The college football world readily acknowledges how the Illinois Fighting Illini surprised the nation. Now, can Bret Bielema live up to the hype in 2025? Or will they fade away into Big Ten obscurity?

The Illini showed they can win in more than one way ... “Tre is really good,” Underwood said after the Washington game. “We got to make sure we understand, Tre is a really good player.

and I think we got more motivation to win. Now, we just have to continue on this track and be more aggressive." The tenor around the Illini — outside of Ubben, to be clear — was sour after the ...

Getting healthy isn't always a straight-line journey, but the Illini benefitted from a pair of 'false medicals' at Minnesota ...

However, another European Illini was perhaps equally as impressive in the road win. Illinois center Tomislav ... It was also no coincidence. “We wanted to get Tomi the ball,” Underwood said ...

“We all kind of sensed the ... A two-point win at home against a team whose star guard is in foul trouble is hardly decisive. The Illini will be eager for another shot when MSU visits them ...

With the Illini seemingly ready to turn a corner, their fans are undeniably locked, loaded and dress for the occasion ...