TURF TALK: While the Illini spend their final few days at Camp Rantoul, the fields back home are being fixed.

   Big chunks of the practice fields east of Memorial Stadium are getting new sod. Illinois coach Ron Turner complained last week about the condition of the field, saying he would like to bring the Camp Rantoul grounds back with him to Champaign.

   The team returns next Wednesday to its home fields.

   IMPORTANT DINNER: The Rantoul community leaders, including Mayor Joe Brown, had dinner with the Illini coaching staff after Thursday''s afternoon practice.

   Mayor Brown and city officials dined with the coaches in a patio area just south of the practice fields.

   PASSING INTEREST: For two days, Kurt Kittner took most of the snaps as the No. 2 quarterback. Jeff Ziegler, hoping to earn the No. 2 job, got back on the field during morning team drills.

   Turner wants to have a clear-cut No. 2 going into the Sept. 5 season opener at Washington State. The only position that appears decided is No. 1, where Mark Hoekstra holds a huge advantage over the other four contenders.

   RUN TO DAYLIGHT: Steve Havard continues to hold the No. 1 spot at halfback, but Jameel Cook isn''t giving up without a fight.

   The Miami product hits the holes hard and fast. He tries to run over the defenders in traffic and tries to evade them when given a chance.

   BANGED UP: Defensive tackle Garrett Johnson returned to practice after being out with a bruised arm. Fullback Chris Hoffman also returned from a slight concussion. Receiver Terrance Smalls is out with a leg injury. Defensive backs Tony Francis and Thomas Robinson also skipped practice because of injuries.

   UP NEXT: The Illini continue double sessions today at 8:30 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. On Saturday, they will have an 8:30 a.m. practice and a 7 p.m. scrimmage. The scrimmage will be at Rantoul High School''s Bill Walsh Field.

 By BOB ASMUSSEN

POLLING PLACE

   We want to know how you think the Illini will fare this season (11 games). Jot down your record and a comment, then reach us at our Web site (www.news-gazette.com), by fax (351-5374) or by mail(Illini Prediction, Sports Department, P.O. Box 677, Champaign, IL, 61820).

   A sampling of the responses turned in so far:

       Record: 7-4

   "This team will be led by underclassmen. Look for Quincy Washington to exceed 1,000 yards this season, Fred Wakefield to top the Big Ten in sacks per game and Lenny Willis to again lead the Illini in total receptions."

          Joe D. Wallis Jr., Champaign

       Record: 4-7

"Bring back Mike White."

 Edward Converse, Minneapolis

       Record: 3-8

   "I hate it, and I hope they do better."

        Richard Evans, Colorado Springs, Colo.

       Record: 2-9

   "I think the transitional process will take more than one year to build a successful program."

        Denise Staske, Champaign

       Record: 1-10

   "We just aren''t getting the players anymore. Looking at recruiting reports for the Big Ten, we finished last in talent again this year. The best players are still going to Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and even Michigan State. We will not be competitive until we get the talent. Ron Turner is a great coach, but football is not like basketball. You have got to have the big-time players to be successful."

        Brian Hardman, LeRoy

BOB ASMUSSEN''S RANTOUL DIARY

   Watching practice day after day might sound tedious. Thankfully, I''m not alone.

   Most days, I can count on Lester Washington to show for the drills. Lester is the father of Illini freshman Quincy Washington and a football expert.

   Lester doesn''t hide his feelings for his son. He''ll usually keep an eye peeled on No. 25, pointing out when he makes the correct cut on a long run.

   Lester''s knowledge doesn''t end with his son. He studies the team and openly shares his opinion. He''s objective about the talent of the Illini and their ability to win.

   Lester was heavily involved in his son''s recruiting. He insisted Quincy go somewhere to both play football and run track. If the coaches of either sport don''t live up to their word, Lester will let them hear about it.

   He isn''t the type to yell at his son during practice and embarrass him. He quietly watches and makes mental notes. When the two have a chance to talk, Lester will pass along some advice.

   If you''re at practice and want to find out what''s going on, move up to one of the high seats on the bleachers near the guy with the cool shades. He''ll tell you truth. And point out No. 25.