CHAMPAIGN — Emphasizing playmaking isn't new for Illinois offensive coordinator Rod Smith. That's something he's discussed with his group the entire season.
Illinois' offensive performance against Minnesota, though, was cause for Smith to share an Illini motto on Twitter with various hashtags like #MTP and #MakeThePlay. Putting up 55 points and 646 total yards of offense — both season highs by wide margins — was cause to do a little celebrating and hoping for more in Saturday's 11 a.m. kickoff at Nebraska.
"We talk to them all the time," Smith said. "You're going to be in position to make a play.