Illinois News: Mike Dudek, Illini receivers battle their way through adversity

"Mikey looks fine running around but the ACL’s a whole different ballgame. There has not been a setback there, but until he’s 100 percent we’re not going to do anything with him."

- Bill Cubit, Pantagraph

Initially believed to be one of the strongest units for the Fighting Illini, the Illinois receiving core has faced more than its fair share of setbacks these past couple months. Along with a torn ACL for freshman All-American Mike Dudek, fellow receiver Justin Hardee broke his foot this offseason as well. This not to include Malik Turner, who after having a hyped offseason has been unable to perform at a high level. Despite senior Geronimo Allison remaining healthy, this Illini team has still dropped 21 passes over the last three games, a very high number.

Once Dudek is able to return, there seems to be more hope for success. Despite being on the mend, head coach Bill Cubit has appeared very tentative to push him any further than he think he can go. It will be interesting to see what happens if and when he is ready to play before the season's close.

Volleyball takes two out of three at Red Lion Invitational

The nationally sixth ranked Illini volleyball team won two and lost one of their matches this past weekend at the Red Lion Invitational in Tempe, Arizona. After handy wins over Texas Southern and UNLV, Illinois dropped a hard-fought match with #10 Arizona State three sets to two. This comes right before the Illini enter the start of Big Ten play this weekend against Maryland. Expect Huff to be packed Friday night!

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