Extra points: Illinois is 1-3, 0-1 in the Big Ten, but Smith said he's hopeful the Illini's improved play in their loss to Nebraska can carry over to Saturday's home game against Purdue (2-2, 0-1). …. He deflected a question about the demotion of running back Ke'Shawn Vaughn preferring instead to discuss new starter Reggie Corbin and Kendrick Foster. Vaughn, who was projected as a key to the offense this season, carried just once in the second quarter against Nebraska for 1 yard. Corbin (72 yards on nine carries) and Foster (46 yards on seven carries) drew praise from Smith. "Very pleased with those two running backs," he said. .. Defensive end Carroll Phillips is improving and his injury is not long term, Smith said, declining to elaborate on the injury that caused him to leave the game against Nebraska.