The latest one, however, might be the funniest one yet. Monday, On3 released its way-too-early College Football Playoff pairings, wisely including the Illini alongside fellow Big Ten mainstays Oregon, Penn State, and defending national champion Ohio State.

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

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.

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 coach Bret Bielema is feeling great. The Illini are coming off their first 10-win season since 2001. A junior day over the weekend had more than a dozen of the top local prospects on campus.