Both Gary Pinkel and Illinois head coach Ron Zook discussed Saturday’s game and each team’s performance at the end of preseason camp at press conferences this week. Pinkel, eager to dodge questions about the Derrick Washington situation, talked about how much he enjoys the Illinois matchup in St. Louis, despite the fact that it is ending. Going into the game, he said he’s excited to see a more mature Blaine Gabbert command the offense. Zook also spoke about Gabbert and the Missouri offense and the team’s depth chart moves, typical stuff for a game week conference.
– Joan Niesen