Locked On Illini - Daily Podcast On Illinois Fighting Illini Football & Basketball

🚨 Illinois basketball has made the final three for one of the top prospects in the 2027 recruiting class. Darius Wabbington has narrowed his recruitment to Illinois, Arizona and Indiana, and Brad Underwood has put the Fighting Illini in position to potentially pull off a major recruiting victory. What's particularly impressive? Illinois wasn't even among Wabbington's original finalists. The Illini entered the recruitment relatively late, secured an official visit to Champaign and have now survived every cut. With a decision potentially coming soon, Illinois suddenly finds itself competing directly with Arizona and Indiana for one of its biggest targets. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down why this recruitment is about more than one player. Illinois has increasingly landed visits from some of the country's best high school prospects. The next step is turning those visits — and final-three appearances — into commitments. 🏀 Why Illinois has legitimate momentum with Darius Wabbington 🏀 How the Illini went from outside the recruitment to the final three 🏀 The challenge presented by Arizona 🏀 Where Indiana stands 🏀 Brad Underwood's pitch for Wabbington 🏀 How Illinois' recent success could affect 2027 recruiting 🏀 Why Wabbington fits Underwood's roster-building philosophy 🏀 Whether Illinois is entering a different recruiting stratosphere PLUS: Illinois football has its new defensive play caller. Following Bobby Hauck's departure, inside linebackers coach Roger Cooper called the defense during Illinois' 24-17 loss to Purdue. We discuss Cooper's background, what changed defensively against Purdue and why it's far too early to judge his performance. Locked On Illini is your daily source for Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. 🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/6ErKdNajX Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

3h ago·28 min

Illinois football just suffered what may be the worst loss of the Bret Bielema era. The Fighting Illini fell flat in a game they desperately needed against Purdue, turning a sold-out Homecoming atmosphere at Memorial Stadium into one of the most frustrating performances of the season. Sunny Verma reacts immediately after the loss and explains why this one feels different. Katin Houser struggled through arguably his worst performance in an Illinois uniform, the offensive line failed to take advantage of getting healthier, and an Illini offense that was supposed to carry this team couldn't consistently move the football against a Purdue defense Illinois should have been able to attack. And surprisingly, the defense wasn't the biggest problem. Illinois gave itself opportunities to win. The offense simply couldn't capitalize. We discuss: 🏈 Why this might be the worst loss of the Bret Bielema era 🏈 Katin Houser's disastrous afternoon 🏈 Illinois' offensive-line problems 🏈 Barry Lunney Jr.'s questionable decisions 🏈 Why Javari Barnett didn't get more opportunities 🏈 Colin Dixon's big performance 🏈 Illinois' defensive effort 🏈 Bret Bielema's offseason decisions coming back to haunt Illinois 🏈 Whether a bowl game is still realistic 🏈 What happens if Illinois loses to Michigan State 🏈 Whether it may soon be time to start evaluating younger players for 2027 This isn't about putting Bret Bielema on the hot seat. His recent success at Illinois has earned him significantly more patience than that. But this season is raising legitimate questions about how the roster and coaching staff were constructed — and after this loss, those questions aren't going away. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/6ErKdNajX Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1d ago·31 min

Illinois football returns home for a MUST-WIN matchup against Purdue in the Battle for the Cannon. Can Bret Bielema and the Fighting Illini get their season back on track? Locked On Illini joins Locked On Boilermakers for a special crossover preview of Illinois vs. Purdue. Both programs enter Saturday searching for answers — particularly on defense. Illinois is making changes after parting ways with defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck, while Purdue continues to struggle defensively under Kevin Kane. We break down what needs to change for the Illini defense, why simplifying things could help Illinois' talented secondary, and whether Katin Houser and the Illini offense can take advantage of a Purdue defense that has struggled to generate pressure and defend the middle of the field. Plus: 🏈 Why Illinois-Purdue feels like a must-win for BOTH programs 🔥 Katin Houser's impressive start at Illinois 🎯 How Illinois should attack Purdue's defense ⚠️ What's gone wrong defensively for Purdue 👀 Ryan Brown vs. the new-look Illini defense 💥 Why this could become a shootout 🔑 Keys to victory for Illinois 📊 Final Illinois-Purdue predictions 🏀 BONUS: Illinois and Purdue basketball outlooks Can Illinois use Homecoming and the Purdue matchup as the turning point of its season? Drop your score prediction in the comments! SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football and basketball. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BretBielema #Purdue #BigTenFootball #CollegeFootball The offensive matchup is particularly important because the Purdue side identifies its pass rush and coverage over the middle as major weaknesses, while Houser has already surpassed 1,000 passing yards with nine touchdowns against two interceptions entering the matchup. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2d ago·31 min

Lincoln Riley faces intense scrutiny after USC mishandles a crucial moment and falls to Oregon, raising questions about culture and leadership in the Trojans’ locker room. Can Riley’s squad rebound against a struggling Washington team at home, or will pressure hit a breaking point? Meanwhile, Iowa stuns Michigan with a dramatic finish—setting up a high-stakes clash with undefeated Ohio State in Iowa City. Are the Hawkeyes poised for another giant upset? The Big 10 Squad breaks down the Big Ten’s must-watch matchups, key storylines, and playoff implications. Discussion spans player development at USC, Iowa’s relentless defense, Ohio State’s shaky run support, and the playoff picture for Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin. Fan picks, conference predictions, and bold score forecasts round out the Big Ten’s most comprehensive weekend preview. Will underdogs prevail, or do powerhouses hold their ground? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware . Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club , featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2d ago·29 min

Why did Brad Underwood select Dāvids Mirkovič and Andrej Stojaković to represent Illinois basketball at Big Ten Media Days? Is the decision a clue about the Illini's leadership and expectations for the upcoming season? On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down Illinois' Media Day selections and explains why Stojaković's inclusion over Tomislav Ivišić is particularly interesting. 🏀 DĀVIDS MIRKOVIČ: THE FACE OF ILLINOIS? After an impressive freshman campaign, Mirkovič enters his sophomore season with enormous expectations. We discuss his potential leap, his unique playmaking ability, NBA aspirations and encouraging signs surrounding his recovery from surgery. 🔥 ANDREJ STOJAKOVIĆ: A MESSAGE FROM UNDERWOOD? Stojaković finished last season playing some of his best basketball. But can he deliver that production consistently? Could his selection for Big Ten Media Days be Underwood's way of challenging him to embrace a bigger leadership role? 👀 WHAT ABOUT TOMISLAV IVIŠIĆ? Tomislav was originally selected for last year's Media Days before a medical issue prevented him from attending. Why wasn't he selected this time? We explore the possible reasoning behind Underwood's decision. 🤘 ILLINOIS VS. TEXAS? A report suggests Illinois and Texas are close to arranging a future home-and-home basketball series, potentially beginning in Austin. We discuss the possible matchup and why it fits Underwood's demanding nonconference scheduling philosophy. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage! Join our free Talk Illini Discord community. Link in the channel description. Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the app, create an account and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #BradUnderwood #LockedOnIllini #BigTenBasketball ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

