Monday, Sept. 28, 1998
Head Coach Gary Barnett on the Wisconsin game
"It became a game of big plays -- two off the punt, a big run and a big pass. One thing I want to do is take some of the blame away from Preston Letts on that punt. Preston was held on that play, outside of the rules, and I called (Big Ten Conference supervisor of officials) Dave Parry and asked him to review the film. He said it absolutely was a violation (by Wisconsin). They (the game officials) missed it. I asked him to report it to the Big Ten. He said he would. There was no way Preston could have performed his job in the way that play was executed. It wasn't our fault and it wasn't Preston's fault. He was a victim of an illegal play that was missed by the officials and resulted in a big play."
"I think overall our special teams were not even average and it's an area we've been very strong in. We had our chances, but we just didnt perform. I believe special teams are an indicator of the character of your team. And I always play up the special teams because I think the character of our team is such. We just didn't play real smart. Offensively, we were hit-and-miss. The quarterback struggled and so that's all a bad combination when you're playing a good team on the road."
Barnett on Illinois
"These are two teams, if you look statistically, that are almost identical. Illinois has made a lot of progress from last year. They're a different team from a year ago. We're probably more alike than you think in the sense that defensively, they're a pretty solid unit. Then on offense, because of the changes in quarterbacks, receivers and all those sorts of things, they're trying to get it all together, as we are. We're identical in what this game means and how both teams have performed throughout the year. Throw in the rivalry and this is going to be a heck of a football game."
Barnett on the Wildcats
"We're okay. We're young, but getting better. I'm more encouraged than discouraged."
Barnett on freshman wide receiver Sam Simmons
"I don't know how he made that catch against Wisconsin. It was unbelievable. We're looking to continue to expand his role on this team. He's an exciting player."
Player quotes
Wide receiver John Burden
"A lot of times we are just one play away from being a real good football team. There are so many good things that have happened in each game. I know guys can't wait to get out there and practice tomorrow (Tuesday). There's so much to learn from. Sam (Simmons) is a great kid and a terrific athlete. He's got big play potential. We need to have him out there."
Defensive end Dwayne Missouri on the differences between Wisconsin and Illinois
"Illinois will be quick and they're going to make moves on you. We're just going to have to concentrate on wrapping them up. It's a matter of being more sound in our techniques. It's different, not tougher."
Missouri on the Wildcat offensive line
"They're not struggling, they're coming together. As far as athleticism and heart go, they've got it."