Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:58 AM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Welcome back to another chat. We've got a bunch of questions that I will get to in a moment.
For next week's chat, the time might be a little bit later, probably 2 or so. I'll be coming back from the Big Ten kickoff luncheon and figure to get caught in Chicago traffic. We will post the time later.
Now, off to the questions.
Al Ryle from Champaign, il — 11:58 AM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Bob,
You have consistantly said Josh BRET Would avoid game suspensions I would agree with you if it were Zook's decion, but with the Chancelor Herman under fire right now I think he will take a hard line and demand at least a two game suspension if not more. Your thoughts?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:59 AM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Al,
I really have a hard time believing the chancellor will be able to get involved with this because of all the other current issues on campus. Influencegate has to take a high priority. If Josh was given a two-game suspension by the chancellor, many would view it as him taking a hard line now to help with his job situation. If the decision is left to Ron Guenther and Ron Zook, I believe Josh won't face a game suspension. He spent time in jail already. I think they will view that as punishment enough. I don't think they will face a ton of criticism if Josh is allowed to play.
Jason from Washington, DC — 11:59 AM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Bob, how would you rate the way the coaches feel about the team's chances this year compared to this time last year? Did the coaches kind of know going into last season that it might turnout the way it did?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:00 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Jason,
I think the coaches were optimistic about 2008. But they also understood they took some huge personnel hits, starting with Rashard Mendenhall, J Leman, Chris Norwell, Kevin Mitchell, Martin O'Donnell, Justin Harrison, etc., etc. I think their base goal was a bowl game and a chance to have extra practices. They didn't see a repeat of 2007, partly because of the graduation losses and partly because of the schedule. I think there were some concerns from the coaches that expectations had gone up too quickly. Which makes sense.
It's a completely different attitude among the coaches and players now. They aren't worried about repeating a Rose Bowl season. They were very focused and pleased during spring ball. The schedule is easier, though the start of the Big Ten is nasty. I think the changes in the coaching staff were positive too. Not that you want to see good people leave, but there are new ideas in the football office that might help the team get through any rough patches.
Steve from Champaign Co., IL — 12:00 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Thx for your time Bob. Many former Illini across sports come back for reunions and give back to the community. What 2-3 current football players strike you as most likely to come back and give back BIG in the future? Who are the next Dave Diehls, and why?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:00 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Steve,
Start with Kelvin Hayden, who had a very positive experience at Illinois and credits the school for helping him to make it in the NFL. He also just signed a huge deal, so he has the money to donate.
I think Pierre Thomas will be back in a big way at Illinois at some point in the future. Again, he had a good time at Illinois and is having an even better time in the NFL.
And once Arrelious Benn gets established, he will be a huge asset to the football program. He has a great relationship with the coaching staff and seems to enjoy C-U.
will from chicago, IL — 12:05 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Do you think Bo Flowers will start at safety? and if he does, how do you think he will do!?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:06 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Will,
Bo is certainly in the mix and right now would be one of the top contenders. Camp Rantoul will go a long way in determining who takes the two safety spots. If Donsay Hardeman is healthy, he gets one of them.
Bo is into football mode now. It took a bit of time after playing baseball as a pro. But I think he realizes he has an opportunity to continue his career after college and will work hard toward that goal. Physically, he's a talented guy.
charlie from forsyth, IL — 12:06 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
How do you feel about the safeties this year, and do you think Fayson will start?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:06 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Charlie,
The comfort level for the Illini at safety will be greatly enhanced if Donsay Hardeman is back to his old form. All the pieces kind of fall from there. If he's healthy, it creates heavy competition at the other spot. The coaches will use that competition to their advantage and will have a motivated group of guys.
I think Fayson will start at one of the three receiver spots. He's going to be very important to the offense.
Andy from Columbus, OH — 12:07 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Hi Bob,
I plan on attending the Illini-OSU game in Columbus this September. Do you think the Illini have a shot at repeating their 2007 success in the Horse Shoe? I'd love to see the Buckeye fans humbled once again....
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:07 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Andy,
I think it's possible, but I'll have a much better idea after I see how the teams start the season. If Illinois beats Missouri, it will go into Columbus with a lot of confidence. Likewise, if Ohio State knocks off Southern Cal, it's going to be hard to beat. I want to see how Terrelle Pryor starts the season.
The trip to Columbus is always my favorite in the Big Ten. There isn't a better pregame atmosphere in the conference and the building is spectacular.
