The 1971 Illinois Fighting Illini football team was an American football team that represented the University of Illinois as a member of the Big Ten Conference during the 1971 Big Ten season. In their first year under head coach Bob Blackman, the Illini compiled a 5âÂÂ6 record (5âÂÂ3 in conference games), finished in a three-way tie for third place in the Big Ten, and were outcored by a total of 238 to 163.
The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Mike Wells (1,007 passing yards, 46.9%), running back John Wilson (543 rushing yards, 4.7 yards per carry), and wide receiver Garvin Roberson (28 receptions for 372 yards). Punter/halfback Terry Masar was selected as the team's most valuable player. Defensive end Tab Bennett was selected as a first-team player on the 1971 All-Big Ten Conference football team.
The team played its home games at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois.