The Champaign Room - Illinois Football 2019 Position PreviewsA Fighting Illini community since 2012https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48193/tcr-fave.png2019-08-24T09:41:06-05:00http://www.thechampaignroom.com/rss/stream/204542952019-08-24T09:41:06-05:002019-08-24T09:41:06-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Quarterbacks
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<p>Few positions on the Illini roster have been subject to as much scrutiny this offseason.</p> <p id="390bEp">Earlier this week, the <a href="https://www.thechampaignroom.com/">Illinois Fighting Illini</a> football team named <span>Brandon Peters</span> to be the starting quarterback against Akron on Aug. 31. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">QB1 ➡️ Brandon Peters<a href="https://twitter.com/LovieSmith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LovieSmith</a> has officially announced the Game 1 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Illini?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Illini</a> starting QB.<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/4OiYrJ4j3F">https://t.co/4OiYrJ4j3F</a> <a href="https://t.co/kOmHXApw3c">pic.twitter.com/kOmHXApw3c</a></p>— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniFootball/status/1163915684629360640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2019</a>
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<p id="gwurS6"><span>Peters</span> wasn’t flawless in camp by any means, and has relatively little experience in <span>Rod Smith</span>’s offense, but his playing time in game situations at Michigan should serve him well at least during the non-conference play. If he shows enough ability to run the ball and keep opposing defenses honest, while limiting turnovers and developing chemistry with <span>Ricky Smalling</span>, <span>Trevon Sidney</span>, and others, then he should be able to hold down the job for the foreseeable future.</p>
<p id="Uat1hJ">While at Michigan, he completed 57 passes on 108 attempts (52.8%) in 2017 during the 6 games in which he played, while he also has a career -36 rushing yards at Michigan. For comparison, <span>Wes Lunt</span> had an Illini career completion percentage of 58% and <span>Nathan Scheelhaase</span> had a career 63% completion percentage. Although Peters has substantially more live snaps than anyone else on the Illinois roster, it remains to be seen whether or not he can consistently play at a Big Ten level, especially in Rod Smith’s run-first offense.</p>
<p id="iulgWo">Challenging Peters from day one has been redshirt freshman Matthew Robinson, Rod Smith’s first hand-selected recruit. Robinson saw limited action last season against Penn State (when both <span>AJ Bush</span> and MJ Rivers went down with injury) and again against Purdue. Taking advantage of the new NCAA rules, Robsinson was able to redshirt last season and return with four additional years of eligibility. He received first string snaps in the spring ahead of MJ Rivers, along with second string snaps in the summer behind Peters. Robinson is a true duel threat quarterback, but his inability to lock down the job this offseason prompts questions about his ability to start for extended periods during the 2019 season.</p>
<p id="ddzlib">True freshman <span>Isaiah Williams</span> was a prize recruit in the class of 2019 and figures to see significant playing time in the upcoming season simply because his speed is impossible to keep on the bench. Expect Rod Smith to use <span>Williams</span> in specific situations and possibly for entire drives to keep opposing defenses off-balance. Williams’ impressive ability to evade tackles drastically contrasts with Peters’ style of play, and switching between the two playcallers mid-game could cause headaches for defensive coordinators.</p>
<p id="ZKNX5M">Finally, redshirt freshman <span>Coran Taylor</span> has also challenged for playing time this year, but has not made substantial progress up the depth chart to this point. He saw no playing time last season, but possesses considerable athletic potential.</p>
<p id="kkkilN">It’s anybody’s guess how the quarterback depth chart will look even a few games into the upcoming season. We should expect significant volatility from week to week unless Peters can hold off Robinson and <span>Williams</span> and emerge as a reliable option. I see that as unlikely at this point, and would not be surprised if all three quarterbacks end up starting at least one game as Lovie Smith evaluates each quarterback’s grades from prior games, practice performance, and injury status on a week-to-week basis to determine starters.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/24/20830675/2019-football-position-preview-quarterbacks-illinois-fighting-illini-football-brandon-petersMatt Rejc2019-08-22T08:05:00-05:002019-08-22T08:05:00-05:002019 Illinois Football Position Preview: Running Backs
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<p>The deepest, most talented group on the team.</p> <p id="inye5w">This group will be the backbone of the 2019 Illini football team.</p>
<p id="DBZpOn">It's the most talented, ready position on the team bar none.</p>
