By Michael SchlossbergThe Daily Northwestern

At first glance, this year’s Illinois football team might appear to be very similar to last year’s.

Both teams were 2-9 through their first 11 games of the season. Both teams were in last place in the Big Ten. Last year’s team ended its season on a nine-game losing streak, while this year’s team enters its final game having lost nine of its last 10.

But after a closer look, this year’s Illinois team is a far cry from the 2005 version.

Last year, Illinois was one of the most ridiculed team in the conference – and one of in the nation. The team lost its nine games by an average of 30.2 points. In its lowest moment, Illinois gave up 56 points in the first half to Penn State.

“I told my team after that game that we’ve hit rock bottom,” Illinois coach Ron Zook said. “It can’t get any worse than that.”

This year, however, the Fighting Illini have forced their opponents to take them seriously.

They built an 18-point lead against Wisconsin, currently 10-1 and ranked ninth in the BCS. Illinois was the only team to come within 17 points of No. 1 Ohio State and even had a chance to tie the game in their final possession before losing 17-10.

By contrast, the Buckeyes beat Illinois 40-2 last season.

The Illini also were in position to beat Penn State in Beaver Stadium before giving up nine points in the final two minutes. And the Nittany Lions only scored three points in the first half –