In an unusual role reversal, Illini Football enters Christmas Day with some positive momentum following a successful Early Signing Period and the transfer of former blue-chip WR Jeff Thomas. All the while, Illinois Basketball — who after 5 consecutive wins over Mizzou from 2013 to 2017— is somewhat in the dumps after a poor showing in this year’s Braggin’ Rights game.

So, we asked Illini fans what gift they want for Christmas.

Naturally, Basketball was mostly on the mind, but some fans still want Football to continue its positive momentum.

Basketball

Sorry Michael but Santa can only do so much.

This is probably high on the list of several Illini Fans.

Yes!!! At TCR, we are big advocates of the Olympic Model. The FBI, however, feels differently. So, we do not anticipate that Santa will start funneling money to recruits. Sorry Pete.

Isn’t Leslie Knope a diehard Hoosier fan? Anyway, .500 in Big Ten Play might exceed Santa’s capabilities.

Santa, we just want Underwood to do his job. Is that too much to ask???

Patrick O’Dowd and Chris Gattuso are not asking for much here.

We hope Santa has some modern basketball concepts in his sleigh for Brad Underwood to utilize.

Bruce Weber and the Illini back together again!! This sounds like the plot to a Hallmark Christmas Movie.

Football

Let’s be honest, after delivering on Signing Day and luring Jeff Thomas away from Miami, the beard is looking rather majestic.

Come on Santa!! Bring us Bowl Eligibility in 2019!!

Prying away a former five-star TE from Kirby Smart is easier said than done, but if anyone can make it reality, Santa can make it happen.

Dear Santa, please keep the Tampa 2 away from Champaign.

And it’s not always about sports!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

For vintage inspired, high quality, and well-designed University of Illinois apparel, check out Fourth and Kirby, and look for the TCR Collection while you’re at it!