<p id="2tgooi">That should be obvious the moment you watch <span>Reggie Corbin</span> juke someone out of his shoes. Or <span>Mike Epstein</span> toasting a linebacker for a huge chunk gain. RaVon Bonner bludgeons their beak. <span>Jakari Norwood</span>. <span>Kenyon Sims</span>. Dre Brown. The talent level is truly extraordinary. Top-3 Big Ten good.</p>
<p id="tDMN8F">A lot will be predicated on the offensive line play (which should be great, as long as it stays healthy), but this stable of backs should put fear into the hearts of many defensive coordinators.</p>
<h2 id="YnWbXN"><strong>Starters: Reggie Corbin, Mike Epstein</strong></h2>
<p id="US1Jgd">These two are conceivably indistinguishable from one another. Reggie has the elusiveness and vision. Epstein has speed, vision, elite cutting ability. Together they form a dynamic duo for Illinois.</p>
<p id="XJheev">The biggest issue: health. Epstein has yet to play a full season, or even half of one. Corbin hasn't had a serious injury yet, but you can never be too concerned as an Illini fan. </p>
<p id="Upqi4k">Fortunately, the drop off after these two is not a chasm. There's depth and talent to spare. It would be nice to see the potential of these two shine through and lead Illinois to bowl eligibility.</p>
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<strong>The reserves: RaVon Bonner, Jakari Norwood, Kenyon Sims, </strong><span><strong>Dre Brown</strong></span>
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<p id="qGazAn">These backs are reserves for a reason. However, they each have a select skillset that could truly benefit Illinois if Corbin/Epstein go down.</p>
<p id="snFkse">Bonner has slimmed down a bit from his freshman year, but he's still the team's battering ram. He runs hard, hits the hole, and doesn't mess around. He could potentially lead the Illini in rushing touchdowns. He's definitely in line as a short yardage back.</p>
<p id="TeNx3C">Jakari Norwood has that straight line speed you can't teach. Can easily get to the second level with a quick shimmy. He also has tremendous hands. He could even work in the slot some. A true burner.</p>
<p id="mZQKWJ">Kenyon Sims has taken a nice sophomore leap and looks like a more complete back. Seeing things better. Stronger and faster. He a could be a starter somewhere, yet he's sixth on the depth chart here. That's remarkable depth.</p>
<p id="PeiekF">Dre Brown is the guy people are rooting for. Constantly injured his first two seasons, Brown has finally gotten healthy for 2018-2019. His speed and cutting ability are elite for a fifth year senior. He'll make plays when given an opportunity.</p>
<p id="C5n4Tc">The running back room will get even more crowded with <span>Chase Brown</span> and <span>Reggie Love</span> next year. Oh and I almost forgot <span>Nick Fedanzo</span>, who will likely redshirt and could be another weapon int the holster.</p>
<p id="rBmTPB">This is a great situation to be in. Let's just hope it leads to some wins and progress this season. For your indulgence...</p>
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https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/22/20827747/fighting-illini-2019-illinois-football-position-preview-running-backs-reggie-corbin-mike-epsteinKyle Huisinga2019-08-19T08:05:00-05:002019-08-19T08:05:00-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Wide Receivers
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<p>Questions still abound, but this position group has significantly improved over the offseason.</p> <p id="PHPwWW">The receiving corps gave fans a mix of promise for the future and plenty of frustration during the 2018 season. Injuries to key players impacted the receivers early on last season, as the Illini lost Appalachian State graduate transfer Shaedon Meadors before the season started and promising freshman <span>Edwin Carter</span> after a devastating injury in the Western Illinois game. </p>
<p id="uEe9fy">On-field performance issues were also apparent last year, as <span>Ricky Smalling</span> regressed from 510 yards on 31 receptions in 2017 to 406 yards on 33 receptions in 2018. Dropped passes were also a major factor that limited the group’s potential last season. Even though <span>AJ Bush</span> was not a pass-first quarterback, many of his receivers repeatedly dropped even well-placed balls, and in turn, often stalled offensive momentum that the ground game established behind <span>Reggie Corbin</span> and others.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">So crack out that ball, Illinois <a href="https://t.co/G8qGi4o3aW">pic.twitter.com/G8qGi4o3aW</a></p>— IllinoisLoyalty (@IllinoisLoyalty) <a href="https://twitter.com/IllinoisLoyalty/status/1066464989744111616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p id="JzkuHI"><span>Rod Smith</span> certainly took notice of these limitations as well and made roster moves to inject additional experience and talent to the position group. Notably, this involved the additions of immediately-eligible <a href="https://www.conquestchronicles.com/">USC Trojans</a> transfers <span>Trevon Sidney</span> and Josh Imatorbhebhe. Both of the former four-star recruits saw limited playing time at USC, but jumped on an opportunity in Champaign as they both figure to play major roles in Rod Smith’s offense. Sidney will play in the slot receiver position, and will likely be heavily targeted. Imatorbhebhe is one of the larger receivers at 6-foot-2, 215 pounds and will likely be used primarily as a perimeter blocker and short-yardage threat.</p>
