In 1976, the Illini compiled a 5–6 record and finished in a four-way tie for third place in the Big Ten Conference. The team's offensive leaders were quarterback Kurt Steger with 1,243 passing yards, running back James Coleman with 687 rushing yards, and wide receiver Eric Rouse with 326 receiving yards. Offensive tackle Jerry Finis and linebacker Scott Studwell were selected as the team's most valuable players. Blackman was fired following the 1976 season, the administration again unhappy with the team's consistent mediocrity.