Tom from Tuscola, Illinois — 12:08 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
What is your predicion on the score for the Illinois/Mizzou game? How many touchdowns do you think Arrelious Benn will have in the game?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:09 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Tom,
Don't hold me to this because a lot will happen in both training camps to change the teams, but Illinois 42, Missouri 35. This time, Missouri will be the team driving for the late touchdown, but not getting it because of a turnover.
Though Missouri lost a ton of great players, it will still be good. And I won't be surprised if the Tigers win the Big 12 North.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:10 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Tom,
Sorry, I forgot about the Arrelious Benn part of your question. Two.
PoPo from South, Illinois — 12:10 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
After Juice is gone, is Eddie McGee the QB next year? Or can someone upset him?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:11 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
PoPo,
I think Eddie is the first option. But I think any of the other three quarterbacks can win the job.
I would think, based on expected experience, that Jacob Charest will be the top challenger. But Nathan Scheelhaase will have been here a year and Chandler Whitmer will have been here a semester.
No matter what happens, Illinois appears to be in good shape at the position for several years.
Jeff B. from Madison, WI — 12:11 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
With Notre Dame announcing they will be playing Army in Yankee Stadium in the future, I was curious if there had been any new information on the possibility of playing at Wrigley Fied for a future Illinois/Northwestern game.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:13 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Jeff,
I don't think Illinois will play Northwestern at Wrigley Field unless the Wildcats are the ones giving up the home game. Illinois is getting out of neutral-site games after 2010, so no reason to play another one.
Interesting stat: Illinois has lost seven consecutive neutral-site games.
Chirs from Chicago, Illinois — 12:13 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
What do you think about Clay Nurse's chnace of starting.Do you think he'll make an impact this upcoming season.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:13 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Chirs,
That's funny that you ask. We are doing a big story on Clay for our Aug. 2 camp preview, which tells you that I think he is going to have an impact. He's a very nice kid with an interesting background. I think you'll like to read about it. And, if he can avoid injury, he will be one of the three guys getting the bulk of the time at defensive end.
Shief from Champaign, IL — 12:14 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
This year's Illini passing game is ranked among the top 5, where do you see the running game and defense this year? Will these important squads be able to step up and confuse the other team's defense with a run and stop the other team from driving down the field?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:14 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Shief,
Illinois can't win without a consistent running game. And it can't win if the quarterbacks is the leading rusher. I think one of the tailbacks will emerge and have a good season. And that will help the passing game a lot. The defense has a chance to be better. It has to force more turnovers. And it has to avoid giving up time-consuming drives. Illinois wants its offense on the field. The more the defense gets Juice Williams the ball after a three-and-out, the better.
Gino Panozzo from Caledonia, Mi. — 12:14 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Did you notice any change, whether it be in mechanics, decision making or an overall confidence that Juice may have benefitted from Coach Schultz's expertise. I understand that Coach Locksley was highly thought of, but this was, I believe his 1st OC position & coach Schults has eight yrs. of OC experience coming in. What are your thoughts?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:15 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Gino,
I think Mike Locksley had a great impact on Juice's career. That being said, you can always learn more. And having a new voice or two has to help Juice. I think the hiring of Mike Schultz is significant. And I think the move of Kurt Beathard to work with the quarterbacks is very important. Though I'm sure he misses Locksley, Juice has moved on without complaint.
Juice also has the look of a fifth-year quarterback. Extremely confident and a strong leader. It reminds me of Kurt Kittner going into 2001.
Phil from Chicago, IL — 12:16 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
I was wondering if somebody could clear this up. I keep hearing people talk about Quincy Miller as a posibility for the 2011 class..However I remember Miller cutting his list on or around July 7th, and saw a blurb about it on ESPN's recruiting page where he listed his top 5 teams of Kentucky, Duke ,Wake Forest,Oklahoma and Baylor. Are we really still a player here even though he has left us out of his top 5?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:18 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Phil,
Our basketball ace, Paul Klee, just told me that Illinois is still recruiting Quincy. He said it is too early to handicap, but that Illinois is a long shot. Still, there are Chicago ties and the Illinois coaches aren't likely to give up. Quincy is a long way from Champaign. But so are some of his other options.
Tony from maywood, IL — 12:18 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
It seems as though Illinois being short changed by everyone around the country, I think Illinois is going to be one of biggest suprises in the country if not the biggest!! How do you honestly feel the Illini will do??
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:18 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Tony,
I think Illinois has a chance to win every game it plays. I also think it has a chance to lose 10 of the 12 games it plays. Honestly, I think it's a pretty good setup for Illinois to have an 8-4 or 9-3 season. Health is critical at a couple of spots. And so is improvement in the special teams and turnover margin. The Missouri game is big for Illlinois. So are the first three Big Ten games.
