great news. a part of me was hoping illinois would opt out (just to be able to enjoy a college football slate without it be marred by the inevitable disappointment of our outcome), but it appears as of now that all will play.

for those not following, an interesting wrinkle appears to be that they are going to orchestrate an 8 game schedule, with a 9th game taking place against the corresponding finisher from the other division (i.e. 6th in west will play 6 in east). i kind of like that, because in a year without bowl games, this can kind of simulate that last game/anything goes experience.

credit to Trump and everyone who fought for the players and fans in this process. i'm sure the media will be eager to spin any potential test as a cause for panic, but its nice to see the science and data win out over partisan politics.