3d ago·28 min

Five-star Brady Pettigrew is coming to Champaign! Is the No. 1 basketball prospect in Illinois also Brad Underwood's most important recruiting target? On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down Pettigrew's upcoming official visit on Friday, October 2, his explosive scoring ability, impressive Nike EYBL production and why landing the Bolingbrook star would be so significant for Illinois basketball. Could the Fighting Illini secure a commitment this weekend, or will Pettigrew continue taking official visits? Then we switch to Illinois football, where Bret Bielema faces a critical Homecoming matchup against Purdue following the departure of defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck after just four games. Illinois enters Saturday at 2-2, searching for its first Big Ten victory. Can Katin Houser and the offense take advantage of Purdue's defensive struggles? Will Illinois show immediate defensive improvement under new leadership? And what would a loss mean for the rest of the Illini's season? Two huge stories. One massive weekend for Illinois athletics. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #IllinoisFootball #Illini #BretBielema #BigTenFootball #LockedOnIllini ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4d ago·29 min

Bret Bielema has made a major change to Illinois football after just four games, moving on from defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck. But is the Illini's season really in trouble, or can Illinois turn things around? On this Big Ten Squad crossover, Locked On Illini host Sunny Verma joins Spencer McLaughlin and Locked On Badgers host Ryan Harings to discuss the state of Illinois football, Wisconsin's huge victory at Penn State and the road ahead for both Big Ten programs. Despite Illinois' defensive struggles, the offense showed plenty of promise against Ohio State. Katin Houser threw for 263 yards, Aiden Laughery rushed for 113 yards and the Illini totaled 462 yards against the Buckeyes. We discuss whether Bielema's defensive shakeup can rescue the season, why Illinois' offense gives fans reason for optimism and how the Illini's remaining schedule could provide opportunities to bounce back. PLUS: Wisconsin's breakthrough win under Luke Fickell, the Badgers' remaining schedule and whether Wisconsin or Illinois will finish with more victories this season. IN THIS EPISODE: 🏈 Why Illinois moved on from Bobby Hauck 🔥 Katin Houser and the Illini offense against Ohio State 🚨 Illinois' defensive communication problems 👀 Can the Illini turn things around against Purdue? 🦡 Wisconsin's huge win at Penn State 📊 Illinois vs. Wisconsin: Who finishes with more wins? 🔮 The future of Bret Bielema's program Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. #IllinoisFootball #Illini #BretBielema #BigTenFootball #LockedOnIllini ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4d ago·11 min

Bret Bielema finally explained what led to Bobby Hauck's sudden departure from Illinois football — but one major question remains unanswered: Who is going to call the Illini defense against Purdue? Bielema declined to name a new defensive playcaller, reveal whether that coach will work from the field or booth, or even explain exactly how much the scheme will change. But could that secrecy actually be intentional? On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma explains why keeping Ronnie Bradford, Roger Cooper and the rest of Illinois' defensive plans under wraps may force Barry Odom and Purdue to prepare for multiple possibilities. Illinois may have very few advantages coming out of the Hauck situation, but uncertainty could be one of them. We also dive into Bart Torvik's early projections for Illinois basketball. David Mirkovic is projected as the Illini's leading scorer, while Stefan Vaaks comes in at just 8.4 points per game. Are those projections underestimating Vaaks? Is Andrej Stojaković really going to score fewer points than last season? And could Ethan Brown force his way into Brad Underwood's rotation? Plus, why Bret Bielema's reaction following the Ohio State loss gives Sunny some optimism about where Illinois football goes from here. 🏀 Illinois basketball projections 🏈 Bobby Hauck's departure ♟️ Bret Bielema vs. Barry Odom ❓ Ronnie Bradford or Roger Cooper? 🔥 Stefan Vaaks breakout potential 🟠 Can Illinois rebound against Purdue? Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #BretBielema #BigTenFootball ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

5d ago·30 min

Bobby Hauck is out after just four games as Illinois defensive coordinator. Now Bret Bielema has an immediate decision to make: Who is going to call the Fighting Illini defense against Purdue? On this episode of Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down the three most logical options already inside the Illinois football program: secondary coach Ronnie Bradford, inside linebackers coach Roger Cooper and Bielema himself. With Purdue coming to Champaign for Homecoming, Illinois doesn't have time to completely rebuild its defensive system. The immediate priority could instead be simplifying the scheme, improving communication and getting the Illini defense playing faster. Ronnie Bradford? Roger Cooper? Bret Bielema? We break down each option and explain why Bradford might represent the cleanest transition for Illinois. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

6d ago·27 min

🚨 BREAKING NEWS: Illinois is making a stunning change at defensive coordinator just FOUR games into the 2026 season. Bret Bielema announced Sunday that Illinois and first-year defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck have mutually agreed to part ways following the Fighting Illini's 42-19 loss at Ohio State. The Bobby Hauck experiment is officially over. Hauck was hired in February after a highly successful run as Montana's head coach, with Bielema hoping his aggressive defensive philosophy could give Illinois a different identity. Instead, Illinois struggled to generate sacks and turnovers while communication and organizational issues continued to surface. Those problems became particularly concerning against Ohio State, including Illinois having only nine defensive players on the field for one snap. Bielema also discussed the Buckeyes recognizing Illinois' defensive calls on explosive plays. On this BREAKING NEWS edition of Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma explains why Bielema deserves responsibility for the Hauck gamble — but also credit for recognizing so quickly that it wasn't working. Why did Illinois make such a drastic change after only four games? Who could take over the defense? Could Bret Bielema become more involved? And can changing defensive leadership keep a 2-2 Illinois season from going off the rails? The Bobby Hauck era lasted four games. Now Illinois has six days to figure out what comes next. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. Butcher Box If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 27·29 min

Illinois football falls 42-19 to Ohio State in Columbus, but the final score doesn't tell the entire story. On today's Locked On Illini postgame show, Sunny Verma breaks down why the Fighting Illini's performance against the Buckeyes actually left him feeling MORE optimistic about the rest of the season. Illinois produced more than 460 yards of offense against an elite Ohio State defense and repeatedly created opportunities to make this a much closer game. Katin Houser threw for 263 yards, Aidan Laughery rushed for 113 yards and the Illini continued to find offensive production even with Ohio State focusing heavily on Collin Dixon. But Illinois also left plenty of points on the field. Houser missed multiple potential touchdown throws, receivers couldn't finish several big opportunities and the Illini came up empty on critical fourth downs. Defensively, there were still major concerns — especially after Jeremiah Smith exploded for 217 yards and four touchdowns — but Illinois showed improvement in several areas and continued to fight throughout the game. So what should Illinois fans take away from a 42-19 loss? Sunny explains why this performance changed his outlook on the rest of the Big Ten schedule and why games against Purdue, Michigan State, UCLA, Maryland and others suddenly look much more winnable. Let me know in the comments: Did the Ohio State game make you MORE or LESS confident about Illinois moving forward? It's a great time to be an Illini. #IllinoisFootball #Illini #FightingIllini #OhioState #BigTenFootball Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 26·33 min

