In 1968, the Illini compiled a 1–9 record and finished in a tie for eighth place in the Big Ten Conference. The team's offensive leaders were quarterback Bob Naponic with 813 passing yards, running back Rich Johnson with 973 rushing yards, and wide receiver Doug Dieken with 223 receiving yards. Fullback Rich Johnson was selected as the team's most valuable player. In 1969, the Illini compiled a 0–10 record and finished in last place in the Big Ten Conference. The team's offensive leaders were quarterback Steve Livas with 705 passing yards, running back Dave Jackson with 465 rushing yards, and wide receiver Doug Dieken with 486 receiving yards. Dieken was selected as the team's most valuable player. Guard Doug Redmann was selected by the Newspaper Enterprise Association as a second-team player on the 1969 College Football All-America Team.