Illinois football will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of its 1983 Big Ten championship team during the season opener on Saturday, September 2nd against Toledo. The team, which also played in the 1984 Rose Bowl, will be honored during the game. Members of the team will be signing autographs in Grange Grove before the 6:30 p.m. kickoff.
In 1983, Illinois posted a 10-2 record with a perfect 9-0 conference record, making them the only team in Big Ten history to beat every other conference school in the same season. Coached by Mike White, the team finished the season ranked No. 10 in the AP Top 25, with key victories against No. 6 Ohio State and No. 8 Michigan.
Quarterback Jack Trudeau led the team’s offense with 2,446 passing yards and 18 touchdowns during the regular season, supported by wide receiver David Williams who had 59 catches for 870 yards and six touchdowns. The defense was anchored by Big Ten MVP and All-American defensive lineman Don Thorp, who finished the season with 77 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. Mark Butkus also contributed with 59 tackles, six tackles for loss, and five sacks.
The celebration of this historic team is sure to be a highlight of the season opener and a special moment for Illinois football fans. You can follow reporter Scott Richey for more updates on college basketball at The News-Gazette, via email at srichey@news-gazette.com or on Twitter (@srrichey).
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