For 50 days, we're ranking the most important Illini for the 2010 season.

No. 34: Patrick Nixon-Youman, defensive back

Why he's important: Expected to be one of the first cornerbacks off the bench, backing up starters Tavon Wilson and Terry Hawthorne. Jacksonville (Fla.) native was slowed in 2009 by nasty leg injury suffered during spring drills. Returned to play on special teams, recording a tackle against Fresno State in the season finale. Was a playmaker in high school, intercepting seven passes his junior year. At the time of his recruitment, coaches expected him to make a push to start early. Recovered from his leg injury, he could again become a factor on defense.

Fast fact: Originally part of the 2008 recruiting class, he had to sit out his first semester while watiing to get academic clearance.

Tomorrow: No. 33

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