<p id="zgPtVM">Freshman Kyron Cumby was a great recruiting win during this past offseason, as Andrew Hayes-Stoker held off several other P5 schools to obtain the services of this shifty Texas track star. Cumby will likely play behind Trevon Sidney at the slot receiver position, and he could be in line to take the position over when the latter moves on after the 2020 season. Also new this season is true freshman <span>Casey Washington</span>, who has been turning some heads at camp with his possession abilities.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">40 minutes into the first practice and I’m probably ready to admit I was wrong about Casey Washington. When a receiver absolutely snatches the ball out of the air I’m all .</p>— Robert (@ALionEye) <a href="https://twitter.com/ALionEye/status/1157316218287730689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a>
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<p id="cJkpVT"><span>Dalevon Campbell</span> was a late addition to the 2019 class, and he should provide critical depth as he learns Rod Smith’s scheme.</p>
<p id="tXovAt">These newcomers will supplement the returning players, headlined by junior Ricky Smalling, who has accumulated 916 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns during his Illini career. Smalling figures to be a likely starter yet again as he looks to bounce back in 2019. </p>
<p id="hjYLSl">Senior Trenard Davis was one of the most dependable receivers last season, grabbing 30 receptions for 278 yards. Although his emergency quarterback skills likely won’t be as necessary as they were in the past, he still has the ability to throw on trick plays. One such play last season earned him his first and only career passing touchdown against Penn State.</p>
<p id="N5ox4V">Junior Dominic Stampley emerged in 2018 with 311 receiving yards, which includes a massive game against Maryland in which he caught 4 passes for 153 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Champaign native looks to build on that performance during the upcoming season.</p>
<p id="SjEgjF">Senior Caleb Reams was moved to wide receiver from tight end last season, but his impact was limited to 5 receptions in 2018. His larger frame should help him to secure passes on short routes like the one below.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Caleb Reams <a href="https://t.co/c7kjbrVjwj">pic.twitter.com/c7kjbrVjwj</a></p>— IllinoisLoyalty (@IllinoisLoyalty) <a href="https://twitter.com/IllinoisLoyalty/status/1066471774471274498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p id="gwrVtV">Outside of these known players, it’s tough to gauge exactly who else will be getting significant looks at the receiver position. The athletic sophomore <span>Carlos Sandy</span> returned punts and kickoffs last season, and may continue those duties in 2019 while he also likely increases his involvement at the receiver position. Edwin Carter appears to be back to 100 percent following his severe injury last season, and should compete for playing time as well. Walk-ons <span>Donny Navarro</span> and <span>Jordan Holmes</span> have also shown flashes of ability, and figure to make serious pushes for scholarships in 2019.</p>
<p id="7wozHB">All players at this position group must improve their possession skills in 2019 if the team is going to move forward. Too many catchable passes were dropped last year in key situations. Hopefully added experience with Rod Smith’s systems will help the returning players to think less about their route or responsibility, and play looser, more relaxed football.</p>
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https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/19/20811567/2019-football-position-preview-wide-receivers-trevon-sidney-illinois-fighting-illini-footballMatt Rejc2019-08-15T09:05:00-05:002019-08-15T09:05:00-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Tight Ends
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<p>Not having Luke Ford stinks, but there's upside with remaining group</p> <p id="tVlPgy">Tight end has never been a marquee position for the Illini.</p>
<p id="O0fOMB">The closest to a breakout the position has had was the combination of <span>Jon Davis</span>/Matt LaCosse. Fred Wakefield? Our current Athletic Director?</p>
<p id="Us9HSq">It just hasn't been prioritized by previous coaching staffs. That seems to have changed over the course of the last year. Will it lead to results? That's yet to be determined, but there is some legitimate upside with Cory Patterson's group.</p>
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<strong>Future of TE: </strong><span><strong>Luke Ford</strong></span>
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<p id="S8rqkx">It's a shame the NCAA didn't see fit to grant Ford his eligibility. Did he have a case by the law of NCAA parameters? Not particularly. Did he have a better case than several other players across the country who were granted immediate eligibility? Absolutely. </p>
