The 1899 Illinois Fighting Illini football team was an American football team that represented the University of Illinois during the 1899 college football season. In their fifth season under head coach George Huff, the Illini compiled a 3–5–1 record and finished in a tie for last place in the Western Conference. Center E. C. McLane was the team captain.

The 1898 Illinois Fighting Illini football team was an American football team that represented the University of Illinois during the 1898 Western Conference football season. In their fourth season under head coach George Huff, the Illini compiled a 4–5 record and finished in fourth place in the Western Conference. Fullback Arthur R. Johnston was the team captain.