Illinois coach Tim Beckman says he may make changes to improve his team's short-yardage blocking.

The Illini (2-8, 0-6 Big Ten) came up short on two key third & 1 plays in their 17-3 loss to Minnesota on Saturday.

Beckman complained about his team's inability to get a yard. He said Monday he might make changes on the line or in the backfield.

Illinois' offense has been among the Big Ten's worst. The Illini have scored just under 17 points a game. And in six conference losses they've been even weaker at just under 11.

But Beckman stands by his quarterback. The coach says Nathan Scheelhaase (SHEEL'-hows) has done well with a new offense while battling injuries.

The Illini will try to end a 7-game losing streak Saturday at Purdue (4-6, 1-5).