The 1981 Illinois Fighting Illini football team was an American football team that represented the University of Illinois as a member of the Big Ten Conference during the 1981 Big Ten season. In their second year under head coach Mike White, the Illini compiled a 7–4 record (6–3 in conference games), finished in three-way tie for third place in the Big Ten, and were outscored by a total of 288 to 287.[1]
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The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Tony Eason with 3,360 passing yards, running back Calvin Thomas with 390 rushing yards, and wide receiver Oliver Williams with 760 receiving yards.[2] Several Illinois players ranked among the Big Ten leaders, including the following:
- Tony Eason led the conference with 248 pass completions, a 61.1 pass completion percentage, 3,360 passing yards, a 140.0 passing efficiency rating, 20 passing touchdowns, 14 interceptions, and 3,331 total yards.[3]
- Oliver Williams ranked third in the conference with six receiving touchdowns and 20.0 yards per reception and ranked fifth in the conference with 760 receiving yards.[3]
- Kirby Wilson ranked second in the conference with 546 kickoff return yards.[3]
- Mike Bass ranked third in the conference with 33 extra points made, fifth with 10 field goals and a 58.8% field goal percentage, and sixth with 63 points scored.[3]
The team played its home games at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois.
