Starting 3-5 is something the Illini fans haven’t seen since the mid-70’s. This is a new territory that many people don’t want any part of.
Illinois has to win this game or it is probably then end of the season. If they fall to Western Carolina then they have 6 losses in the non-conference and that spells no postseason.
The Illini are a lot healthier now though. They have played well in their last two games which were both losses. Those two teams, Iowa State and Notre Dame, were both arguably better teams than Illinois.
Losing those two games I can give a pass on.