Here are the non-conference predictions for the 2016-17 campaign.
Southeast Missouri State (W 89-55)
The first game of the season is at home against Southeast Missouri State. This should be an easy win, all things considered.
The Illini will have a healthy team that is only missing Leron Black due to a four-game suspension to start the season.
Southeast Missouri State is coming off a 5-24 record last season and this season won’t be much better. They weren’t competitive against many teams that year either.
I expect Illinois to come into this game and take a big lead from the beginning.