The Illinois football program experienced a significant boost in notoriety this past season, culminating in a 10-3 finish and a victory in the Citrus Bowl against South Carolina. With 16 of 22 starters returning for Bret Bielema's team and a favorable schedule ahead next month, the preseason polls are beginning to reflect a similar vibe for continued success this year.
Cleveland.com's Big Ten preseason media poll saw Illinois' hype be even more evident, as it came in fourth place behind only the Big Ten regular season champion Oregon Ducks, defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes, and a Penn State team that was a few plays away from going to the national title game itself.
This development seems like good news for Bielema and company. After all, Illinois has a manageable schedule that sees it play seven home games, including games against the Buckeyes (ranked No. 2 in the poll) and the USC Trojans (No. 9).
The Illini avoid some major draws, including the Ducks, Nittany Lions, and Michigan Wolverines. These three teams are ranked No. 3, No. 1, and No. 5, respectively, as the Illini went 1-2 against the trio this past season.
Illinois plays in the vast majority of the bottom of the league, a stark contrast to where it was a year ago, when it rose 11 spots.
"Every ballot featured Ohio State making it, while all but one featured Oregon. Illinois and Michigan were both featured on nine ballots, and one featured Indiana," Stephen Means wrote regarding a possible College Football Playoff picture.
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The Illini open the season against Western Illinois Friday, Aug. 29, on Peacock. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.