After starting 3-0 for the first time in 13 years, the Illini are No. 24 in the latest AP poll. It’s their first appearance since 2022.

After beating Eastern Illinois and then No. 19 Kansas 23-17, the Illini received 101 votes, placing them in the 26th spot. After defeating Central Michigan by three touchdowns, the Illini fought their way into the rankings. 

The Illini are off to their best start in years and have been awarded with sold-out crowds and rankings, coming off their rough season last year. Not only has the team been standing out, but certain players have entered the national spotlight.

Last week, junior defensive back Xavier Scott was awarded the Defensive Player of the Week by Walter Camp Football and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week. Senior wide receiver Pat Bryant has also had a stellar start, ranking fourth in the nation with four receiving touchdowns.

Both kickers for the Illini also played a crucial role in helping the team win their past two games. Against Kansas, sophomore kicker David Olano scored all three of his field goals and grabbed nine of the 30 points for the Illini. Against the Chippewas, Olano made a 49-yard field goal to assist the Illini, but it was sophomore Ethan Moczulski, the Texas A&M transfer, whose 59-yard field goal furthered their lead and earned him the new school record. 

Illinois takes on No. 22 Nebraska for its conference opener on Friday, a highly competitive matchup as both teams are off to 3-0 starts. 

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