In 1974, the Illini compiled a 6–4–1 record and finished in fifth place in the Big Ten, their first winning season since 1965. The team's offensive leaders were quarterback Jeff Hollenbach with 1,037 passing yards, running back Chubby Phillips with 772 rushing yards, and wide receiver Joe Smalzer with 525 receiving yards. Hollenbach and linebacker Tom Hicks were selected as the team's most valuable players. In 1975, the Illini compiled a 5–6 record and finished in a three-way tie for third place in the Big Ten Conference. The team's offensive leaders were quarterback Kurt Steger with 1,136 passing yards, running back Lonnie Perrin with 907 rushing yards, and wide receiver Frank Johnson with 349 receiving yards. Offensive tackle Stu Levenick and defensive back Bruce Beaman were selected as the team's most valuable players.