<p id="tHVDhr">Illinois could really use his skillset this season. Based on his high school film, he would have been a nightmare of a red zone matchup at least. He's big, strong, can gain separation from linebackers, he's got good hands, and he’s a willing blocker. He'll be that tight end that finally breaks the streak of relative ineffectiveness at tight end, in my opinion. </p>
<p id="nnCzC1"><span>Lou Dorsey</span> sure would have been nice to have too, but enough lamentations, let's get to the players who will actually suit up for 2019.</p>
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<strong>Current starter: </strong><span><strong>Daniel Barker</strong></span>
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<p id="7antQF">Barker will take some of the sting out of the what-ifs this season. He has really taken a step in the right direction in the off-season. He looks like a more complete tight end. He’ll be a force both in the short to intermediate passing game, and the running game as a blocker.</p>
<p id="C5s63e">If Brandon Peters is the starter week one, you'd have to love Barker's chances as a lead target.</p>
<p id="JaTLGa">Watching his time at Michigan, you could see he's really good at utilizing the tight ends. <span>Sean McKeon</span> and <span>Zach Gentry</span> were effective as safety valves for Peters. Plays such as:</p>
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<p id="mbQl0d">Barker will be used in a similar fashion. Tight end screens, dig routes, anything across the middle will be fair game. He looks to be one of the most improved sophomores so far through training camp, so expect more from the rarely used position.</p>
<p id="8AiRFQ"><strong>The upside play: </strong><span><strong>Justice Williams</strong></span></p>
<p id="e2Wqtu">The fifth-year senior has been moved around a lot. He started as a linebacker, then was moved to wide receiver last season. He had a lot of trouble separating from cornerbacks and made a minimal impact. However, there is some upside with the move to tight end.</p>
<p id="SYOF4p">He won't be matched up against the fastest players on the defense anymore. That may allow him to break free and create separation against nickel corners and linebackers.</p>
<p id="DLnlo3">Jeremy Werner of 247 Sports mentioned several times at last season's training camp that <span>Williams</span> had some outstanding catches and showed off some impressive hands. If that can translate to tight end, look out. Along with Barker, Williams could be a force in the passing game for the Illini.</p>
<p id="lr7FF5">The rest of the depth consists of either blockers or receivers, but none of them will be relied on as much as the two previously mentioned. <span>Griffin Palmer</span> looks the part, but hasn't factored into the equation. <span>Bryce Barnes</span> and <span>Alex Pihlstrom</span> are nice walk-on players who have some potential. Barnes, specifically is a workout warrior.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">And here it is! The lift of the week! Watch True freshman, <a href="https://twitter.com/BarnesBryce35?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarnesBryce35</a> big clean to make the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/3bluecrew?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#3bluecrew</a> ! Future is looking strong! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GYMR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GYMR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/4bluecrewgoal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#4bluecrewgoal</a> no limits! <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IlliniFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniCPatt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IlliniCPatt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StrengthIllini?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StrengthIllini</a> let’s go! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/seperationsummer?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#seperationsummer</a> Whos next?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BR97?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BR97</a> <a href="https://t.co/p4QXuCdcwn">pic.twitter.com/p4QXuCdcwn</a></p>— Lou Hernandez (@Loustrength) <a href="https://twitter.com/Loustrength/status/1142204330268925957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="7utvF2">Needless to say, tight end looks to be in good hands for the next couple of years. Expect production to at least double from last year anyways.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/15/20806283/illinois-fight-illini-2019-football-position-preview-tight-ends-daniel-barker-cory-pattersonKyle Huisinga2019-08-08T08:05:00-05:002019-08-08T08:05:00-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Offensive Line
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<p>Not too shabby. </p> <p id="qcsvZS">There’s no other position group on the field more important than the offensive line. It is the base from which every play is starts. Give me a great offensive line and I’ll show you a team that can do most anything with the ball, by land or air. </p>
