All-Stater from Lemont, is out for the season after tearing a ligament in his right knee against Penn State.</p> <p>Rodriguez said Monday that Molk will not participate in spring drills because of the injury.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/26/michigans_molk_out_for_season/ Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Game starts at 11 a.m.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/26/illinois-minnesota_time_set/ Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>Though you might hear about players reconsidering their commitments to the Illinois football team, Andy Gallik won't be one of those guys.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/26/5_oclock_shadow/ Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Bob Asmussen looks back at Illlinois' loss to Purdue and ahead to this weekend's game against Michigan</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/25/asmussens_review-preview/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – You will see Jacob Charest on the field for Illinois against Michigan. And you will see Juice Williams on the field against Michigan.</p> <p>Which one will start? That's the unknown for coach Ron Zook going into the week of practice.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/25/juice_charest_to_split_time_again/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Ten UI football heroes vs. Michigan</p> <p>Although the Illinois-Michigan football series has been dominated by the Wolverines (66-22-2), the Illini have had their share of gridiron heroes. Last season, Illinois scored 45 points against Michigan, the most the Illini have put up against the Wolverines in school history.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/25/illini_legends_lists_lore_those_were_the_days/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>A look at how former Illini fared in the NFL in Week 7</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/25/former_illini_in_nfl_week_7/ Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>LOOKING BAD: State of Michigan. Neither the Spartans nor Wolverines are bowl eligible yet. And if they do sneak in, Detroit might be as far as they get. Like Illinois, they're basketball schools.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/jim_rossows_big_ten_report/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Illinois athletic director addresses Zook speculation</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/guenther_no_change_at_top/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>FINAL: Purdue 24, Illinois 14</strong></p> <p>WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — On the day Illinois athletic director Ron Guenther promised that Ron Zook would be back for the 2010 season, the Illini dropped their sixth game of the season.</p> <p>The Illini finished 0-for-Indiana, with Purdue winning 24-14 at Ross-Ade Stadium. A week ago, the Illini dropped a 27-14 game at Indiana.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/live_from_west_lafayette/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Give us your grade vs. Purdue</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/give_us_your_grade_vs_purdue/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – On the field, the Illinois coach was losing his ninth consecutive game against a Division I-A opponent and moving with one loss of being eliminated from bowl consideration for the fourth time in five seasons.</p> <p>In the press box at halftime, Ron Zook was being given another year by his athletic director, Ron Guenther.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/zook_illini_cant_back_up_the_ads_talk/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Outgoing University of Illinois Chancellor Richard Herman, who steps down Monday, was asked about the status of football coach Ron Zook in a wide-ranging interview last week with News-Gazette staff writer Julie Wurth. Here's what he said:</p> <p>If you were still going to be chancellor, what would you do about the football coach?</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/richard_herman_weighs_in/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>News flash: College football is a 60-minute game. It's understandable they're looking for positives in a season gone wrong. But the Illini – like they were after Michigan State – were boasting about how well they played in the second half of a loss. True, they limited the Boilers to 49 yards rushing in the second half, but what about the 171 they allowed in the first half? Got to get it going from the start.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/upon_further_review_this_is_getting_ridiculous/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Jacob Charest played for the first time in his college career on Saturday. It apparently won't be his last appearance.</p> <p>"I thought he did a nice job," Illinois coach Ron Zook said. "He made some nice plays.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/ui-purdue_notes_charest_did_a_nice_job/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>WEST LAFAYETTE, IND. – It hasn't been the kind of season anybody expected for Illinois. Seventeen Associated Press voters had the team in the preseason Top 25, including one who picked it 12th. College football expert Phil Steele predicted a bounceback season and a possible run at a perfect record.</p> <p>The fans bought in too, gobbling up tickets and filling the message boards with their hopes and dreams. It was difficult to find folks who didn't believe.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/midterm_mark_has_everyone_befuddled/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Not a terrible performance, but still a disappointing one. This was Purdue after all – on the heels of Indiana after all. We thought the Illini would come out fired up in light of the athletic director's vote of confidence in Ron Zook. Didn't happen, though, and now Michigan comes to town.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/ui_grade_d/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>In their earlier meeting, Guenther reportedly told his coach that everything would be done after the season to give Zook a chance to turn it around. This is construed to mean that Zook will have financial support to make any staff changes he deems necessary. Both coordinator jobs are believed to be in play, and Guenther's halftime remarks supported that line of thinking: "We'll evaluate everything at the end, and there'll be changes, but we won't make a change at the top. That isn't going to happen."