Illini, Tigers prep for Braggin' Rights game

ST. LOUIS — This year's Illinois-Missouri clash has a little something extra, the nation's first matchup of the season with a pair of 10-win schools.

The game at a neutral site in St. Louis on Wednesday could have been even bigger.

Missouri (10-1) is ranked ninth, the lone setback coming in overtime against Georgetown. Illinois (10-2) tumbled nine spots to No. 21 after getting upset by Illinois-Chicago on Saturday.

Coach Bruce Weber said players showed up early for practice Sunday and stayed late, working to distance themselves from the loss while prepping for Missouri's all-court pressure tactics.