After a grueling eight-week stretch that saw them go 2-6, head coach Ron Zook and the Illini are getting a much deserved weekend off. But I’m not sure this will make the rest of the season any easier with Cincinnati and Fresno State looming as the team’s final two opponents. The Bulldogs are bowl-bound and the Bearcats are expected to win the Big East for the second straight year.
But regardless, Illinois’ players can (if they choose) use some of their free time this weekend to take a step back and ponder the last three months. Yes, many will probably think about how much of a disaster this season has been. I mean, losses to Indiana and Purdue? That speaks for itself.
