Illinois football takes care of business in Week 1 with a dominant 52–3 win over Western Illinois. Sunny Verma is joined by Cody Delmendo to break down the victory — from Hank Beatty’s record-breaking punt return and explosive performance, to the run game trio of Aidan Loughrey, Kaeden Feagan, and Ca'lil Valentine, to the dominant night from Gabe Jacas.

We also discuss: Concerns about the right side of the offensive line Who steps up in the wide receiver room What this game means heading into next week’s matchup with Duke 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for daily Illini coverage: football, basketball, recruiting, and more! 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?... 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/f8PfVrgf

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... 

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Upside 

Simply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today! Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_... 

Rugiet 

150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE Use code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order! 

SupplyHouse 

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for... to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Big Ten football heats up as Texas faces Ohio State in a clash of titans. Will the Longhorns stun the Buckeyes on their home turf?

Spencer McLaughlin and the Locked On Big Ten Squad break down this marquee matchup, analyzing Ohio State's new offensive coordinator and quarterback situation. The crew also previews Utah vs UCLA, debating the Bruins' chances against Kyle Whittingham's experienced Utes. Nebraska's potential as a dark horse playoff contender takes center stage, with hosts discussing Matt Rhule's impact and the Cornhuskers' favorable schedule. Plus, upset alerts for Week 1, including Maryland's tricky opener against Florida Atlantic.

Don't miss expert insights on these crucial Big Ten battles and potential season-defining moments. Will Ohio State defend their home field? Can Nebraska make a significant leap this year?

Illinois football is BACK! The Illini open their 2025 season against Western Illinois, and this matchup is all about setting the tone for the year. In today’s preview, Sunny is joined by JR from  ⁨@TheBigTenHuddleBasketball⁩  to break down the keys to the game, players to watch, and what Illini fans should expect.

We cover: The WR rotation and who could emerge as a go-to playmaker Updates on the offensive line and depth chart battles Defensive players set to shine Why this game is about confidence heading into Week 2 at Duke A quick look around the Big Ten’s opening weekend, including Texas–Ohio State, Nebraska–Cincinnati, and UCLA–Utah Hit subscribe for daily Illini coverage and join us after every game for reactions, analysis, and fan takes! 

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 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/f8PfVrgf 

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Upside 

Simply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today! Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_xp=custom&pid=barrington&c=barrington_lockedon25&deep_link_value=promo&deep_link_sub1=lockedon25&af_dp=upsideapp%3A%2F%2F 

Rugiet 

150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE Use code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order! 

SupplyHouse 

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for-trademaster to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

All aboard the Keaton Wagler hype train! 🚂 Illinois freshman guard Keaton Wagler is earning rave reviews from coaches, teammates, and media — and with Ty Rogers sidelined, his role could be critical this season.

In this episode of Locked On Illini, I break down: 

Why Brad Underwood is so high on Wagler already 

What teammates like Kylan Boswell are saying about him 

How his skillset (shooting, size, decision-making) fits perfectly into the Illini backcourt 

Why Illinois’ ceiling may rise if Wagler proves ready for Big Ten play 

This isn’t just preseason chatter — multiple insiders say Wagler could play meaningful minutes right away. If that’s true, Illinois just found a game-changing freshman. 👇 Drop your thoughts: Is Keaton Wagler the real deal? Can he be Illinois’ breakout freshman? 

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 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/f8PfVrgf 

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Upside 

Simply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today! Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_xp=custom&pid=barrington&c=barrington_lockedon25&deep_link_value=promo&deep_link_sub1=lockedon25&af_dp=upsideapp%3A%2F%2F 

Rugiet 

150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE Use code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order! 

SupplyHouse 

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for-trademaster to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

 FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

It’s prediction time! With kickoff against Western Illinois just days away, I finally lock in my full Illinois football season prediction. Can Bret Bielema’s squad reach double-digit wins? I break down the schedule game-by-game, share my ceiling/floor outlook, and reveal my final record projection. Plus, Big Kurt from the Eyes on B1G Podcast joins the show to share his thoughts on where the Illini stand.

