Illinois is one of the stories programs in the Big 10 conference and has been playing football since the program was founded in 1890. Some of the great players to play for Illinois include Red Grange, Dick Butkus, George Halas, and Simeon Rice.The Fighting Illini play a schedule that often includes Indiana, Michigan, MIchigan State, Nebraska, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue and Wisconsin. Illini fans know winning the Big Ten is difficult, but are hoping every year to see Illinois earn a berth in the Big Ten Championship Game. A dream season in Champaign would see the Fighting Illini knock off Michigan and Ohio State on their way to a spot in the conference championship, which then propels them to a top bowl game.
Illinois vs. Ohio State
These longtime Big 10 foes have met on the field over 95 times. The Illibuck Trophy, a carved wooden turtle trophy awarded to the winner, is the 2nd oldest trophy in the Big 10 and personifies the longevity of this series. Despite the Buckeyes dominance, this still remains one of the biggest games in the Midwest, providing many unbelievable moments and is always primed for an upset.
- vs Indiana
- vs Michigan
- vs Ohio State
- vs Penn State
- vs Wisconsin