Bret Bielema has made it clear he is NOT a fan of the Big Ten’s new availability-reporting rules — and Illinois linebacker Daniel Brown may have already provided the perfect example of why. Illinois released its first mandatory availability report Wednesday ahead of its matchup with Ohio State, and Brown was not listed, meaning he was considered available. On Thursday, Bielema told reporters he expected Brown to play Saturday. Then Thursday night? Daniel Brown was suddenly listed as QUESTIONABLE. So did we actually learn more about Brown’s availability — or did the Big Ten’s new system somehow create even more uncertainty? On today’s Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down the Big Ten’s expanded availability-reporting policy, why Bielema called the process a “colossal pain,” what happened with Brown and why requiring four separate reports during game week may be excessive. There are legitimate benefits to increased transparency, especially for fans and media. But as college football continues to look more and more like the NFL, are these new availability reports another example of the sport becoming increasingly professionalized? Plus, what does Brown’s changing status mean for Illinois ahead of its matchup with Ohio State? SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 25·29 min

Big Ten title hopes hang in the balance as Michigan hosts Iowa in a high-stakes showdown. Can the Hawkeyes’ revitalized offense under Tim Lester finally break through, or will Michigan’s elite defense keep them in check? The Big 10 Squad debates each team’s keys to victory, while panelists weigh the odds and point spreads, questioning whether Kirk Ferentz’s road warriors can pull off a major upset. The spotlight also shifts to USC and Oregon as Lincoln Riley’s job security comes under scrutiny. Is this a must-win for the Trojans, or will Dan Lanning and the Ducks reclaim their swagger on the West Coast? The crew breaks down pivotal matchups across the conference, including upsets to watch in Wisconsin-Penn State and Minnesota-Washington, plus the intrigue of a UCLA-Maryland clash. Don’t miss rapid-fire picks and banter on which Big Ten teams are poised to shake up the national landscape.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code  Locked On  to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.    SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM  to learn more about becoming a Trade Master.  Use promo code  S H 5 College  for five percent off your first order.   SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.  Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon .   Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod   LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at  https:// BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE .  5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon.  Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code  LOCKEDON  for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel.  Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel.  Join all the action at  https://FANDUEL.COM    FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 24·34 min

Can Katin Houser and the Illinois Fighting Illini make things interesting against Ohio State? On this special crossover edition of Locked On Illini and Locked On Buckeyes, Sunny Verma joins Matt Fontana and former Ohio State quarterback Justin Zwick to break down the battle for the Illibuck and everything Illinois will face against the Buckeyes. Katin Houser has been one of the biggest bright spots for Illinois, showing impressive accuracy and an ability to work through his progressions. Collin Dixon has emerged as his favorite target, while Braden Trimble and freshman running back Javari Barnett could become important X-factors for the Illini offense. But the biggest concern is on the other side of the football. Illinois' new 3-3-5 defense has struggled early in the season, particularly up front, and now has to deal with an Ohio State offense featuring Jeremiah Smith and an attack looking to establish its running game. The Illini secondary may be the most talented position group on the roster, but can it hold up if Ohio State controls the line of scrimmage? ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 24·30 min

Brad Underwood and Illinois basketball continue to attract some of the best high school prospects in the country. On today's Locked On Illini, we break down another major recruiting visit for the Fighting Illini and what the growing list of elite prospects coming to Champaign says about the trajectory of the program. Then, we dive into Benjamin "Benji" Berrouet, one of the most fascinating prospects in the 2028 class. Berrouet is scheduled to take an official visit to Illinois on Nov. 5 when the Illini host Penn at State Farm Center. Illinois only offered Berrouet in July, making the quick progression to an official visit particularly noteworthy. Berrouet has produced eye-popping numbers both in the United States and internationally. The powerful 6-foot-7/6-foot-8 forward averaged 17 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks at Peach Jam before putting together a dominant run for Latvia at the 2026 FIBA U16 EuroBasket. We discuss what makes Berrouet such an intriguing fit for Brad Underwood, why his versatility is about much more than his size, and the bigger trend developing with Illinois recruiting. Illinois isn't going to land every elite prospect who visits Champaign. But elite prospects keep visiting Champaign. And that's becoming a story of its own. SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 22·28 min

Illinois basketball just made a major move in the recruitment of five-star center Darius Wabbington. On today's Locked On Illini, we break down a huge recruiting weekend in Champaign and why Wabbington moving his Illinois official visit up by more than a month could be significant for Brad Underwood and the Illini. Illinois wasn't even included in Wabbington's top six earlier this summer. Now the Illini have hosted one of the nation's premier 2027 centers before his important visit to hometown contender Arizona. How did Illinois get this far this quickly? Why does Wabbington fit what Brad Underwood wants from his big men? And can the Illini legitimately beat Arizona, Indiana and Texas for the five-star prospect? We also break down the newly released Illinois men's basketball schedule, including the biggest games, toughest stretches and matchups Illini fans should circle. On today's show: 🏀 Illinois basketball schedule breakdown 🔥 Darius Wabbington visits Champaign ⭐ How Illinois went from outside his top six to a serious contender 🌵 Why Arizona represents such a major threat 👀 Wabbington's potential fit in Brad Underwood's offense 🇺🇸 His connection with Illinois freshman Quentin Coleman 📈 What Illinois' recent five-star recruiting activity says about the program It's a great time to be an Illini. SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini coverage. #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #CollegeBasketball #BigTen #DariusWabbington #BradUnderwood ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 21·29 min

Illinois football took care of business. The Fighting Illini rolled past Southern Illinois 48-10, piling up 503 yards of total offense in a dominant performance. Katin Houser finished 23-of-29 for 305 yards and two touchdowns, while Colin Dixon continued his incredible start to the season with 8 catches for 131 yards. Illinois also got encouraging performances from Hudson Clement, Braden Trimble and freshman running back Javari Barnett. But perhaps the most encouraging development came defensively. After Southern Illinois tied the game 7-7, the Illini outscored the Salukis 41-3 the rest of the way, holding SIU to just 29 rushing yards and a 3-for-15 mark on third down. Illinois is 3-0, but the degree of difficulty is about to change dramatically. A win is a win is a win. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football and basketball. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #CollegeFootball #B1GFootball #LockedOnIllini The statistical details and your assessment of the offense/defense here come directly from the postgame show. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 19·30 min