Harold from Jacksonville, Illinois — 12:18 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Will the Team host the meet and greet when they break from Camp Rantoul, as they did last year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:18 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Harold,
There will be a Fan Day at Memorial Stadium on Aug. 29. The time hasn't been set yet. I will let you know when it is. Probably sometime in the early afternoon.
The Camp Rantoul schedule will be released soon. I will put it on HQ as soon as it is available.
Danimal from Champaign, Il — 12:19 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Bob, I think special teams are going to make or break this season. Is the Zooker seeking some extra help or advice on how to fix this problem area. It is inexcusable to continue to be poor at special teams play.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:19 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Danimal,
Ron Zook understands the importance of special teams. That's a big part of his coaching history. I don't know if he has sought outside help. That sounds like a good idea and I'll ask him about it. I agree with you that special teams are critical to the Illinois success. If Illinois wants to have a big season, it can't lose a game because of deficiencies in punting or kicking. The spring competition among the kickers seemed to be a good thing.
Jason from Pekin, IL — 12:19 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
How is our depth looking on the defensive side of the ball? Can we expect marked improvement from last year with both the defense and special teams?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:19 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Jason,
At end, the depth seems adequate. Same goes for tackle, especially with Josh Brent back. Linebacker is a work in progress, but the youth excites the coaches. Bringing in Aaron Gress in the spring will help at the position. I think the secondary is extremely deep at cornerback and developing at safety.
If the punting game doesn't improve by about 50 spots in the national ranking, Ron Zook will be unhappy about it. It was a point of emphasis in the spring and will continue to be in the fall.
I think the return teams will be improved. There are a bunch of skill guys for the Illini to use as returners and that's where the success starts.
Dave c. from Champaign, IL. — 12:19 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Bob,
My sense is that the Illini have a top 20, maybe better, offfense but several question marks on defense. Going into the season, how would you rank the defense on a national level, and what are the keys on defense to watch for signs of success this season?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:20 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Dave,
I think Illinois has a middle of the pack defense nationally with a chance to improve. I think forcing turnovers and getting to the quarterback are critical components of any defense. The line should be good, especially when Josh Brent gets back. Watch the development at linebacker. If Martez Wilson plays like I think he can in the middle, he could have a huge season tackles-wise. In the secondary, the safety spot continues to be a question, but Illinois looks like it is strong at cornerback. That's hard to imagine after losing Vontae Davis a year early.
Hugh from Waco , Texas — 12:20 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
You think that Fayson will start at receiver how many receptions/rushes will he get? How many touchdowns? Ho many reception and scores can Cumberland get this season?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:23 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Hugh,
I would think Fayson will be the No. 2 receiver on the team behind Arrelious Benn. If the ball goes in the air as much as I think it will, he should be looking at a 40-plus catch season with a handful of touchdowns.
I think Jeff Cumberland will be in the 30-40 catch range, with four to six touchdowns. He can become a go-to guy near the end zone.
The wildcard in all of this is Michael Hoomanawanui, who could have a huge year, especially if opposing defenses worry too much about Benn, Fayson, etc.
Len from San Bernaradino, ca — 12:24 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
I read Rivals, Scout and Espn on Illinois football reruiting. Are there any 4 star prospects out there we look really good at landing. Three list on Scouts are fours and the others don't show any high on Illinois.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:28 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Len,
Remember, those lists change as guys progress or add offers. Today's three-star player can become tomorrow's four-star guy in a hurry.
Start with Kyle Prater, who I expect will pick Illinois. He's actually a five-star.
Receivers Shakim Phillips and Dyjuan Lewis both have Illinois on their lists. So do a trio of running backs. And defensive end Corey Lemonnier seems like a possibility with his ties to Corey Liuget.
Matt Milton, who Rivals lists as a three-star, could move to a four.
al from jacjsonville, fl — 12:29 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
how is aj jenkins doing
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:30 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Al,
I know the coaches really like him. Besides his work as a receiver, he can be a help on special teams. I think when Arrelious Benn leaves after this season, A.J. gains an even bigger role.
The depth at receiver is impressive. But I don't think in this offense you can have too many good receivers. And A.J. is one of those players.
Kraemer from Paris, IL — 12:30 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Will Lendell Buckner provide any relief this season on the defensive front should the Illini prove thin or is he headed towards a redshirt season?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:31 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Kraemer,
Can I tell you after watching him two days at Camp Rantoul? It's hard to play early, though not impossible. A lot will depend on how he arrives at camp. If he's in great shape and has had a good summer, he will be given a long look. Defensive tackle is a tough spot to fill. The coaches won't be shy about playing him if he's ready.