<p id="ir1Imb">And I’m proud to able to tell you that Illinois has earned itself a very solid O-line for the coming 2019 season. (And beyond.) The basics are simple. The Fighting Illini return four starters from last year — all of whom started all 12 games — and the one replacement is likely going to be a transfer from Alabama. To say the absolute minimum about this preseason outlook, that’s about exactly what you want to hear from one of these articles. This is a positional unit that’s set up to succeed.</p>
<p id="5irao6">Here is the projected line in bullet list form:</p>
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<li id="sjJyvl">LT - Vederian Lowe, JR - 6-6, 320</li>
<li id="8PQHH1">LG - Kendrick Green, Redshirt SO - 6-4, 310</li>
<li id="swnw5Z">C - Doug Kramer, Redshirt JR - 6-2, 300</li>
<li id="JStAfh">RG - Richie Petitbon, SR Transfer - 6-4, 305</li>
<li id="Z85Bhr">RT - Alex Palczewski, JR - 6-6, 300 (3.85)</li>
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<p id="zx2kSt">And lo, four upperclassmen upon the line. Ages have passed in Champaign, listless and wanting, with few grown men to portend the way. But, I’m getting rather exaggerated. Though who can really blame me? This kind of line is exactly the type of thing that I’ve wanted for years. The offensive lineman is the hardest position to recruit in all of college football. That’s mostly due to the size of the player — no matter what a coach screams and yells during practice, it can’t make a player have longer arms or a lower natural center of gravity. The only thing that makes a player grow is time. And upperclassmen are the ultimate answer when it comes to offensive linemen. </p>
<p id="1lDtAc">That and a complete understanding of the scheme and how to communicate with fellow linemen. And with a new offensive line coach, that experience is going to go a long way. Bob McClain comes in to replace Luke Butkus (who’s off to coach for the Green Bay Packers). McClain’s pushing this year’s players to hone in on footwork and technique. Butkus focused a lot on the mentality of playing the game. With an education that now spans multiple years, the Illini have four solid, road-worn starters who have been through two different schools of thought. Provided that the switch between line coaches does not cause theologies to conflict, those that work hard will have extra knowledge to bring to the field on Saturdays. Another reason why having upperclassmen is really going to pay off.</p>
<p id="qBK53o">It’s remarkable, really. There’s this feeling over the past few years that Lovie Smith had to really work to pay off the toll that was caused by the previous coach-switching, administration-conversion, poor-recruiting of years past. The Illini under Smith have a winning percentage of .250. We all are awaiting this team to get to the point where it’s at least bowl eligible, which we all kind of hopelessly hope for by looking at the projected future rosters.</p>
<p id="YcNXxz">But out of nowhere, this offensive line has matured into something formidable that we get to watch this year. They created the holes for the second-best rushing attack in the Big Ten last year. Now imagine they do that again, improve on their sack rates even by a percent or two, and you have one outstanding group to behold. The Illini have two junior tackles that are clearly making a notable difference in early practice sessions, a very promising left guard in Kendrick Green (who’s possibly here for three more season), and the center position covered by Doug Kramer, who seems to have won the confidence and respect of everyone in the program. I submit that this starting group of five is the best position group on the roster. And we can fight about that if you want, whatever. If they all stay healthy, you’ll look like a sucker. If one or two get injured, I’ll just— well, there’s my scapegoat.</p>
<p id="E5ciwf">But a good O-line preview does take into account the depth of group and I can say that this is also a good thing, though I’m not as high on them as I am with the starting five. </p>
<p id="QjFvOY">We’ll start with what happens behind right guard Richie Petitbon. Although he is the projected starter, and appears to be getting the starting team reps in practice, it’s not a forgone conclusion that it’s his by rights. It’s important to note that Petitbon never started at Alabama, but he did play in games and he received world-class coaching. </p>
<p id="Lg2xym">He’s competing against quite a few other guys. Guards Kievan Myers and Jordyn Slaughter are probably the closest to steal the role, but so is redshirt junior center Kurt Gavin. And that’s not mentioning Verdis Brown, a former 4-start defensive tackle who converted to the offensive side this offseason. </p>
<p id="jKYztY">For the backups at tackle, there’s redshirt junior Jake Cerny and redshirt freshman Julian Pearl. I’m just going to admit that it’s hard to talk about all these backup linemen. Every one of them has a real, strong chance of turning into a quality starter someday down the road. So it’s hard to just be like, “eh, these guys aren’t doing much this year.” They’re growing. They’re learning. When Lowe, Green, Kramer, and Palczewski were backups, almost all the same stuff was being pumped through the internet. They’re good, just not good enough to start right now over these upperclassmen. </p>
