Thin on running backs

With Jason Ford out because of academic problems, the Illini will rely on freshman Donovonn Young and senior Troy Pollard. Young is the team's ball-carrier of the future and has 422 yards and six touchdowns.

Record in sight

Defensive end Whitney Mercilus enters the game leading the country with 14½ sacks. He needs two to break Simeon Rice's school record of 16. This is likely to be the junior's last game at Illinois.

Something special

During bowl preparation, interim coach Vic Koenning put additional emphasis on the Illini's woeful special teams, trying to improve in one month what former coach Ron Zook couldn't do in seven years.

Seeking big plays

A.J. Jenkins led the country in receiving yards much of the year on numerous big plays. The Illini hope to revive that threat after he was held to less than 50 yards in three of the last four games.

Wasted defense

Illinois enters the game at 6-6 despite having the No. 7-rated defense in the country. The offense hasn't been good enough for the Illini to take advantage of a defense that allows an average of 291 yards.

Stu Durando