Chambana Sun

The University of Illinois football program experienced contrasting fortunes during the 1970s and 1980s. In the early '70s, the team struggled under Coach Jim Valek, who won only five out of 28 conference games. The university appointed Bob Blackman as head coach in 1971, a decision that surprised many given his Ivy League background.

Blackman faced a tough start with six consecutive losses in his first season. However, he turned things around by winning five straight games later that year, which helped with recruiting future stars like Scott Studwell and John Sullivan. Despite these improvements, Blackman's teams could not overcome Ohio State and Michigan, resulting in his dismissal after the 1976 season.

Gary Moeller replaced Blackman but failed to deliver success, leading to both his and athletic director Cecil Coleman's departures. Neale Stoner and Mike White took over in the late '70s with high hopes for the 1980s.

While their first season fell short of expectations, signs of improvement emerged. Dave Wilson's record-setting performance against Ohio State was one highlight. By 1981, Illinois had its best record in nearly two decades at 7-4.

In 1983, White's team achieved an unprecedented feat by defeating all nine Big Ten opponents. Key players included quarterback Jack Trudeau and running back Thomas Rooks. However, they ended the season with a loss at the Rose Bowl against UCLA.

Under White's leadership, Memorial Stadium saw significant growth in attendance, culminating in multiple sellout seasons between 1982 and 1987. Though White's final years were less successful, John Mackovic took over as head coach and led Illinois to bowl appearances in both 1988 and 1989.