<p id="TtR8dQ">This team has something good here. I know most of you don’t watch the O-line when you watch football (which makes me doubt if you’ll even read these 1,000 words) but do not miss this. There’s a chance that these four returning lineman are going to be returning next year and then they’ll be all hyped up across the internet. I’m telling you now to keep your eyes peeled. Because if they’re not great now, they will be by the end of the season. It’s a thing of beauty that I’ve been waiting for since forever. </p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/8/20751853/2019-football-position-preview-offensive-line-illinois-fighting-illini-ncaa-big-ten-lovie-smithAaron Rench2019-08-01T09:49:15-05:002019-08-01T09:49:15-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Defensive Backs
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<figcaption>Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>A plethora of talented and experienced defenders will star in Illinois’ 2019 secondary.</p> <p id="PGVvyN">Last season, the defense as a whole struggled to keep games close especially toward the end of the season. The loss of <span>Bennett Williams</span> at the safety position forced other young players into starting roles before they were truly ready. But now, many of those same defenders return with considerably more experience, along with an offseason of strength and conditioning, and they’re poised to make significant gains in 2019.</p>
<p id="lzot97">The only senior in the group with significant playing time is safety <span>Stanley Green</span>, who returns for his final year as an Illini. Green has an incredible knack for forcing fumbles, as he’s already forced seven fumbles over his career, which is good for the 4th most in program history. As a hard-hitting safety, Green needs to avoid targeting penalties and consistently take better angles, but he has all of the tools to put everything together in his last year.</p>
<p id="XiJUGq">Lovie’s first class of now-junior defensive banks was strong, and includes <span>Tony Adams</span>, <span>James Knight</span>, <span>Nick Walker</span>, and <span>Nate Hobbs</span>. <span>Adams</span> has shown considerable talent since his debut in 2017, but injuries have unfortunately limited his playing time. James Knight has bounced around across several positions, but has established himself as a reliable defender wherever he is on the field. <span>Walker</span> transferred to Illinois from Cisco College (TX) last season and saw time primarily on special teams. </p>
<p id="qTkw6l">Nate Hobbs has been one of the gems of the junior class. Hobbs is a fantastic athlete and one of Lovie’s best recruiting finds, as he’s accumulated 70 tackles and 5.0 TFLs over his two seasons, while also racking up over 250 yards on punt and kickoff returns. Hobbs will anchor the secondary at the corner position in 2019. </p>
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<p id="Gxb0F1">The 2018 recruiting class was also rich with talented young defensive backs, many of whom saw significant playing time last season, including sophomores Jartavious Martin, <span>Dylan Wyatt</span>, <span>Kerby Joseph</span>, and <span>Sydney Brown</span>. <span>Delano Ware</span> also saw minutes in the secondary last season, but he has been moved to linebacker for this season.</p>
<p id="u0WrhA">Since his breakout as a budding shutdown corner as a freshman last season, Quan Martin has established himself as a key piece to the secondary alongside Nate Hobbs. Martin finished last year with 42 tackles and three interceptions, which was second most on the team behind only Del’Shawn Phillips. Wyatt and Joseph are both quality athletes who provided depth last season, but stand a solid chance of earning more playing time in 2019. Sydney Brown was one of the most underrated defensive backs last season, as he ranked fifth on the team for total tackles with 55 at both the safety and nickel positions. Brown looks to float between both positions again this season, although I wouldn’t be shocked if he tries out linebacker as well since he has a similar build to Delano Ware.</p>
<p id="Q7A1X1">The secondary will also play host to a trio of newcomers who will immediately compete for playing time: Marquez Beason, Joseph Thompson, and recently committed Devon Witherspoon. Beason was a nationally pursued four-star recruit out of high school last year, who chose to play for Lovie Smith over offers from a host of high-major programs including USC, Georgia, Florida State, and others. Given the substantial impact that freshman made in the defensive backfield last season, it seems reasonable to believe that Beason will play a major role in the secondary this season. Thompson was an important in-state recruit from the powerhouse Chicago Phillips program, and he figures to challenge for playing time at cornerback or on special teams in 2019. Witherspoon is likely going to either play a role on special teams or redshirt this season, but his <a href="https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/7/29/8948095/illinois-fighting-illini-football-devon-witherspoon-2019-class">late addition just a few days ago</a> was an important one for Lovie and Co. to build depth.</p>
<p id="8N7T5B">The Illini can also count on a number of talented walk-ons in the secondary, such as <span>Christian Bobak</span>, <span>Michael Marchese</span>, and Nolan Bernat. The added experience and talent will almost certainly result in improvement for this young secondary, and I see a big season ahead for the entire unit.</p>
