As GN noted below, the last road test on the 2008-09 schedule won't be an easy task. The Gophers draw #20 Illinois on the road where the Gophers haven't won since Jimmy Carter was in the Oval Office.
But for some reason, I have a good feeling about tonight. Maybe it's because I was able to get out on the golf course today in late February. That put me in good spirits. But seriously, I think we have a decent chance. I think our big men--Ralph Sampson III and Colton Iverson--match up well with less physical Mike Davis and Mike Tisdale.
I also think the Gophers enter the game with momentum and more to play for. The Illini aren't in a Big Ten title chase and they are securely in the NCAA Tournament. The Gophers should want this game more. I'm not going to predict a win, but I have a better feeling about this game then I have had for many lately. Oh, what the golf course does for my attitude!
Gametime is set for 7 p.m. eastern time and will be televised on the Big Ten Network. I'll see you in the gamethread.