*** APOLOGIES FOR TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES IN FIRST SEGMENT ***

Who will lead Illinois men’s basketball in scoring next season? Analytics guru Bart Torvik projects Tomislav Ivišić to top the Illini at 16.8 PPG — but is he really the best bet? We break down Ivišić’s game, Andrej Stojaković’s scoring potential, and why multiple Illini could be in that 15+ PPG range.

Plus — a full scouting report on 4-star 6’10 big man Eliou Diem, who just included Illinois in his final six schools. We evaluate his skill set, motor, and how he’d fit into Brad Underwood’s system… and why this might be more of a “wait and see” recruitment for the 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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/StSJqvTw

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

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.

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Gametime

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Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Big Ten football faces SEC dominance in AP Top 25. Can the conference prove its worth on the field?

Hosts dissect perceived SEC bias in rankings, with 10 SEC teams vs 6 Big Ten squads making the cut. The panel explores potential Big Ten expansion targets, weighing academic fit and competitive balance. Fall camp updates reveal key position battles and injury concerns across the conference. Spencer McLaughlin, Mark Culkin, and other team insiders offer exclusive insights on quarterback competitions, offensive line configurations, and defensive strategies.

Tune in for heated debates on team rankings, conference realignment possibilities, and insider perspectives on Big Ten football's evolving landscape.

Brad Underwood’s summer practice video just dropped — and it’s exactly what Illini fans have been hoping to see. From Kylan Boswell’s leadership to all-out hustle plays, Illinois Basketball’s identity is taking shape, and it’s built on toughness, maturity, and grit.

In this episode, we break down the most important takeaways from the video, why this team looks more physically and mentally ready than last year, and what Brad’s fiery “THIS is our identity” moment means for the season ahead.

Plus: 5-star 2026 wing Cameron Holmes is officially visiting Illinois on September 12th. We scout his game, explain why he’s a perfect fit in Brad Underwood’s system, and how his visit could be a turning point for the Illini’s 2026 recruiting class.

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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/StSJqvTw

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IN2dNjPvtM

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!

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

What if I told you Illinois Basketball’s key to a Final Four run could be a player most fans aren’t even talking about? In this episode, I break down why David Mirkovic might just be the Illini’s third-best player this season — and what that would mean for Brad Underwood’s lineup, Big Ten play, and a possible national title push.

Plus: We dive into ESPN’s preseason coverage (or lack thereof) of Illinois Football, why their analytics give the Illini less than a 4% playoff chance, and how national bias continues to undervalue Bret Bielema’s squad. We also hit quick notes on Illini wrestling champs returning, Brian Randle’s coaching move, and a fun “future Illini head coach” question for fans.

#Illini #IllinoisBasketball #IllinoisFootball #B1G #CollegeFootball

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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/StSJqvTw

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

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!

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Illinois Football is officially ranked #12 in the AP Preseason Top 25 — their highest debut in 35 years and first appearance since 2008. Host Sunny breaks down why this is a historic moment for the program, what it says about Bret Bielema’s rapid rebuild, and the expectations that come with national recognition. Plus, we talk Illini basketball’s offseason gains in the weight room, including the impressive transformation of Zvonimir Ivišić under Adam Fletcher.

📌 Today’s topics: The historical significance of Illinois’ #12 ranking

How past Illini teams have fared after strong preseason starts

What this means for recruiting & national perception Illinois basketball roster battles and strength program impact

Subscribe & join the conversation — Illini fans, is this the start of a new era or will history repeat itself?

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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/StSJqvTw

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

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!

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

It’s Flag Player season! In this special episode of Locked On Illini, I’m joined by Jeremy Werner of Illini Inquirer to pick our 2025 Illinois Football breakout stars on both offense and defense. We dive into the Illini’s high expectations, key position battles, and which unproven names could emerge as difference-makers this year.

We also hit on Illinois Basketball’s recent commits, the Illini’s national perception heading into the season, and rapid-fire questions from the community.

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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/StSJqvTw

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

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!

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Kent ( @CasualBigTen ) is BACK on Locked On Illini… and he’s bringing one of the boldest predictions we’ve heard all offseason: Illinois going 11–1 and making the Big Ten Championship Game. We break down his reasoning, the key games that could define the season, and why the Illini’s schedule might be more favorable than people think.

Then, we preview the Purdue Boilermakers with new Locked On host Nick Arvin — talking Ryan Walters’ failed tenure, Barry Odom’s rebuild, key offensive and defensive players, and where Purdue fits in the Big Ten pecking order. Plus, updates on Illini in the NFL and a sneak peek at Monday’s “Flag Players” episode with Jeremy Werner.

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?id=61564192637267

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/TTpTycPg

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

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!

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Time to fuel up and turn it up with 5-hour ENERGY®️ Transfusion! Go to https://5hourenergy.com today and use my promo code LOCKEDONGOLF to receive 20% off your order. This offer is only valid until September 30th on one order and cannot be used with other promotions. The code is not good on subscription orders.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

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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)

Big Ten football's future stars take center stage. Who will lead the conference in passing, rushing, and receiving?

Spencer McLaughlin and a panel of college football experts break down the top contenders for statistical dominance. From Ohio State's Julian Sayin drawing Dwayne Haskins comparisons to Oregon's Makai Hughes as a potential rushing leader, the discussion covers every angle. Dark horse candidates emerge, including Purdue's Devin Mockbee chasing rushing records and Nebraska's Dane Key making waves as a transfer.

Will Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith live up to the hype as the next great receiver? Can Drew Allar elevate Penn State's passing game? Tune in for insider predictions and heated debates on the Big Ten's offensive powerhouses.