:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67106112/EdtYiEaWoAAUnz4.0.jpeg)
While preparing for whatever the 2020 season will be, Lovie Smith and Co. continue building their 2021 class.
Illinois landed two commits Friday, both of whom announced their decision on Twitter.
Offensive lineman Zachary Barlev was committed to Bowling Green before flipping to the Illini on Friday night.
Respect my decision @CoachKunz59 @BengalFB @EDGYTIM @DeepDishFB @AllenTrieu pic.twitter.com/ZvBn9qUvbq
— Zachary Barlev (@Barlev23) July 24, 2020
The 6-foot-4, 292-pound in-stater also had offers from some Ivy League schools and other FCS programs.
A three-star prospect out of Plainfield, Barlev is only the second in-stater in the 2021 class.
Here’s Barlev’s highlights:
Where Illinois has been doing its work in 2021 comes in Florida, where they picked up Tyler Strain.
100% committed . Thank you @LovieSmith @KeynodoH @ACGonzales7 @DBcoachjackson pic.twitter.com/32SQeFsge5
— Tyler Marion Strain (@D1Tstrain) July 24, 2020
The Florida cornerback isn’t that big right now, only at 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds.
But the Milton Pace high schooler chose the Illini over other FBS programs and is the sixth DB to commit in the class of 2021.
Here’s Strain’s highlights: