2008 record: 9-4, 6-2 (tie-2nd in Big Ten)
2007 bowl: Lost to USC 49-17 in Rose Bowl
2007 final AP/coaches' ranking: 20/18
Coach: Ron Zook (13-23, 3 years; 36-37 overall)
Offensive coordinator: Mike Locksley (4th year)
Co-defensive coordinators: Dan Disch (4th year); Curt Mallory (3rd year)
Returning offensive starters: 7
Returning defensive starters: 6
Location: Champaign, Ill.
Stadium: Memorial Stadium (artificial, 69,249)
Last league title: 1998
2008 schedule: [view]
2007 statistics: [view]

Offensive: The priority is finding a running back to replace the departed Rashard Mendenhall. Elsewhere, the Illini are on schedule. Junior quarterback Juice Williams, brilliant in last season’s upset of Ohio State, is still learning his craft, but he’s capable of becoming the All-Big Ten player at his position. Now he seems more confident at making things happen with his arm, instead of relying on his quick feet. Sophomore wide receiver Arrelious Benn is one of the league’s most dangerous open-field runners. The line has two returning starters, but a half-dozen players with decent experience.

Defensive: The Illini defense could be outstanding. There’s a glut of talent along the defensive line, led by senior end Will Davis. At linebacker, senior Brit Miller must assume the leadership role held by departed J Leman. Junior cornerback Vontae Davis is one of the top shutdown cover men in America.

Specialists: Question marks surround the kicking game. Walk-on freshman Derek Dimke is the favorite at place-kicker. Sophomore punter Anthony Santella should keep his job, but must improve his consistency. It’s unknown whether Benn, one of the most valuable offensive players, will continue as the primary return man.

Coaching: Ron Zook has rebuilt his career — and resurrected his reputation — less than four years after his firing at Florida. Zook took some early knocks (4-19 in two seasons), but established a foundation through his tireless recruiting. Illinois could be here to stay, thanks to Zook, who is nothing but resilient. Ron Zook has rebuilt his career — and resurrected his reputation — less than four years after his firing at Florida. Zook took some early knocks (4-19 in two seasons), but established a foundation through his tireless recruiting. Illinois could be here to stay, thanks to Zook, who is nothing but resilient.

Game of the year Nov. 15 vs. Ohio State There is an opening game against Missouri, but when the Buckeyes come to Champaign, it will resonate even more. Last season, Illinois won 28-21 at the Horseshoe, a result that ultimately pushed the Illini into the Rose Bowl. Two in a row against Ohio State? What a moment that could be for Illinois.

Heisman Hopefuls: Illinois doesn’t have a player with voluminous Heisman hype, but Williams could enter the conversation if the Illini hover around the top 10.

Overview: Illinois won’t sneak up on anyone. After opening against Missouri — no small task there — the Illini must go on the road to face Big Ten opponents Penn State, Michigan and Wisconsin. But Illinois is well-armed for such a challenge. This program is not a fluke. Last season might have been the start of something really big.

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