College Football Preview 2025: Illinois Fighting Illini

• Head Coach: Bret Bielema (fifth season)
• 2024 Record: 10-3 (won Citrus Bowl)
• Strength of Schedule: 31st
• PFF Projected Win Total: 7.0
• FanDuel Win Total: 8.5

2024 Recap

Illinois was one of the biggest surprises in college football last season, finishing 10-3 and No. 16 in the final AP poll. That doubled the team’s win total from the previous year and marked its highest final ranking in 23 years, matching the program record for most wins in a season.

The Fighting Illini could produce similar results in 2025, as they return nearly all of their production from last year’s squad. While there are some questions about the supporting cast around quarterback Luke Altmyer, West Virginia transfer wide receiver Hudson Clement should provide a much-needed boost.

Biggest Strength: Continuity from an already great team

Illinois is coming off one of the best seasons in school history and returns the majority of its roster in 2025. Of the 27 players who logged at least 300 snaps for the Fighting Illini last year, only nine have departed the program.

Biggest Weakness: Supporting cast for Luke Altmyer