Apparently, nobody told Illinois football that its season was supposed to be over after a 2-3 start. Winners of four consecutive games, the Illini (6-3, 4-2 Big Ten) have completely revived their season and will now head west for their biggest challenge yet: an undefeated, No. 4-ranked UCLA squad (9-0, 6-0 Big Ten).

B1G matchup in Pasadena. pic.twitter.com/xq0LKTcDpU

— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) November 9, 2026

Unfortunately, Illinois football and the Pacific time zone haven't exactly gotten along recently.

After getting demolished by Oregon in 2024 and suffering another sound defeat at Washington in a winnable matchup last season, the Illini will make their third West Coast trip in as many years.…