The Illini got the win over Colgate, but it was far from perfect — and today Sunny breaks down every rotation player’s grade, what it means, and why Friday night may be the most important learning rep of the early season. Two freshmen — David Mirkovic & Keaton Wagler — earned the top marks, combining elite production with maturity, poise, toughness, and winning traits. Meanwhile, the veterans showed mixed results, and a few key players saw role clarity shift. This episode explains the exact grade given to each player, the reasoning behind it, and how it impacts Illinois heading into Alabama.

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Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: [email protected] FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267 TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/KJA2VrVC Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social Article Referenced: For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. 

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