Big Ten faces scrutiny as Michigan’s controversial win sparks debate—can the conference restore its reputation before playoff selections loom? The Big 10 Squad breaks down the FBS Oversight Committee’s ruling on the Michigan–Western Michigan officiating drama and question the value of public apologies with no actual remedies. With underwhelming showings from Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and more, is Indiana really the conference’s best hope for national championship glory? The panel spotlights UCLA’s momentum, USC’s 30-point fourth-quarter leads, and Washington’s offensive woes—while poking fun at Purdue’s heartache and Maryland’s September hot streak. Are the Big Ten’s marquee teams ready to step up, or will non-traditional contenders like Maryland and Indiana carry the torch? Matchups to watch include Colorado at Northwestern and Virginia Tech at Maryland, with playful shots and bold predictions adding intrigue to the Big Ten’s unpredictable landscape.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code  Locked On  to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.    SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM  to learn more about becoming a Trade Master.  Use promo code  S H 5 College  for five percent off your first order.   SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.  Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com . And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details.  Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware .   Protect yourself now.    Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life.  Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase.   Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at  http://Indeed.com/podcast . Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod   LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at  https:// BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE .  5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon.  Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code  LOCKEDON  for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days.  Join all the action at  https://FANDUEL.COM    FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 17·30 min

The Illinois Fighting Illini Big Ten basketball schedule is officially here — and one stretch could determine whether Brad Underwood's team can win a conference championship. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down the complete Big Ten schedule, including a loaded stretch featuring Indiana, USC, UCLA, Michigan State, Michigan and Purdue — with North Carolina also mixed into the schedule. Is Illinois talented enough to survive that gauntlet and make a run at the Big Ten title? Sunny gives his early conference record prediction and explains why the schedule may ultimately set up pretty well for the Illini. Plus, we switch to football and discuss the emergence of Collin Dixon, who has exploded for 17 catches, 236 yards and five touchdowns through two games. Has Kayden Houser already found his WR1? We also touch on the Illinois women's basketball schedule and the latest Illini football recruiting news. SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football and basketball. Your Team. Every Day. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 17·28 min

Could a new federal bill force Brad Underwood and Illinois basketball to rethink international recruiting? Brad Underwood has increasingly made international recruiting part of Illinois basketball's roster-building strategy, bringing players to Champaign from basketball pipelines around the world. On a typical 15-player basketball roster, a 20% limit could mean only three players who meet the legislation's definition of an international student-athlete. Sunny Verma breaks down what the TEAM USA Act proposes, why its sponsors introduced it, how it could affect Illinois men's and women's basketball and why sports such as golf and tennis could face even greater roster changes. Plus: Would a limit actually hurt Illinois—or simply make Brad Underwood's international recruiting connections even more valuable? IMPORTANT: The TEAM USA Act is proposed federal legislation. It is not currently law or an NCAA roster rule. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football, Illinois basketball, recruiting and Fighting Illini athletics. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 16·28 min

Illinois football is off to a 1-1 start, and frustration is already building around the Fighting Illini. But one target of criticism makes absolutely no sense to me: Larry Gies. Gies made a historic $100 million contribution to Illinois Athletics, helping fund major improvements surrounding Gies Memorial Stadium and the future of the athletic department. Yet some Illinois fans have questioned why that money went toward facilities instead of being directed entirely toward NIL and player acquisition. I think that criticism is completely misplaced. If Illinois football underachieves in 2026, there are legitimate questions to ask about Bret Bielema's roster construction, coaching changes, transfer-portal decisions and the performance of the football team itself. A donor deciding to give Illinois Athletics $100 million isn't the problem. In today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma explains why Illinois should be trying to find more people like Larry Gies, not criticizing the biggest athletic donor in school history. It's a great time to be an Illini. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 15·29 min

Illinois basketball legend Ayo Dosunmu is officially an Illinois Athletics Hall of Famer, and his comments during Hall of Fame weekend were a reminder of just how much he changed the trajectory of the program. Ayo discussed choosing Illinois when staying home wasn't necessarily the popular decision for elite Chicago recruits, why coming to Illinois was the “best decision of my life,” and the legacy he wanted to leave in Champaign. Sunny Verma breaks down why Ayo's impact goes far beyond the statistics and why there may be a clear dividing line between Illinois basketball before and after Ayo Dosunmu. Then we turn back to Illinois football and hand out player grades after the disappointing loss to Duke, including Kayden Houser, Collin Dixon, the offensive line, linebackers, secondary and Bret Bielema's coaching staff. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball. Your Team. Every Day. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 14·31 min

Illinois football is searching for answers after a disastrous loss to Duke, and Bret Bielema may now be facing one of the most important stretches of his Fighting Illini tenure. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma reacts to Bielema's comments following the loss and examines what went wrong with Illinois' defense, the move to the 3-3-5, and whether Bielema and defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck can get things corrected before Big Ten play heats up. Plus, Illinois women's basketball has rewarded Shauna Green after her remarkable turnaround of the program, and we take a look around a rough weekend for the Big Ten. On today's show: 🏈 Why the next few weeks are critical for Bret Bielema 🔶 Can Illinois fix the 3-3-5 defense? 🏈 What the Duke loss exposed about the Illini 👀 Why the season isn't over yet 🏀 Illinois rewards Shauna Green 📈 How Green transformed Illinois women's basketball 😳 Illinois wasn't the only Big Ten team with a disastrous weekend It's a great time to be an Illini! ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Omaha Steaks Shop proteins you can trust at https://www.Omaha Steaks.com. And right now, get 2 pounds of premium ground beef FREE with orders over $129 using code COLLEGE at checkout. Terms apply. See site for details. Aura Cybersecurity Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware. Protect yourself now. Wayfair Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase. Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 13·29 min

Illinois football suffers its first major disappointment of the season, falling 31-27 to Duke in Champaign. Sunny Verma reacts immediately after the loss on Locked On Illini. The Illini defense struggled once again, particularly against Duke running back Nate Sheppard, but the offense deserves plenty of criticism as well after scoring just three points in the second half. We break down: 🏈 What went wrong for the Illinois defense 🏈 Why the 3-3-5 continues to be a major concern 🏈 Kayden Houser's difficult finish 🏈 Barry Lunney Jr.'s late-game play calling 🏈 Bret Bielema's responsibility for the defensive roster and scheme 🏈 Collin Dixon's huge first half 🏈 Whether Illinois can still reach six wins 🏈 Your LIVE postgame reactions and comments The defense gave Illinois opportunities to win. The offense couldn't capitalize. Now there are legitimate questions about just how good this Illini team can be. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. 🔶 Your Team. Every Day. 🔷 It's a great time to be an Illini. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #CollegeFootball #BigTenFootball #LockedOnIllini ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 12·34 min

