At least the Chief doesn't see losses

As a lifelong University of Illinois fan who was born and raised in Illinois, I took my enthusiasm for the school and state all over the world in my travels.

But I am befuddled by how the UI can expect me to take the athletic program seriously. Virtually every shred of clothing I've ever owned is orange and blue. Recently, out of embarrassment, I bought a whole new wardrobe.

Head football coaches Mike White, John Mackovic Lou Tepper and Ron Turner all tried at some point to run the football program into the ground. Where they failed, Ron Zook has succeeded. I can no longer stomach another game.

Many preseason publications asserted the Illini had the second-highest talent level in the Big Ten. In the current Sagarin ratings, we are 126th nationally. If not talent, what is it?

Zook received a vote of confidence from UI athletic director Ron Guenther. Maybe we need to fill two positions with competent people.

At least Chief Illiniwek doesn't have to show his face at these debacles. I know a prominent judge and alum in the Quad Cities who was gushing about all the new amenities at Memorial Stadium. I'm eager to see how many paying fans show up to enjoy them for the last home game on Dec. 5.

Most national news media defer from being too harsh on television when describing a team. However, I must concur with ESPN's Mark May when he stated that "the Illini are horrible."

DAVID JAMES STROUD

Aledo