Illinois basketball did exactly what good teams are supposed to do. The Illini rolled past Rutgers 81–55 at State Farm Center in a game that was never truly in doubt. It wasn’t flashy, it wasn’t perfect — but it was businesslike, focused, and controlled. In this LIVE postgame, I break down: • Why this felt like a classic trap game — and why Illinois never let it become one • The difference between this team and past Brad Underwood teams • Defensive intensity, effort, and accountability • Tomislav Ivišić’s response game and why effort mattered most • Keaton Wagler’s continued rise and absurdly high floor • Why Illinois can win big even on a C+ night Plus, I react to live chat questions and what this win tells us heading into Iowa.

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