71 days to Camp Rantoul
No. 41: Clay Nurse, defensive end.
Why he's important: The loss of starters Derek Walker and Will Davis gives all the returnees at defensive end a chance to get on the field more. Nurse has shown flashes of greatness during his time at Illinois,. but hasn't been a consistent force for the defense. Part of his problem has been injuries, including a shoulder problem that cost him most of his freshman season. Nurse looked very good during spring practices.
Getting personal: Part of the D.C. area contingent on the team, he played at High Point in Beltsville, Md. Personality wise, Nurse is a good combination of friendly and funny. He certainly has confidence in his ability, but not to the point of cockiness. He's the only Illini who can list "cricket" as one of the sports he has played in the past.
To see No. 42, click here.
To see No. 43, click here.
To see No. 44, click here.
To see No. 45, click here.
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