🏈 Illinois football fans — where do YOU have the Illini finishing this season? Drop your record predictions in the comments! 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for daily Illini coverage as we enter football season. 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 NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/3fNX7V89 Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Upside 

Simply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today! Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_xp=custom&pid=barrington&c=barrington_lockedon25&deep_link_value=promo&deep_link_sub1=lockedon25&af_dp=upsideapp%3A%2F%2F 

Rugiet 

150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE Use code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order! 

SupplyHouse 

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for-trademaster to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Super early Illinois basketball preview! I joined Locked On College Basketball to break down the Illini’s biggest storylines, Brad Underwood’s international recruiting, newcomers like Mihailo Petrovic, David Mirkovic, and Andrej Stojakovic, plus rotation projections, breakout picks, and Illinois’ brutal non-conference schedule. Where does Illinois stack up in the Big Ten and what’s the ceiling for this team? Let’s dive in.

Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois coverage: insights, analysis, recruiting updates, and more. 

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 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/3fNX7V89 Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Upside

 Simply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today! Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_xp=custom&pid=barrington&c=barrington_lockedon25&deep_link_value=promo&deep_link_sub1=lockedon25&af_dp=upsideapp%3A%2F%2F 

Rugiet 

150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE Use code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order! SupplyHouse Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for-trademaster to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The SEC just shook up college football — announcing a nine-game conference schedule plus a required Power 4 non-conference matchup starting in 2026. On the surface, it looks like SEC news. But make no mistake: this directly affects Illinois and the rest of the Big Ten.

In today’s episode, we break down: Why Illinois can’t afford to lag behind in scheduling tough opponents What this means for Bret Bielema’s program and future playoff hopes The possibility of Illinois facing more marquee matchups (think Duke, Missouri, or even SEC crossover games) How recruiting could change if the Big Ten follows suit It’s a new era of strength-of-schedule wars — and Illinois is right in the middle of it. 

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 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/3fNX7V89 

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Wayfair 

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Big Ten football predictions ignite fierce debate. Will Ohio State reclaim conference glory or can Penn State follow the championship blueprint?

Expert panelists clash over potential coaching changes, with Mike Locksley and Luke Fickell under scrutiny. The discussion heats up as Jay Stevens argues for Ohio State's talent advantage, while Zach Seiko champions Penn State's experienced roster. Craig Sheeman offers bold insights on Maryland's financial constraints and the Big Ten's playoff dominance.

From quarterback battles to defensive strategies, the panel breaks down keys for each team's success. Can Nico Iamaleava become UCLA's superstar? Will Ohio State's new QB1 rise to the challenge? Tune in for insider analysis on the Big Ten's path to national supremacy.

What a week for Illinois athletics! ESPN just ranked Gabe Jacas as the No. 22 player in all of college football, solidifying him as the face of Bret Bielema’s defense. We break down what makes him special, his NFL upside, and why his loyalty to Illinois sets him apart.

Meanwhile on the basketball side, Illinois is officially in the final 8 for top 50 guard Jesiah Jervis out of New York. We scout his game, explain why he’s a true two-way star, and where the Illini stand in his recruitment battle. And don’t forget soccer — Illinois opened the season with two straight road shutouts, with standout performances from Kayla Jackson, Sydney Stevens, and Izzy Lee. We cover why this team deserves more attention. 

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 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/3fNX7V89 

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social 

Article Referenced: https://writingillini.com/the-katie-hultin-era-at-illinois-begins-with-two-dominate-defensive-wins

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. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Wayfair 

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

lllinois basketball is in the final six for 4⭐ guard Quentin Coleman, a rising prospect out of St. Louis who has blown up on the AAU circuit with Brad Beal Elite. We dive into Coleman’s scouting profile, his sharp shooting ability, defensive toughness, and why Brad Underwood sees him as a great fit in Champaign.

Coleman’s finalists: Illinois, Iowa, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Wake Forest, and St. Louis. Is this a smart, savvy move for the Illini — or another “under the radar” gamble? Let’s break it all down. 

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