sportsjabber.net

Sandwiched in between last weekend’s emotional prime time upset of nationally ranked Arizona State nad next week’s Big Ten opener versus hated in-state rival Northwestern, today’s contest against MAC opponent Western Michigan certainly had a “trap game” feel.

And given the Illini performance in the first half, it certainly looked that way for awhile (think Minnesota game last season and in ’08). But Illinois held on to beat the Broncos 23-20, despite finding themselves both trailing at halftime, and with a genuine opportunity to lose on the final defensive possession in the closing minute.

It’s certainly a sign of progress for the program that the team locker room was a depressed atmosphere after a win.

“I think that’s one of the greatest things that could have happened,” Illini Coach Ron Zook told the media postgame.

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