He is a breath of fresh air, a soothing breeze in a whirlwind of doubt. He is banker Martin O'Donnell, former All-American guard on a 2007 Rose Bowl team and now an analyst alongside Brian Barnhart on Illini football broadcasts.
Tell us, Martin, how do you remain positive in the wake of diminishing crowds and a 10-game losing streak?
With full conviction, his response is: "The source of my optimism comes from my trust in Josh Whitman and Lovie Smith. As a former player, Josh understands Illinois, the fans and the program. He is the right person to lead the program.