Illinois football faces its first major test of the season as Duke comes to Champaign for a Week 2 showdown. Locked On Illini's Sunny Verma is joined by Locked On Blue Devils host JJ Jackson for a full crossover preview of Saturday's Illinois-Duke matchup. The Illini are coming off a 42-23 victory over UAB, but there are still major questions surrounding Bobby Hauck's new 3-3-5 defense. Now Illinois has to deal with Duke running back Nate Shepherd after his monster 227-yard performance. We break down: 🏈 Can Illinois slow down Nate Sheppard and Duke's rushing attack? 🏈 What Duke fans should expect from Katin Houser 🏈 Why Illinois' offense could create major problems for Duke 🏈 The biggest concerns surrounding the Illini defense 🏈 Duke's revamped defense under Manny Diaz 🏈 Why getting an early lead could completely change the matchup 🏈 Special teams and the potential X-factor in a close game 🏈 Final Illinois-Duke score predictions Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. Your Team. Every Day. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #CollegeFootball #BigTen ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. SupplyHouse Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Make this Your Most Rewarding Season Ever with FanDuel. Get $350 in Bonus Bets — GUARANTEED — when you bet five dollars every day for seven days. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 11·30 min

Controversy rocks the Big Ten as Michigan escapes Western Michigan with a wild, disputed win—will the College Football Playoff Committee remember? The Big 10 Squad debates the infamous “Clockgate,” field stormings, and the reputation of officiating when blue blood programs are on the line. Hosts preview marquee matchups: Ohio State vs. Texas and Michigan vs. Oklahoma have the Big Ten’s reputation hanging in the balance. Can Ryan Day’s Buckeyes outduel Arch Manning’s Longhorns? Is Bryce Underwood’s starting job in trouble as Michigan faces a ferocious Sooners defense? Rapid-fire picks, inside jokes, and sharp takes fuel the squad’s preview of CyHawk rivalry, Minnesota vs. Mississippi State, and Illinois vs. Duke. Can the Big Ten show out in huge non-conference tests, or is another shakeup on the horizon? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 10·31 min

Illinois basketball finally got some positive injury news on David Mirkovic — but now another member of the Illini frontcourt is dealing with an injury. On today’s Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down the latest updates from Brad Underwood’s preseason event: 🏀 David Mirkovic is out of the walking boot as he continues his recovery 🏀 Tomislav Ivisic is back in Champaign after resolving his visa situation 🏀 Zvonimir Ivisic was spotted with his hand/wrist in a cast 🏀 What the injuries mean for Illinois’ frontcourt rotation 🏀 Could Jason Jakstys benefit from additional practice reps? 🏀 Why Big Z could be one of Illinois’ most important players this season Plus, we discuss the controversial ending to Michigan-Western Michigan and why the Big Ten is expanding transparency around its replay process. And another college basketball eligibility ruling raises even more questions about where the sport is headed. SUBSCRIBE for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage on Locked On Illini! 🔶 Your Team. Every Day. 🔷 Fighting Illini football & basketball coverage #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #CollegeBasketball #BigTen ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 10·29 min

Stefan Vaaks has a message for his former school: he doesn’t regret choosing Illinois. On today’s Locked On Illini, we react to Vaaks revealing that he was told he would regret leaving Providence — and why his response should have Illini fans fired up. We also break down what role Vaaks could play for Brad Underwood, especially while David Mirkovic works his way back. Plus, Brad Underwood isn’t running away from the expectations surrounding this Illinois basketball team. After reaching the Final Four last season, Underwood says this year’s squad is deserving of the hype — and believes Illinois is even bigger than it was a year ago. What does that say about the expectations in Champaign? Izzy Randazzo also makes her Locked On Illini debut to help break down Vaaks, Underwood and a potentially loaded Illinois roster. 🏀 Stefan Vaaks responds to his former coach 🔥 What Vaaks can bring to Illinois 🏆 Brad Underwood embraces Final Four/National Championship expectations 📏 Why Illinois continues getting bigger 🎙️ Izzy Randazzo makes her Locked On Illini debut 🏈 Plus: Early Illinois football rankings talk and a look ahead to Duke Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini coverage. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 9·30 min

Something is changing with Illinois basketball recruiting. After Brad Underwood led the Fighting Illini to the Final Four, Illinois is preparing to host an impressive collection of elite basketball prospects over the next several weeks. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma looks at the massive recruiting stretch ahead for Illinois: ⭐ NaVorro Bowman Jr. — September 10 ⭐ Moussa Kamissoko — September 18 ⭐ Bentley Lusakueno — September 19 ⭐ Brady Pettigrew — October 2 ⭐ Darius Wabbington — October 23 The significance isn't that Illinois will land all five. That's unrealistic in national recruiting. The bigger story is that Brad Underwood is consistently getting Illinois into serious conversations with some of the best high-school basketball players in the country. Is this the Final Four effect beginning to show up on the recruiting trail? We discuss how Illinois' national perception has changed, why getting prospects to Champaign matters, how Underwood's international and transfer-portal strategy can coexist with elite high-school recruiting, and what would make this stretch a success for the Fighting Illini. 🔶 SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. Who is the ONE recruit from this group you most want Illinois to land? #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #BradUnderwood #CollegeBasketball #BasketballRecruiting ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 8·30 min

Katin Houser couldn't have asked for a much better Illinois football debut. The Fighting Illini opened the 2026 season with a 42-23 victory over UAB, extending their nonconference winning streak to 10 games. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma hands out his three stars of the game from Illinois' Week 1 victory. ⭐ Katin Houser — The ECU transfer completed 13-of-17 passes for 182 yards and three touchdowns while adding another score on the ground. ⭐ Will Holmes — Holmes generated consistent pressure and helped force the fourth-quarter interception that Ismael Kante returned 59 yards for a touchdown. ⭐ Colin Dixon — Six targets, six receptions, 70 yards and two touchdowns as the early connection between Dixon and Houser was on full display. Illinois wasn't perfect. UAB finished with 413 total yards and controlled possession for more than 41 minutes, giving Bret Bielema and his staff plenty to address before Duke comes to Champaign. But the Illini are 1-0, and their new quarterback gave fans plenty of reason for optimism. Who were YOUR three stars against UAB? Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #KatinHouser #CollegeFootball #BigTen ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 6·28 min

