Illinois is 3-0 for the first time since 2001 and looks like a team to be taken seriously in the Big Ten Leaders Division.
The No. 24 Illini entered the Top 25 this week for the first time in three years after their 17-14 victory over then-No. 22 Arizona State.
A win over Western Michigan this week would give Illinois its first 4-0 start since 1951.
Illinois coach Ron Zook said he knew the defense would be better than many people predicted. Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase has improved as a passer, and A.J. Jenkins is one of the top receivers in the Big Ten.
Illinois has a favorable conference schedule, with Northwestern, Ohio State, Michigan and Wisconsin at home and Indiana, Purdue, Penn State and Minnesota on the road.
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