Dare anyone say it? Then I will.
Perhaps the reason Illinois is having such an embarrassing football season is because one crucial element is missing.
Illinois can fire and hire coaches all they want, but there remains one aspect of the program that is irreplaceable, that pumps energy and pride into every competition and that brings crowds to their feet.
What would an infusion of such a revered — and sadly missed by many — figure of “The Chief” do for the players and fans? I can only imagine how thunderous the applause would be as Chief Illiniwek appeared once more on the field, as he did for decades, dancing and inspiring his team onward to victory.
One is left to wonder if it really is just an “off” year for the Illini. Is it the coaching? The players? Or is it being “politically correct” and wimping out, in recent times, to blame?
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He is gone, but he is not forgotten.
Looking at this lackluster season, maybe it’s time to bring back the Chief.
