Chambana Sun

The Illinois wrestling team, ranked 11th nationally, is preparing for an important weekend. They will begin their Big Ten dual season against Indiana, ranked 28th, on Friday, December 6 in Indianapolis. Following this match, the team will travel to Edwardsville, Illinois to compete in the Cougar Clash tournament on Saturday, December 7. Fans can watch the action live on BTN and FloWrestling.

The Fighting Illini recently secured their fifth dual win of the season with a victory over North Carolina. This win marks Illinois' best start since the 2015-16 season when they achieved eight consecutive victories.

Lucas Byrd, a redshirt senior competing at 133 pounds and ranked second nationally in his weight class, contributed significantly to the win against North Carolina with a major decision victory over Ethan Oakley. Braeden Scoles and Danny Braunagel also delivered strong performances with technical fall wins. Zac Braunagel sealed the team's victory with his major decision triumph.

Indiana enters the upcoming dual with a 4-0 record this season. Their previous encounter with Illinois resulted in a loss for Indiana back in February 2021.

A group of eleven wrestlers from Illinois will participate in the Cougar Clash: Brian Beers, Ryan Bennett, Kole Brower, Jayden Colon, Dylan Connell, Caden Ernd, Charlie Fifield, Jake Harrier, Jackson Herman, Marko Ivanisevic and Joey Ruzic.

The Fighting Illini have scored over 20 points in each of their five wins this season. Notably leading performers include Lucas Byrd and Braeden Scoles who maintain perfect records so far this year.