Fitz and players met with the media for their weekly press conference. Here’s what they had to say heading into a crucial rivalry game needing a win for bowl eligibility.

Pat Fitzgerald

• Offensive player of the week was Justin Jackson, Flynn Nagel was the big playmaker.
• Brett Walsh was the defensive player of the week, Anthony Walker was the big playmaker.
• “You get excited about playing your rival. We’ve got great respect for the University of Illinois. Coach Smith has done a great job. We’ve got a ton to play for.