If the projections hold, Illinois could play a perennial College Football Playoff juggernaut in the opening round next year.

Illinois football fans are well aware of coach Bret Bielema's feistiness and competitive nature on the field and in the forums – whether that's defending his club in front of a press conference throng or pushing back on a social-media slight.

Illinois football continues its productive recruiting offseason. The Illini landed the highest-ranked prep recruit of the Bret Bielema era over the weekend when four-star defensive back Victor Singleton announced his commitment.