In 1927, the Fighting Illini compiled a 7–0–1 record (5–0 against Western Conference opponents) and outscored their opponents by a combined total of 152–24. The team was selected as the 1927 national champion by the Billingsley Report, Dickinson System, Helms Athletic Foundation, National Championship Foundation, and Parke H. Davis. Though the team had no consensus All-Americans and was known for its lack of prominent names, center Robert Reitsch and guard Russ Crane made a handful of first-team selections. Reitsch was also the team captain. Illinois struggled from 1930–1941, posting seven losing seasons and no conference championships. The Illini did finish 7–1 in 1934, however, this proved to be the last season of six or more wins during the Zuppke era. Zuppke retired from Illinois following a 2–6 campaign in 1941, leaving the Illini after compiling a 131–81–12 record.