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Game preview: Illini learning lessons the hard way

CHAMPAIGN — Brad Underwood would like to think part of Illinois’ 25-point loss Friday night at Wisconsin was “a little Lincoln, Neb., hangover” after another would-be Illini win fell by the wayside with the Cornhuskers’ game-winning three-pointer.

What the Badgers’ blowout win did do for certain, however, was provide Underwood with the perfect counterpoint to some of the better moments he showed the Illini during the film session before Saturday’s practice back in Champaign.

The 40 minutes of struggles — alternating offensive and defensive ends — were a picture perfect example of what not to do.

“I think it’s a great example, a great lesson, that we’ve got a small margin when you don’t play with maximum effort and energy,” Underwood said.