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https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/8/1/20749625/2019-football-position-preview-defensive-backs-illinois-fighting-illini-football-nate-hobbsMatt Rejc2019-07-26T08:05:00-05:002019-07-26T08:05:00-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Linebackers
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<figcaption>Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>New faces inject depth, talent into linebacking corps.</p> <p id="k3Nqpc">This is a position that has dramatically changed in two years.</p>
<p id="WNqR7T"><span>Tre Watson</span> was a quality Big Ten linebacker (proved by his play last year with Maryland). After that, the linebackers were a hodgepodge of up and down play. <span>Hardy Nickerson</span> Jr., Del’Shawn Phillips, they had some nice moments for Illinois. It just wasn't enough. </p>
<p id="00Bk5E">Linebackers look poised for a breakout in 2019. There's talent, there's experience, there's depth. You can finally feel good about that fourth or fifth guy to come in. Recruiting and transfers have bolstered linebackers into a strong point for the Illini.</p>
<p id="k2B9XU">The starters look like Big Ten linebackers. It starts in the middle with <span>Dele Harding</span>.</p>
<p id="T1ReR1">Harding has paid his dues, sat behind some quality in the middle, but for all intents and purposes, he looks to be the breakout player few people are talking about.</p>
<p id="6AxFwV">He looked to be the leader of the defense in spring. He's gotten faster, and he looks to be one of the better blitzing 'backers on the roster. He'll be counted on a lot this year to stem the tide against some tough running teams on the schedule.</p>
<p id="iqxhkp">There's a reason he had better offers in high school. There's a reason he chose Illinois. This year, he's on a mission to prove why.</p>
<p id="PSyvGD">At outside, there's a familiar face, and some potential new ones.</p>
<p id="3REuQa"><span>Jake Hansen</span> lost his 2017 to an ACL tear. His debut in 2018 was auspicious. He led the team in tackles and tackles for loss against Kent State. His sideline-to-sideline speed was on full display. He looked as good as the coaching staff had advertised for the last couple of years.</p>
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<p id="JerVWW">Then, he hit somewhat of a wall. Remember, this was his first full season as a starter, so hiccups were inevitable. Still, he struggled in Big Ten competition.</p>
<p id="etkOdk">Going into year two as a starter, expectations are ramped up for the redshirt senior and rightfully so. He showed flashes throughout the season, now he'll be asked to be another leader of the defense for 2019. </p>
<p id="Q3HGOM">On the opposite side, there is some intrigue as to who will man that strong side. </p>
<p id="2aZiW0">Converted from safety, <span>Delano Ware</span> played some quality football for the Illini last year. Especially for a freshman from California, Ware acclimated rather well. Bulking up a bit in the off-season, the coaching staff sees him as a linebacker in this scheme. He certainly looked the part in spring. He has potential as a run-stuffing outside option going forward. Hopefully, that safety speed will transfer as well. It's a clever gamble for the coaching staff, and adds some depth to the position.</p>
<p id="MeBQY0">Competing with Ware is the uber athletic transfer from Washington, Milo Eifler. Finally eligible to play, Eifler has been itching to get on the field. He could easily end up as the best coverage linebacker in the system. He plays fast. I think most fans will be interested to see exactly what he brings to the table this season, because he is as talented an athlete as anyone on the field.</p>
<p id="L8PPKY">For depth, there are some gifted options as well. <span>Khalan Tolson</span> from Florida has speed to burn. Incoming freshmen Shammond Cooper and Tarique Barnes look like great finds in this incoming class, they just need to bulk up. </p>
<p id="fZLFFV">Things are definitely on an uptick at the linebacker spots moving forward. It'll be up to Miles Smith and his father to maximize the talent infusion that's coalesced for 2019. </p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/7/26/8929613/fighting-illini-football-2019-football-position-preview-linebackers-jake-hansen-dele-hardingKyle Huisinga2019-07-18T09:05:00-05:002019-07-18T09:05:00-05:002019 Football Position Preview: Defensive Line
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<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 13 Purdue at Illinois" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eMgf7Tsx9piqLYGMrSMU63UcvBM=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64756665/1052191732.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The defensive line took a massive hit this off-season, but how will the players respond?</p> <p id="dhN2U4">News of <span>Bobby Roundtree</span>’s tragic injury was devastating to everyone associated with Illinois Football, especially his teammates and coaches. I commend Lovie Smith for the compassion he showed during Roundtree’s stay in the hospital. Football takes a distant backseat to Bobby’s health, and we all wish him the best in his future endeavors.</p>