Will from URBANA, IL — 12:32 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Bob-
What news have you heard coming from the Elite 11 QB camp that Chandler Whitmer recently attended? Any note worthy news on the other Big 10 QBs who attended?
Matt from Chicago, IL — 12:32 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
I read on ESPN.com about Juice Williams as a counselor at the Elite 11 camp, and Chandler Whitmer leading the accuracy challenge after day 1.
Any way we can get some more updates from the Elite 11 camp out of IlliniHQ?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:34 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
Matt and Will,
We are working on it. I've put in a call to the Whitmers and should hear back soon. We will get something to you as soon as we get some information. I'm not surprised that Chandler is doing well. He was offensive MVP at the Nike camp in C-U.
Chandler is getting a lot of credit for his recruiting. But the guy can play too. His high school coach thinks he can be an excellent Big Ten coach. And from what I've seen of him, he can throw well from the pocket or on the run.
We will keep you updated.
Jimmy from Bloomington, IL — 12:34 PM on Tue, 07/21/2009
How is Fayson and Nixon-Youman recovering form their Spring injuries?
Welcome back to another chat. We've got a bunch of questions that I will get to in a moment.
For next week's chat, the time might be a little bit later, probably 2 or so. I'll be coming back from the Big Ten kickoff luncheon and figure to get caught in Chicago traffic. We will post the time later.
Now, off to the questions.
Bob,
You have consistantly said Josh BRET Would avoid game suspensions I would agree with you if it were Zook's decion, but with the Chancelor Herman under fire right now I think he will take a hard line and demand at least a two game suspension if not more. Your thoughts?
Al,
I really have a hard time believing the chancellor will be able to get involved with this because of all the other current issues on campus. Influencegate has to take a high priority. If Josh was given a two-game suspension by the chancellor, many would view it as him taking a hard line now to help with his job situation. If the decision is left to Ron Guenther and Ron Zook, I believe Josh won't face a game suspension. He spent time in jail already. I think they will view that as punishment enough. I don't think they will face a ton of criticism if Josh is allowed to play.
Bob, how would you rate the way the coaches feel about the team's chances this year compared to this time last year? Did the coaches kind of know going into last season that it might turnout the way it did?
Jason,
I think the coaches were optimistic about 2008. But they also understood they took some huge personnel hits, starting with Rashard Mendenhall, J Leman, Chris Norwell, Kevin Mitchell, Martin O'Donnell, Justin Harrison, etc., etc. I think their base goal was a bowl game and a chance to have extra practices. They didn't see a repeat of 2007, partly because of the graduation losses and partly because of the schedule. I think there were some concerns from the coaches that expectations had gone up too quickly. Which makes sense.
It's a completely different attitude among the coaches and players now. They aren't worried about repeating a Rose Bowl season. They were very focused and pleased during spring ball. The schedule is easier, though the start of the Big Ten is nasty. I think the changes in the coaching staff were positive too. Not that you want to see good people leave, but there are new ideas in the football office that might help the team get through any rough patches.
Thx for your time Bob. Many former Illini across sports come back for reunions and give back to the community. What 2-3 current football players strike you as most likely to come back and give back BIG in the future? Who are the next Dave Diehls, and why?
Steve,
Start with Kelvin Hayden, who had a very positive experience at Illinois and credits the school for helping him to make it in the NFL. He also just signed a huge deal, so he has the money to donate.
I think Pierre Thomas will be back in a big way at Illinois at some point in the future. Again, he had a good time at Illinois and is having an even better time in the NFL.
And once Arrelious Benn gets established, he will be a huge asset to the football program. He has a great relationship with the coaching staff and seems to enjoy C-U.
Do you think Bo Flowers will start at safety? and if he does, how do you think he will do!?
Will,
Bo is certainly in the mix and right now would be one of the top contenders. Camp Rantoul will go a long way in determining who takes the two safety spots. If Donsay Hardeman is healthy, he gets one of them.
Bo is into football mode now. It took a bit of time after playing baseball as a pro. But I think he realizes he has an opportunity to continue his career after college and will work hard toward that goal. Physically, he's a talented guy.
How do you feel about the safeties this year, and do you think Fayson will start?
Charlie,
The comfort level for the Illini at safety will be greatly enhanced if Donsay Hardeman is back to his old form. All the pieces kind of fall from there. If he's healthy, it creates heavy competition at the other spot. The coaches will use that competition to their advantage and will have a motivated group of guys.
I think Fayson will start at one of the three receiver spots. He's going to be very important to the offense.
