Assistants desperate to get Ron Zook a win

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Updated: December 21, 2011 9:46AM

CHAMPAIGN — How much did the Illini want to beat No. 15 Wisconsin for coach Ron Zook?

“With everything in our power,’’ said an emotional Paul Petrino, the offensive coordinator. “And we want to win the next one for him. I want to win every game there is, ever — for the team, for my boss and for myself.’’

In another hint that Zook won’t return, Petrino advised Illini fans — without prompting — to be careful what they wish for.

“I wouldn’t be so happy to run everybody out of town,” he said. “This is a really good staff, a bunch of guys that bust their butt. I’ve been around a bunch of staffs, and there’s a lot of good coaches on this staff.’’

Petrino and defensive coordinator Vic Koenning are top-notch, as are many position coaches. If there’s a change, they’ll land on their feet. But this is about Zook.

Bad calls?

Petrino was not happy with the two offensive pass-interference calls against Illinois at the end of the first half for illegal picks.

“That’s a joke,’’ he said. “On the second one, their guy ran into us. Those people should have to look at my little kids, look them in the eye and tell them.’’

Reilly factor

As part of the changes Zook promised, freshman quarterback Reilly O’Toole saw his most extensive playing time, and Illinois passed more. The problem was O’Toole made freshman mistakes.

“One bad throw and one terrible decision,’’ O’Toole said of his two interceptions. “Those were just key mistakes.’’

On Wisconsin

Montee Ball’s three TDs give him 30 for the season. He’s the fifth major-college player to score at least 30 times in one season.

† Illinois held Wisconsin to a season-low 28 points.