By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – Illinois Wesleyan football coach Norm Eash said it’s not an off week, it’s a bye week.

The Titans have an extra week to prepare for their final regular season game against Millikin. Eash said he’s giving the guys a few days off but they are already focused on next week.

“We have to prepare for Millikin and use the time wisely, and we are,” Eash said. “We are cutting back on some of the things we do, but not much.”

Center Mike Mulcrone said he’ll enjoy a few days off with family, but they will take advantage of the extra prep time.

“Especially the way we are attacking it this year, I feel like we are going to get them down pat, figure out what they are doing,” Mulcrone said. “That will enable us to play harder, play faster, think less and just play ball.”

At 6-1 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin, the Titans (8-1 overall) are assured of at least a share of the league title with a win against the Big Blue, who are 5-2 in the league and 7-2 overall.

Linebacker Jordan Hassan said he isn’t ready for his senior season to end.

“It’s scaring the crap out of me honestly,” Hassan said. “This is the first time I’ve actually come to terms with the fact that I’m possibly playing the last few games of my career.”

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.