Week 8 saw Illinois put up a brilliant performance against a tough team.

Facing No. 6 Wisconsin and superstar running back Jonathan Taylor, the Illini were not given much of a chance to win the game. Fortunately, a strong defensive showing and some clutch offensive plays swung the outcome. A last-second kick by James McCourt was the final nail in the coffin as the Illini pulled off the stunner, 24-23.

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On Monday, Illinois OC Rod Smith discussed the vibe for the week following the big win. He admitted the vibe is up with everyone in good spirits. However, the challenge is to take the good vibes and put it into preparing for next week.

Isaac Trotter with Illini Inquirer shared Smith’s comments from his Monday press conference:

“The air smells a lot better, the food tastes a lot better. It’s just natural. That’s the reward that comes with winning. The vibe is up. The kids’ confidences are up. They’re bouncing around. Excited to get going for this weekend. Once again, this weekend is going to be a tremendous challenge. This (Purdue) team is a lot better than most people think. I know their record is a little down on them that it’s been in the past, but if you watch film on them, they do a really good job. It’ll be a tremendous test for them.”

Smith also said the upset meant a great deal to the players. However, he admitted it was a lot of fun securing the win:

“It meant more for the kids than it did for me. But I ain’t going to lie to you, it was fun. Anytime you’re a competitor, you’re going to want to win at anything you do. You want to compete against the best.”

The Illini move on to face Purdue in Week 9. Saturday’s kickoff is set for 12 pm EST on BTN.