</p> <p>Under the circumstances, with the university administration in upheaval, Guenther's word goes almost unchallenged on the campus.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/24/tate_ad_talks_but_is_anyone_listening/ Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>"Jacob is going to play," Illinois coach RON ZOOK said Friday evening at the team headquarters in Lafayette, Ind. "He's practiced well this week and done a good job. I think he deserves a chance.</p> <p>"I'm going to start Juice because of the immense pressure that we don't want to put Jacob under. But I'm excited about the package we have for (Charest). We did some things against our defense this week that I think it will be interesting to see what happens."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/final_word_charest_will_play/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Can Illinois hit double digits in the first half?</strong></p> <p>It hasn't during any of the previous five games against Division I-A teams. No statistic should trouble Illinois fans more than the 13 points the team has put up in the first halves against I-A. The 7-3 lead against Indiana was the first time the Illini had led against a I-A team.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/illinois-purdue_5_keys/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>According to Glen Mason of the Big Ten Network, Ron Zook's job is safe at Illinois.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/mason_zook_in_no_danger_of_getting_fired/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>CHAMPAIGN – Ron Zook and the Illini make the short trip to Purdue this weekend aboard a runaway train that is seemingly hurtling downhill toward a crash-and-burn ending.</p> <p>Somebody please hit the brakes. Quick! The Big Ten losing streak reached six with a 27-14 loss to Indiana, a team that was a 55-13 victim a year ago. And if the Illini are frustrated and downcast, Purdue is uplifted overnight by a 26-18 upset of Ohio State. The UI's pass defense, last in the Big Ten, now faces a fifth-year senior, Joey Elliott, who completed 31 passes against the Buckeyes.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/if_change_is_necessary_let_ad_make_it/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>The Boilermakers have already had their breakthrough moment. It will continue as Elliott hits open receivers and the Boilermakers take a big early lead. The Illini will score in the first half, but it won't be enough as Purdue earns a 34-10 win.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/hq_prediction_purdue_34-10/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>You would like to say you saw it coming. That it wasn't a surprise. But you would be lying. It's what makes college football, and sports for that matter, so great. Unpredictability.</p> <p>Nobody saw Illinois' Rose Bowl season coming in 2007. And nobody saw the just as swift decline in 2009.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/asmussen_misery_loves_company/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>News you can't leave work without:</strong></p> <p>NCAA Football 2010 says ... Purdue 14, Illinois 7.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/5_oclock_shadow/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Did Gene Keady storm the field after the big win?</strong></p> <p>Coach Keady was in attendance. If he was a little younger, I could see him in the middle of the student body, pumping his fist in the air and shouting "Boiler Up."</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/23/inside_purdue_keady_pumped_up/ Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><em>The News-Gazette All-State Player of the Year in 2008 has jumped right into college football, at a position other than the one he expected to play. Former East St. Louis star Terry Hawthorne is helping the Illini as a cornerback and on kick returns. His load is much lighter than in high school, when he played offense, defense and all of the special teams. But it's early.</em></p> <p>Q: If I had told you in the summer you'd be playing cornerback, what would have been your response?</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/22/qa_with_terry_hawthorne/ Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>Sports editor Jim Rossow weekly look around Big Ten football:</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/22/jim_rossows_big_ten_football_report/ Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>One of the most powerful figures in college sports isn't interested in leaving his job as Big Ten commissioner to run the NCAA. On the job since 1989, the former North Carolina basketball player still has work to do in the Big Ten, from fine-tuning the conference's television network to figuring out what to do with its men's basketball tournament. Sports editor JIM ROSSOW tracked down Delany this week to discuss Illinois' struggles in football, Iowa's chances of making the BCS title game and the commissioner's future.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/22/questions_for_jim_delany/ Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p>If Illinois decides to make another coaching change, who would you like to see take over the football program.</p> <p> </p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/21/if_zook_goes_whos_next/ Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST <p><strong>Cincinnati vs. Penn State</strong></p> <p>The Nittany Lions used to invite the Bearcats to State College for a nonconference pounding. Now, they are on a level playing field. If Brian Kelly wins another 300 games or so, he'll catch Joe Paterno. At his current pace, the legend will win No. 400 early next season. He's 11 away with six more this season. The fifth opponent in 2010: at Iowa. The sixth opponent: Illinois.</p> http://www.illinihq.com/news/football/2009/10/21/bowl_forecast_penn_state_in_the_fiesta/ Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CST