There was an ugly period of time last season and earlier this season where some fans wanted to clean house. That notion has changed as Illinois has rambled off two-straight wins and now has a bowl berth in the crosshairs. But what has been the big change for the Illini? There is an easy answer to this question; the turnover battle.
One of Lovie Smith’s signatures is his turnover friendly defense. He has always taught turnovers since becoming a coach. I remember how well the Chicago Bears could force fumbles when Lovie was leading that team.