A Familiar Feeling: High expectations, disappointing results

Illinois Football reminds me of the love of my life.

For 13 years I chased after her, always willing to do whatever she asked. Whether helping her around her house or giving her a ride somewhere, I would jump at the chance. Every once in a while, we would get something to eat together or go to a movie—only to be reminded time and time again that we were just friends. That is the story of Illinois Football in my lifetime.

Every fall I get hope, just like I used to do every spring when baseball came around—thinking that this was the year for the Cubs (until 2016 made it a reality).