------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 4·41 min

Big Ten football returns with heavyweight matchups and major questions: Can UCLA’s Bruins outduel the California Golden Bears in a battle of seasoned quarterbacks and new-look coaching staffs? Is Cal’s offense, powered by transfers like Ian Strong and Dorian Thomas, poised to shock the conference? The Big 10 Squad debates the hottest showdowns, bold picks, and the ongoing “beauty bias” hype around UCLA’s Bob Chesney. From upset alerts with Michigan State vs. Toledo to whether Fresno State can spoil USC’s home opener, the crew forecasts which Big Ten giants might stumble against the spread. The panel spotlights quarterback battles, roster turnover, and quirky traditions—like on-air apple pie bets. Will Wisconsin hang with Notre Dame at Lambeau? Can Marshall or Indiana State cover massive lines? Dive in for sharp betting angles, rivalry banter, and comprehensive Week 1 predictions across the Big Ten landscape. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 3·29 min

The NBA has handed the Los Angeles Clippers a massive punishment following its investigation into salary-cap circumvention involving Kawhi Leonard — and the consequences could eventually have a major impact on former Illinois star Keaton Wagler. The Clippers will forfeit FIVE consecutive first-round draft picks from 2029 through 2033, pay a $30 million fine, and deal with major organizational suspensions. Wagler didn't do anything wrong, and none of the punishment changes his rookie contract or his place with the Clippers after Los Angeles selected him fifth overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. But it DOES change the resources Los Angeles will have available to eventually build a championship contender around him. Sunny Verma breaks down what the Clippers did, why the NBA came down so hard, why losing five first-round picks matters so much, and what options Los Angeles still has through trades, free agency, player development, second-round picks and other avenues. Plus, could the punishment actually make Wagler even MORE important to the Clippers' future? 🔶 Subscribe for daily Illinois Fighting Illini coverage 🔷 Join the conversation in the comments and give me your Illinois-UAB score prediction 🏈 Locked On Illini — Your Team. Every Day. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #CollegeFootball #BigTen #ILL ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 2·29 min

Illinois football is finally back. The Fighting Illini open the 2026 season Thursday night against UAB, and while Illinois enters as a massive favorite, there are still plenty of questions that need answers. On today's Locked On Illini, we break down what I need to see from Kayden Houser in his first start, the rebuilt Illinois offensive line, the depleted wide receiver room and — most importantly — Bobby Hauck's new 3-3-5 defense. Can the defensive line generate pressure? Will the new-look defense play fast and aggressive? Can Brayden Trimble take advantage of his opportunity? And can Houser show that Illinois won't experience a major drop-off at quarterback? Plus, we discuss Bret Bielema's final updates before kickoff, the latest on Jayshon Platt and Daniel Brown, Illinois' special-teams decisions and the Illini's new seven-year extension with Nike. After months of talking about what the 2026 Illini could be, it's finally time to see them on the field. My prediction: Illinois 33, UAB 10. 🔶 Subscribe for daily Illinois Fighting Illini coverage 🔷 Join the conversation in the comments and give me your Illinois-UAB score prediction 🏈 Locked On Illini — Your Team. Every Day. #Illini #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #CollegeFootball #BigTen #ILL ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 1·28 min

Something special appears to be happening around Illinois basketball — and what happened in Champaign over the weekend might be the perfect example. Former Fighting Illini Keaton Wagler and Kylan Boswell returned to campus to work out with Illinois strength and conditioning coach Adam Fletcher. Later that evening, Wagler and Boswell joined Quentin Coleman and others for a 5-on-5 run at the ARC, where Illinois students packed the gym to watch. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma explains why this seemingly small moment represents something much bigger about what Brad Underwood has built in Champaign. Illinois has seen former players including Ayo Dosunmu, Terrence Shannon Jr., Marcus Domask and others continue returning to campus, maintaining relationships with coaches, staff, teammates and fans long after their Illinois careers ended. And perhaps Keaton Wagler is the perfect example. Wagler spent only one season at Illinois, yet he's already back in Champaign working with Adam Fletcher and playing basketball in front of Illinois students. In an era dominated by NIL, the transfer portal and constant roster movement, Illinois is showing that players don't need to spend four years at a school to develop a genuine connection to it. Brad Underwood has built a national contender. But perhaps just as importantly, he's built a place where players seem genuinely proud to call themselves Illini. It's a great time to be an Illini. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football, basketball, recruiting and more. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 31·28 min

Illinois basketball is coming off a Final Four appearance — but Brad Underwood isn't treating it like the culmination of what he's building in Champaign. During his conversation with Jon Rothstein, Underwood admitted that he thinks about returning to the Final Four “a lot” and explained why he believes Illinois is a program capable of getting back there. On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma explains why those comments matter beyond just preseason optimism. Illinois has retained a major portion of its roster, continues to invest heavily in basketball and appears to have alignment between Underwood, Josh Whitman, the coaching staff and the players. Is Illinois basketball entering a new era where Final Four expectations are no longer unrealistic? Plus, we turn to Illinois football as GAME WEEK arrives. Sunny explains why he's becoming increasingly optimistic about transfer quarterback Katin Houser, what Barry Lunney Jr. may be able to unlock in the veteran QB, and why the drop-off from Luke Altmyer might not be as significant as expected. Also discussed: 🏀 Brad Underwood's expectations after the Final Four 🏀 Illinois' roster retention 🏀 Why Champaign has become a destination 🏈 Katin Houser's fit in Barry Lunney Jr.'s offense 🏈 Illinois' quarterback situation 🏈 Michael Clayton Jr.'s future 🏈 Week 1 roster updates Subscribe to Locked On Illini for DAILY coverage of Illinois football, basketball and recruiting. It's a great time to be an Illini. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Square Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod ULTRA POUCHES Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 30·29 min

Illinois basketball has officially completed its 2026-27 roster. Brad Underwood and the Fighting Illini made a late addition Thursday night, signing Arizona State transfer guard Quentin McCoy to fill the 15th and final roster spot. McCoy, a 6-foot-3 junior and Chicago native, spent his first two college seasons at Arizona State after joining the Sun Devils as a walk-on. He appeared in nine games and played only six total minutes, so this isn't a transfer Illinois should be expecting to immediately crack the rotation. But could McCoy still provide value? On today's Locked On Illini, Sunny Verma breaks down why adding a player with two years of experience inside a Power Four basketball program makes sense for the bottom of Illinois' roster — especially with Brad Underwood welcoming a large group of freshmen this season. We also look back at McCoy's career at Lindblom Math and Science Academy, where he became a 1,000-point scorer, started at point guard and helped lead the Eagles to a regional championship. Illinois' roster is officially set. Now the question becomes how Brad Underwood puts all of these pieces together. SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 28·29 min

Big Ten sets the tone for college football as Tony Petitti leads a bold rule change, shutting out returning NFL players and prompting other power conferences to follow. Can this decisive action keep chaos at bay across the NCAA? Analysts weigh in on the repercussions for stars like Aaron Graves and examine how this “adult in the room” move shapes transfer eligibility and enforcement, with head coach suspensions and hefty fines on the table for violators. Week 0 kicks off with USC facing San Jose State, while Indiana’s projected 10.5 win total sparks lively debate. The squad discusses Big Ten contenders, breakthrough players like Josh Hoover and Bryce Underwood, and how new coaching dynamics could influence Michigan, Nebraska, and Rutgers’ season trajectories. Will Indiana defend its title, or is an upset brewing? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 27·29 min

