Taking a look at the Illini's schedule, which is ranked as the 35th-toughest in the nation. Will that do them any favors as they try to make it to a bowl game during Lovie Smith's inaugural season?
I have been predicting Illinois football records since I started writing for TCR in 2014. So far I've had a hit and a miss. Two years ago I called for a 6-6 record with a tough bowl game loss (hello, Louisiana Tech), but last season I predicted a 7-5 record and a postseason victory. Whoops. Let's see if I can make it two-for-three with this year's edition.