The upcoming season continues to set up in Illinois’ favor.
Hardship waivers and sixth years for Tracy Abrams and Mike Thorne Jr. meant the Illini return almost 100 percent intact. Now, they get a Big Ten schedule that avoids trips to East Lansing, Columbus and Madison.
Beat writer SCOTT RICHEY breaks down the 2016-17 league slate, which was unveiled on Monday, but did not feature dates and times.
Home sweet home
In some order, Michigan State and Wisconsin will likely open the 2016-17 season as the top two teams in the Big Ten.