Illinois football's wide receiver room has taken another hit just days before the 2026 season opener against UAB. Bret Bielema says FAU transfer Jayshon Platt is unlikely to play in Week 1, and his timetable beyond the opener remains uncertain. Platt arrived at Illinois after recording 46 receptions for 720 yards and five touchdowns at FAU and had generated significant buzz throughout the offseason. His injury comes after Illinois already lost FIU transfer Alex Perry for potentially the entire season, while other receivers have dealt with injuries throughout training camp. But the bad news could create a massive opportunity for sophomore Brayden Trimble. The former Mt. Zion standout has generated breakout buzz during Illinois training camp, earned recognition as a camp MVP and has drawn praise from Bielema for his development, preparation and attitude. On today's Locked On Illini, we discuss what Platt's injury means for Katin Houser and the Illinois offense, why the receiver depth is suddenly concerning, and whether this could be the opportunity that launches Brayden Trimble into a major role for the Fighting Illini in 2026. Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois football and Illinois basketball. ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli... For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 26·27 min

On today's Locked On Illini, I go game-by-game through the entire Illinois Fighting Illini football schedule — and the final prediction even surprised me.   Illinois opens with three manageable home games before the schedule gets considerably more difficult. How many wins can Bret Bielema's team pile up before matchups with Ohio State and Oregon? And what happens during a crucial closing stretch featuring Nebraska, UCLA, Iowa and Northwestern?   Then Big Kurt from the Eyes on B1G Podcast joins the show to give his own prediction. Somehow, we agree on almost EVERY game before finally disagreeing on the season finale against Northwestern.     We also discuss the ceiling and floor for Illinois, concerns surrounding the defense, Kaitin Houser and the offense, and why even a rebuilding year says a lot about how far Bret Bielema has raised the floor of this program.   👇 Drop YOUR Illinois record prediction in the comments.   🔔 Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage.   It's a great time to be an Illini.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois basketball and football coverage.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #CollegeBasketball #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at  http://Indeed.com/podcast . Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to  https://wayfair.com  right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less.  Wayfair. Every style. Every home.   LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https:// BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE .   Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at  https://Odoo.com/lockedon . 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code  LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.  FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 25·33 min

Illinois basketball is hosting another five-star recruit.   Class of 2027 wing Moussa Kamissoko is scheduled to make an official visit to Champaign in September as Brad Underwood and the Illini continue pursuing elite national talent.   Kamissoko is a top-20 prospect nationally, standing around 6-foot-7 with a nearly seven-foot wingspan. He averaged 16.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals in EYBL Scholastic play while shooting better than 51% from the field.   On today’s Locked On Illini, we break down:   What makes Kamissoko a five-star prospect His three-level scoring ability Why his length and defensive versatility stand out The importance of his rebounding and passing Where he still needs to improve Why his game fits Brad Underwood’s evolving positionless system How Illinois can sell him on development and NBA opportunity The biggest threats in his recruitment What landing another five-star visitor says about Illinois’ recruiting momentum   Kamissoko is still developing physically and as a shooter, but his combination of size, skill, mobility and two-way upside makes him one of the most intriguing players on Illinois’ 2027 recruiting board.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois basketball and football coverage.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #CollegeBasketball #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!  KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. LARINECO Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 24·30 min

Illinois basketball's non-conference schedule is officially set — and Brad Underwood isn't backing away from anybody.   The Fighting Illini will once again face one of the most challenging schedules in college basketball, with major matchups against Texas Tech, Duke, UConn, Missouri and North Carolina, plus exhibition games against Cincinnati and Baylor.   On today's Locked On Illini, we break down the entire schedule, identify the toughest games and discuss why this could once again prepare Illinois for a deep NCAA Tournament run.   But there's also one potential disappointment: where are the marquee games at the State Farm Center? For Illinois season-ticket holders, many of the biggest non-conference matchups will take place on the road or at neutral sites.   Then we continue our Illinois newcomer First Look series with freshman Zavier Zenz. The newest practice footage shows plenty of shooting from Zenz, but has it changed where he projects in Brad Underwood's rotation?   With Quentin Coleman, Lucas Morillo and Lincoln Williams all competing for minutes — and David Mirkovic's injury potentially changing Illinois' frontcourt rotation — we discuss whether Zenz can find meaningful minutes as a freshman.   Finally, Illinois football safety Matthew Bailey has been named to the Chuck Bednarik Award preseason watch list. We explain why Bailey's new "Chief" role in Bobby Hauck's 3-3-5 defense could make him one of the most important players on the Fighting Illini defense.   SUBSCRIBE to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football coverage.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #FightingIllini #CollegeBasketball #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 23·26 min

What will Lucas Morillo's role be for Illinois basketball this season?   The Fighting Illini released their latest First Look video featuring freshman Lucas Morillo, and after watching the new footage, I still have plenty of questions about where the talented freshman fits into Brad Underwood's rotation.   Morillo arrived at Illinois as a Top-50 prospect in the 2026 recruiting class. At 6-foot-8, he has the size and versatility to potentially play multiple positions, defend, make the right pass and become a valuable Swiss Army knife for the Illini.   But after an offseason injury limited some of his work with the team, how close is Morillo to being 100 percent? Could Lincoln Williams have passed him in the rotation? And with David Mirković currently sidelined, could Morillo eventually provide Illinois with minutes at the four?   We break down Illinois' new Lucas Morillo First Look footage and what it does—and doesn't—tell us.   Plus, ESPN's Jeremy Woo says NBA scouts are already paying close attention to Illinois freshman Quentin Coleman. After an impressive summer with Team USA, the CP3 camp and Nike Academy, could Coleman become Illinois' next one-and-done NBA Draft prospect?   We discuss Coleman's incredible rebounding, defensive versatility, shooting and why Illinois' veteran roster may actually create the perfect environment for the freshman to develop.   Finally, five Illinois football players have been named to the 2026 Senior Bowl Top 300 as the 2027 NFL Draft evaluation process begins.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #LucasMorillo #QuentinColeman #FightingIllini   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 21·29 min

Big Ten contenders fuel championship buzz as Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington jockey for playoff supremacy. Will Josh Hoover elevate Indiana’s defense into NCAA history, or can powerhouse rosters like Oregon and USC crash the party? Heated debates ignite around Penn State’s playoff chances, Washington’s leap to 10 wins, and the pivotal Indiana–Ohio State clash in Bloomington. Host Spencer McLaughlin and the Locked On Big Ten crew break down bold predictions, playoff math, and the season’s must-watch games—including USC vs. Oregon and Indiana’s high-stakes trip to Husky Stadium. Key topics include the potential for four Big Ten teams in the College Football Playoff, the rise of non-quarterback Heisman contenders, and which program could surprise or disappoint. How will coaching changes and stacked schedules redefine the Big Ten landscape in 2026? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 20·32 min

