Goode has a follow up doctor's appointment today.

I'd expect him to be released to return to team activities.

Per Underwood, Goode is pain free.

Fighting #Illini Today from Monday, January 9, 2023.

* WBB cracks AP top 25
* Key linemen return for Illini football
* Big Ten men's hoops power rankings

I'm impressed with how Underwood has recognized and accepted the psychological makeup of this team, and the need to be more of a mentor and keep his emotions under control.

Today against Wisconsin, it was obvious that he asked assistant Geoff Alexander and staffer Joey Biggs to help him stay calm. Each time he started to boil over, they were off the bench and helping him keep the lid on.

Many times, Underwood took a short walk behind the bench and took a few deep breaths. In the huddle he was positive and encouraging, giving particular attention to Jayden Epps even after his turnovers.

Chester Frazier actually took on the roll of enforcer in this one. LOL. He was all over Sencire Harris for missing the two early layups.

It's not easy in any leadership position to accept the need for change, especially when what you had been doing carried you to near the pinnacle of your profession. But if you look in the mirror and don't like what you see, do something about it.

Kudo to Underwood and much admiration. The changes made a huge difference against Wisconsin. There were a few moments when a mistake or two could have snowballed, but they were able to move past them mentally and close the game out. Rather than harping on every mistake, the focus was on the next play.

Big stretch of games coming up. By the end of January, we will know if this team can contend in the Big Ten and get back in the discussion nationally.

Kerby drafted by the Lions in the 3rd.

Northwestern 84 Indiana 83

Iowa 76 Rutgers 65

Maryland 80 Ohio State 73

Purdue 76 Penn State 63

Login to view embedded media
Thank you Malik! Thank you BB!

in the second quarter in Columbus. I’m really liking this Shauna Green.

You guys are going to love this kid. Huge performance by Olano at the All-American Bowl. He broke the longest FG record with a 50 yarder today,
Login to view embedded media

@bucshon, can you elaborate on your comment in the game thread? Epps is the one freshman that looks to have a complete game.

Brad Underwood is at Bloomington Central Catholic Friday night to watch Cole Certa.

Login to view embedded media
Per Scott Burgess from Prep Hoops, Yorkville 2024 center Jason Jakstys will visit Illinois Saturday for the Wisconsin game.

With all the talk in the portal threads about the need for a transfer running back, I'm just wondering how much BB is planning on having Feagin near the top of the depth chart. I don't know much about the young man other than he is rated as a 4*, is 6'-2", 235 lbs, and placed 2nd in the long jump at the state championships last year. He is listed as an athlete so the quickness and speed must be pretty good, if not elite. McCray is 6'-1", 235.

To compare size, Ron Dayne was 5'-10", 245; Derek Henry is 6'-3", 240; Najee Harris is 6'-1", 225. So big running backs have been/can be effective without elite speed. Not counting on Anderson we'll have Love, McCray, Laughery, and Feagin. Never hurts to have another experienced back with a burst but I'm questioning how big the need is. Just my simple thoughts. Any additional thoughts are appreciated.

Login to view embedded media
Login to view embedded media
Login to view embedded media

Matthew Mayer dressed and went through the shootaround.

Tyler Wahl made the trip for Wisconsin, but will not play. Lower body injury.

This upcoming Jan 7th game is shaping up to be the most important game of the season. We are 0-3 and things are starting to turn (bleak) in our season. It doesn’t seem like the players have given up but we have to start seeing some success out on the court. Does anyone else think its this dire yet? We play at Nebraska after this game and I‘m not expecting us to win that game right now.

Tyler Wahl for wisky might not play in our game. He injured his right ankle.