The University of Illinois Fighting Illini enter the final week of the regular season with bowl eligibility and the promise of a winning record. The winding down of the regular season symbolizes the closing of one door and the focus on another.
The early signing period starts Dec. 21.
And the Illini have to not only hold their solid class of 2023, but they have to finish strong in closing uncommitted targets and even more potential flips.
To be clear, recruiting has been on the upswing since Bielema and his staff have hit the trail. Their sell to in-state players has been resonating.