The Illibuck is up for grabs this week, not that anyone cares – or is aware. It’s an irrelevant trophy that means virtually nothing to both Ohio State and Illinois, no matter what those schools players and coaches tell you.

What is on the mind of every member of the Buckeyes is a trophy of a different sort – the crystal football awarded to the national champion. As November came into focus, the sights of a national title in Columbus looked dim and verged on unrealistic. But after Oregon’s loss last Thursday, Ohio State is one Alabama or Florida State slipup away from playing in the Rose Bowl the week after the Rose Bowl.

“The goal of this team is to come back faster and stronger than they went into the bye week,” head coach Urban Meyer said. “I’ve got to make sure we’re not worried about anything like that.”

A majority of the week was spent getting healthy. The rigors of the Big Ten means bumps and bruises come November. Now it’s clear sailing until the Big Ten Championship Game, a likely date with Michigan State.