Before Simeon Rice and Dana Howard and Dick Butkus, there was Illinois linebacker Bill Burrell. Burrell finished fourth in the 1959 Heisman Trophy balloting, and he was a consensus All-American.
Burrell is an Illini legend–but he’s just one of the many to be found in a new book that includes all of the glory and heartbreak and minutia of Fighting Illini athletics. “Illini Legends, Lists & Lore: 100 Years of Big Ten Heritage,” by Illinois sports information director Mike Pearson, is a rare compilation that will remind or educate fans about almost every facet of the school’s storied history.
Using a season-by-season strategy from 1895 to 1995, Pearson delivers information in capsule form. Each year includes: an Illini Moment, such as a description of the school’s first Big Ten track and field title in 1907; an Illini Item, such as two national champions in wrestling last season; an Illini Legend, such as Burrell; and an Illini List, such as the top-10 rushing plays at Memorial Stadium. The 276-page book sells for $29.95.
Another new book delves into a particularly intriguing Fighting Illini figure. Author Doug Cartland has written a 255-page biography about his grandfather, former football coach Ray Eliot.
“Ray Eliot: The Spirit and Legend of Mr. Illini,” which costs $19.95, gives an inside look at the legendary coach–with a special feel for his motivational prowess.
