The Illinois Fighting Illini are gearing up for the 2024 college football season with a mix of optimism and pessimism surrounding their prospects. Predictions from various college football news sources place the Illini between five and six wins, with an over/under line of 5.5 victories.
Athlon highlighted defensive concerns but expressed optimism about the offense, particularly praising quarterback Luke Altmyer and running back Kaden Feagin. CBS Sports also projected a 5-7 record for Illinois, pointing out a talented offensive line that could help them score points.
The New York Times and ESPN similarly pegged the Illini for around a 5-7 season, with the former emphasizing their middling position in the Big Ten Conference. The News-Gazette assessed the pressure on head coach Bret Bielema to deliver results based on the team’s performance.
Despite a downturn in 2023 following a successful 2022 campaign, projections suggest Illinois could bounce back with a stronger defense this season. CFN predicted six wins for the Illini, emphasizing the need for a more disruptive and consistent defensive unit.
Illinois’ schedule for the 2024 season includes key matchups against Eastern Illinois, Kansas, Central Michigan, Purdue, and Michigan State. With an emphasis on defense and a focus on improvement from the previous season, the Fighting Illini look to edge closer to bowl eligibility and reclaim their winning ways.
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