It’s rivalry week, and the Wildcats prepare for a familiar opponent as the Fighting Illini make yet another trip up north in the battle for HAT.
After a strong 2019 campaign that saw Illinois earn its first bowl appearance since 2014, Lovie Smith’s squad has taken a few steps backward in 2020 after the coronavirus hit the program early. Despite wins over Rutgers and Nebraska, Illinois has suffered losses to its four other opponents and faces an uphill battle in its season finale.
To break down the Illini’s struggles this season, hopes for the future and perspective on the rivalry, we chatted with Gabby Hajduk, sports editor of The Daily Illini.