<p>All in all a pretty successful season for the gridiron 'Cats (aside from the loss to UI, albeit partially due to injuries) - finishing the regular season ranked 20th in the Coach’s poll and 24th in all the others (including the BCS; the 'Cats can still move up if teams ahead of lose).</p>
<p>The fact that the 'Cats did this w/o their best player for more than half the season, Sutton, and w/ their starting QB missing a couple of games and key losses on the D (Arrington, Browne, etc.) is truly remarkable.</p>
<p>Unlike the past 7-8 years where good seasons have predicated the 'Cats winning in shootouts, this season (thanks to Coach Hankawitz), the D led the way (and should be even better next year - unless Wootten goes pro early).</p>
<p>Of all the possible foes, Okla St. would be the most formidable.</p>
<p>SCarolina, Vandy, Mizzou, Neb., etc., otoh, all have weaknesses.</p>
<p>Here’s video of students rushing the field after the Illinois win.</p>
<p>[YouTube</a> - NU students rush the field, Nov 22, 2008](<a href=“http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rzcg9wjkTrA]YouTube”>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rzcg9wjkTrA)</p>
<p>And let’s not forget the hardcourt 'Cats are 3-0 w/ 3 easy wins.</p>
<p>We’ll see how good the frosh are when the team faces their 1st test against Butler.</p>