Monday, On3 released its way-too-early College Football Playoff pairings, wisely including the Illini alongside fellow Big

Just in case the Illinois football offseason hype train couldn't get any wilder, it did Monday when On3's Andy Staples dropped his brand-new way-too-early College Football Playoff with the Illini included.

Illinois football continues its productive recruiting offseason. The Illini landed the highest-ranked prep recruit of the Bret Bielema era over the weekend when four-star defensive back Victor Singleton announced his commitment.

Illinois football fans are well aware of coach Bret Bielema's feistiness and competitive nature on the field and in the forums – whether that's defending his club in front of a press conference throng or pushing back on a social-media slight.

From visits to Dunlap High School to watch top in-state and No. 3 national tight end prospect Mack Sutter star on the basketball court to trips down to Florida to land three of five pledges, including three-star quarterback Michael Clayton, Bielema has done anything but rest thus far this offseason.

Illinois coach Bret Bielema is feeling great. The Illini are coming off their first 10-win season since 2001. A junior day over the weekend had more than a dozen of the top local prospects on campus.