<p id="vW1PJJ">Defensive line coach <span>Austin Clark</span> will rely heavily on Roundtree’s classmates from the 2017 recruiting class during this upcoming season, most notably <span>Owen Carney Jr.</span>, <span>Isaiah Gay</span>, <span>Jamal Woods</span>, and <span>Lere Oladipo</span>. The position group is also one of the few to have a considerable number of experienced seniors who are ready to play major roles, including <span>Jamal Milan</span>, <span>Kenyon Jackson</span>, and <span>Tymir Oliver</span>.</p>
<p id="uwjoA6">Owen Carney played in all games last season and started in eight, racking up 21 tackles and 2.5 sacks in the process. The 2019 season could easily be a breakout for the former star recruit, who chose Illinois over offers from Miami, Florida State, and a litany of SEC schools and other football powerhouses.</p>
<p id="yaT5iD">Isaiah Gay has primarily been used as a pass rusher during his first two seasons with the Illini, but now with several years on a college strength and conditioning regimen, he could be poised to take on more of an every-down defensive end role. Gay had identical stat lines of 20 tackles and one sack in both 2018 and 2017.</p>
<p id="G7nzow">Jamal Woods out of Hueytown, Alabama was an outstanding find by Lovie Smith’s staff, and his production has paid dividends throughout his tenure at Illinois. Though only appearing in four games last season, Woods accumulated 4.0 TFLs from the DT position, on top of the 3.5 that he racked up in 2017. Jamal Woods could be another budding star on the interior of the defensive line for Illinois.</p>
<p id="M3XRln">Lere Oladipo was one of the few players from Lovie Smith’s first class to redshirt in 2017, which was more a testament to the depth of the defensive line position than any deficiency on Oladipo’s part. Oladipo was another highly prized recruit who courted offers from Big Ten powers like Penn State and Michigan State. Depending on his performance in camp, Oladipo could establish himself as a fixture behind some of the more experienced players on the interior of the defensive line.</p>
<p id="bRGWyA">Speaking of those experienced players, few Illini bring as much in-game experience to the table as fifth-year senior Jamal Milan. Though hampered by injuries throughout his career, Milan brings a presence to the defensive line that noticeably impacts the game when he’s on the field. Phil Steele recognized his ability by placing him on the All-Big Ten Fourth Team for the defensive line. Milan’s athleticism was on full display during the way-too-close 2017 matchup with Ball State, when he blocked the potential game-tying field goal with five seconds left.</p>
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<p id="ZncYt7">With 19 starts under his belt over his career, Milan will certainly anchor the Illinois defensive line this season as long as he can stay healthy.</p>
<p id="AfBiYH">Tymir Oliver has been something of an unsung hero since his debut in 2016. Oliver has also struggled with injuries throughout his career, but he’s compiled 63 total tackles and four sacks over essentially two seasons of play. Kenyon Jackson finds himself in a similar situation, having been a fairly consistent presence on the defensive line over the past three seasons while collecting 58 total tackles and two sacks.</p>
<p id="wDUz41">This position will likely be dominated by older players, but many of the younger players will play vital supporting roles. Chief among them is the talented sophomore DT <span>Calvin Avery</span>, who would likely play behind Milan, Jackson, Woods, and Oliver in a perfect world. But considering the injury histories of the older players ahead of him, <span>Austin Clark</span> will no doubt rely heavily upon Avery this season, and he could easily experience a breakout as a sophomore. <span>Ezekiel Holmes</span> is another class of 2018 player who could have an impact this season after redshirting last season.</p>
<p id="96SMiD">Other players in this position group have also proven that they can play in the Big Ten, even though they may not be near the top of the depth chart barring major improvement during camp in August. These players include <span>Ayo Shogbonyo</span> and <span>Deon Pate</span>, both of whom have seen substantial playing time and even a few starts over the past two seasons.</p>
<p id="4IyV0j">And of course, there is Oluwole Betiku Jr., the defensive end transfer from USC. A former five-star recruit and top-15 player in the nation, Betiku Jr. appeared in just 14 games in 2016 and 2017 before missing all of last season with a hip injury. He comes to Champaign with a lot to prove and very little experience, but the reward would certainly make the risk worth it.</p>
<p id="b7mK55">With the existing depth across the defensive line and a consistent deference to older players at the position during Lovie’s tenure, it’s unlikely that incoming freshmen Moses Okpala and Seth Coleman find significant playing time on the field this season unless major injuries strike the older defensive ends.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2019/7/18/20698758/2019-football-position-preview-defensive-line-illinois-fighting-illini-football-owen-carneyMatt Rejc