Smith says he expects the team he’s inherited to compete for a Big Ten Championship. The former Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaners coach said he planned to complete his career at Illinois, after signing a six-year, $21 million contract.  "I don't know what better commitment I can show to everyone that we're going to be here for the long haul," he said.

8-5 Illinois will play the 10-3 Michigan Wolverines, at 2 PM CST, at the University of Illinois State Farm Arena in Champaign.

The policy would involve all new hires at the U of I's three campuses, not just those with 'security sensitive' positions.  If approved by university trustees next month, it would take effect October 5. 

Illinois Freshman, Leron Black, finished with 15 points and a season-high 13 rebounds. Black: "My momma didn't raise no quitter."