Fourth-and-blog

55 days to Camp Rantoul

Posted by: Bob Asmussen

Thursday, June 11, 2009 11:08 AM

No. 25: Ashante Williams, defensive back.

Why he's important: He will be seeing his first playing time after redshirting in 2008. A cornerback when he got to Illinois, Williams made a smooth transition to safety, a position of need for the Illini. He performed well in the spring and will compete for a starting job at Camp Rantoul. With uncertainty at safety because of Donsay Hardeman's injury, he could have a major impact. Illinois coaches realized last season how important departed Kevin Mitchell and Justin Harrison were to the defense. Williams could be part of the solution to an area that underperformed in 2008.

Getting personal:  Enrolled a semester early at Illinois, in January 2008, after a standout career in Mayfield, Ohio. Played both ways in high school, working as a defensive back and receiver. Picked Illinois over Indiana, Syracuse and Pitt. Part of the growing contingent of Ohio players on the team. Several of the Illini coaches have Ohio background, including Ron Zook.

To see No. 26, click here.

To see No. 27, click here.

To see No. 28, click here.

To see No. 29, click here.

To see No. 30, click here.

To see No. 31, click here.

To see No. 32, click here.

To see No. 33, click here.

To see No. 34, click here.

To see No. 35, click here.

To see No. 36, click here.

To see No. 37, click here.

To see No. 38, click here.

To see No. 39, click here.

To see No. 40, click here.

To see No. 41, click here.

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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