Saturday could very well mark the end of an era for Illinois football.
An Illini loss likely ends a disappointing 2023 campaign. With a bowl game unlikely at 5-7, the Illini will immediately turn to constructing the 2024 roster.
An Illini victory means valuable bowl week practices for underclassmen looking to make their mark next season. It also gives a group of amazing departing seniors another bowl game. While some will sit out, the opportunity for one last major opportunity to put highlights on film could benefit the borderline NFL prospects on the roster.
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The stakes are high and clear.