The Sweet Sioux Tomahawk, which went to the winner of the Illinois-Northwestern football game each year, was retired last season, and the schools are seeking fans’ ideas for a replacement. You can vote for your favorite of four suggestions (below) or write in your own on the schools’ Web sites (fightingillini.com and nusports.com). You have until April 15. The schools say a new trophy will be chosen near the time of their spring games, April 25.
The 4 suggestions
Land of Lincoln Trophy. A replica of Lincoln’s stovepipe hat mounted on a piece of white oak (Illinois’ state tree).
President’s Trophy. Recognizing the four presidents with Illinois roots — Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama.
Popcorn Bowl. Named after Illinois’ state snack.
Graham-Grange Fire Bell. The series started in 1941 with a fire bell as the trophy. This would be named after greats from each school, Otto Graham of Northwestern and Red Grange of Illinois.
Our write-in candidates
Doughnut Hole. A tribute to the 1978 game, which ended in a 0-0 tie.
Golden Bleep Trophy. The winning team gets a gold-plated hairpiece, a tribute to the (formerly) Honorable Rod R. Blagojevich.
Pay-for-Play Cup. The victor receives a replica slot machine decorated with
Illini and Wildcat logos. Deposit 25 cents and nothing happens. Deposit $25,000 to win a no-bid state contract.