Illinois football officially announced its six captains for the 2026 season, and two names immediately stood out.   Quarterback Katin Houser and center Jake Renfro are both newcomers to the program, yet their teammates have already voted them into leadership roles. That says a lot about how quickly Houser has taken control of the quarterback room and how important Renfro is expected to be along the offensive line.   On today’s Locked On Illini, we break down all six captains:   Katin Houser Jake Renfro Matthew Bailey Xavier Scott Aidan Laughery Colin Dixon   We discuss why Houser’s captaincy should give Illinois fans confidence that the offense is in good hands, why Renfro may be one of the most important players on the roster if he can stay healthy, and what the full captain group tells us about Bret Bielema’s 2026 team.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball coverage.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 19·28 min

Illinois basketball is getting another five-star prospect on campus.   Five-star Class of 2027 center Darius Wabbington has scheduled an official visit to Champaign for Oct. 23-25 as Brad Underwood and Orlando Antigua continue their pursuit of elite talent.   Wabbington is ranked by 247Sports as the No. 15 overall prospect and No. 3 center in the 2027 class. Even more interesting? Illinois wasn't originally included in his final six. The Illini have now replaced Kentucky in a group that also features Arizona, Indiana, Louisville, North Carolina and Texas.   On today's Locked On Illini, we break down:   🏀 Why landing Wabbington's official visit matters 🏀 How Illinois worked its way into his final six 🏀 Why Wabbington's skill set looks tailor-made for Brad Underwood 🏀 His ability to pass and handle the ball at 6-foot-11, 245 pounds 🏀 The similarities to David Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic and Coleman Hawkins 🏀 Why Arizona may still be the team to beat 🏀 Wabbington's connection with Illinois freshman Quentin Coleman 🏀 How the Final Four run may be changing Illinois' recruiting ceiling 🏀 What Wabbington could mean for Illinois' 2027 recruiting class   Illinois isn't guaranteed to land Wabbington, but getting a five-star prospect who had already announced his finalists to reconsider his list and make an official visit to Champaign is another indication of where this program believes it belongs nationally.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football coverage.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 18·28 min

Sports Illustrated's Kevin Sweeney ranked the Illinois star as the No. 1 power forward in the country entering the 2026-27 college basketball season—and the reasoning behind the ranking could tell us even more about how Brad Underwood plans to use Mirković this year.   After a monster freshman season that helped Illinois reach the Final Four, Mirković could take on an even larger role as the primary offensive engine for the Fighting Illini.   We break down what makes the 6-foot-9 forward such a unique offensive weapon, how Illinois could use him as a point forward and why his versatility could help answer some of the questions surrounding the Illini's traditional point guard situation.   Plus, we discuss Mirković's breakout freshman season, his rebounding, shooting and passing ability and why an even bigger sophomore season could be coming once he returns from injury.   Later, the first AP Top 25 poll of the college football season is out—and Illinois isn't ranked. Should Illini fans be concerned?   We discuss where Illinois landed among teams receiving votes, expectations for Bret Bielema's team, the 7.5-win total, Katin Houser, the new 3-3-5 defense and what would constitute a successful Illinois football season.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 17·27 min

With David Mirković sidelined, could the 6-foot-9 freshman carve out an early role in Brad Underwood's rotation?   Illinois released its first extended look at Landon Davis during offseason workouts, and we break down the footage together. Davis arrived as a developmental prospect, but his size and willingness to shoot from three immediately stand out. Could he provide the Illini with valuable minutes while Mirković is unavailable?   We discuss Davis' shooting mechanics, physical development, defensive potential and what he would need to show to earn minutes in Brad and Tyler Underwood's offense.   Plus, Illinois football received some difficult injury news. Wide receiver Alex Perry is expected to undergo surgery for a nerve issue in his shoulder, and Bret Bielema is preparing as though Perry may miss the season.   We explain why losing Perry matters despite Illinois' talented wide receiver room, what late addition Josh Lorick brings to the roster and which Illini receivers could see expanded opportunities.   Finally, former Illinois star Devon Witherspoon just became the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history after agreeing to a massive extension with the Seattle Seahawks.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. .   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com  and use promo code  LOCKEDON at checkout. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com  or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code  LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at  https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.  FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 16·29 min

How much pressure is on Brad Underwood and Illinois basketball after reaching the Final Four?   On today's Locked On Illini mailbag, we discuss expectations for Brad Underwood after last season's Final Four run and whether another loaded Illinois roster should be expected to make another deep NCAA Tournament run.   Could this be the best roster Brad Underwood has ever assembled? What should constitute a successful season—and would anything short of the Elite Eight be a disappointment?   We also dive into Illinois basketball recruiting, including why Brady Pettigrew is the future Illini target I'm watching most closely, how much fans should believe offseason practice buzz, and whether this year's Illinois offense will play faster than last season.   Plus, who gets the ball when Illinois needs a bucket late? Stefan Vaaks? Andrej Stojaković? Quentin Coleman? David Mirković?   Then we turn to Illinois football and discuss expectations for Katin Houser, the Fighting Illini's 7.5-win line, the importance of the Nebraska and UCLA games and whether the rebuilt offensive line can hold up.   Subscribe to Locked On Illini for daily coverage of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball and football.   #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #BradUnderwood #FightingIllini     #Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #FightingIllini #BigTen   ------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!   Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com   FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...   TALK ILLINI DISCORD:   https://discord.gg/hx6kt3HSr   Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV   Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonilli...   For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.   Everydayer Club   If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.   Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!   KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get up to $500 in bonus credits when you trade $25.   The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout.   Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM to play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 14·29 min

Big Ten challengers slam SEC supremacy as preseason poll debate heats up. Can Michigan and Oregon silence doubters and reclaim conference bragging rights? The Big 10 Squad calls out SEC bias in the On3 preseason Top 25, question Florida’s ranking, and dissect how brand bias skews College Football Playoff perspectives. The team roasts Purdue Athletic Director Tommy McClelland’s bold jab at Indiana’s championship pedigree, with reactions spanning ridicule to strategy breakdowns. Plus, the spotlight shifts to Oregon’s daunting 10.5 win total—the hosts break down the Ducks’ season outlook, key matchups against Ohio State and USC, injury updates, and title-or-bust expectations for Dan Lanning’s squad. Don’t miss this spirited roundtable on Big Ten pride, preseason poll drama, and the true contenders for college football’s ultimate prize. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 13·28 min