Hi Bob,
I plan on attending the Illini-OSU game in Columbus this September. Do you think the Illini have a shot at repeating their 2007 success in the Horse Shoe? I'd love to see the Buckeye fans humbled once again....
Andy,
I think it's possible, but I'll have a much better idea after I see how the teams start the season. If Illinois beats Missouri, it will go into Columbus with a lot of confidence. Likewise, if Ohio State knocks off Southern Cal, it's going to be hard to beat. I want to see how Terrelle Pryor starts the season.
The trip to Columbus is always my favorite in the Big Ten. There isn't a better pregame atmosphere in the conference and the building is spectacular.
What is your predicion on the score for the Illinois/Mizzou game? How many touchdowns do you think Arrelious Benn will have in the game?
Tom,
Don't hold me to this because a lot will happen in both training camps to change the teams, but Illinois 42, Missouri 35. This time, Missouri will be the team driving for the late touchdown, but not getting it because of a turnover.
Though Missouri lost a ton of great players, it will still be good. And I won't be surprised if the Tigers win the Big 12 North.
Tom,
Sorry, I forgot about the Arrelious Benn part of your question. Two.
After Juice is gone, is Eddie McGee the QB next year? Or can someone upset him?
PoPo,
I think Eddie is the first option. But I think any of the other three quarterbacks can win the job.
I would think, based on expected experience, that Jacob Charest will be the top challenger. But Nathan Scheelhaase will have been here a year and Chandler Whitmer will have been here a semester.
No matter what happens, Illinois appears to be in good shape at the position for several years.
With Notre Dame announcing they will be playing Army in Yankee Stadium in the future, I was curious if there had been any new information on the possibility of playing at Wrigley Fied for a future Illinois/Northwestern game.
Jeff,
I don't think Illinois will play Northwestern at Wrigley Field unless the Wildcats are the ones giving up the home game. Illinois is getting out of neutral-site games after 2010, so no reason to play another one.
Interesting stat: Illinois has lost seven consecutive neutral-site games.
What do you think about Clay Nurse's chnace of starting.Do you think he'll make an impact this upcoming season.
Chirs,
That's funny that you ask. We are doing a big story on Clay for our Aug. 2 camp preview, which tells you that I think he is going to have an impact. He's a very nice kid with an interesting background. I think you'll like to read about it. And, if he can avoid injury, he will be one of the three guys getting the bulk of the time at defensive end.
This year's Illini passing game is ranked among the top 5, where do you see the running game and defense this year? Will these important squads be able to step up and confuse the other team's defense with a run and stop the other team from driving down the field?
Shief,
Illinois can't win without a consistent running game. And it can't win if the quarterbacks is the leading rusher. I think one of the tailbacks will emerge and have a good season. And that will help the passing game a lot. The defense has a chance to be better. It has to force more turnovers. And it has to avoid giving up time-consuming drives. Illinois wants its offense on the field. The more the defense gets Juice Williams the ball after a three-and-out, the better.
Did you notice any change, whether it be in mechanics, decision making or an overall confidence that Juice may have benefitted from Coach Schultz's expertise. I understand that Coach Locksley was highly thought of, but this was, I believe his 1st OC position & coach Schults has eight yrs. of OC experience coming in. What are your thoughts?
Gino,
I think Mike Locksley had a great impact on Juice's career. That being said, you can always learn more. And having a new voice or two has to help Juice. I think the hiring of Mike Schultz is significant. And I think the move of Kurt Beathard to work with the quarterbacks is very important. Though I'm sure he misses Locksley, Juice has moved on without complaint.
Juice also has the look of a fifth-year quarterback. Extremely confident and a strong leader. It reminds me of Kurt Kittner going into 2001.
I was wondering if somebody could clear this up. I keep hearing people talk about Quincy Miller as a posibility for the 2011 class..However I remember Miller cutting his list on or around July 7th, and saw a blurb about it on ESPN's recruiting page where he listed his top 5 teams of Kentucky, Duke ,Wake Forest,Oklahoma and Baylor. Are we really still a player here even though he has left us out of his top 5?
Phil,
Our basketball ace, Paul Klee, just told me that Illinois is still recruiting Quincy. He said it is too early to handicap, but that Illinois is a long shot. Still, there are Chicago ties and the Illinois coaches aren't likely to give up. Quincy is a long way from Champaign. But so are some of his other options.
It seems as though Illinois being short changed by everyone around the country, I think Illinois is going to be one of biggest suprises in the country if not the biggest!! How do you honestly feel the Illini will do??
Tony,
I think Illinois has a chance to win every game it plays. I also think it has a chance to lose 10 of the 12 games it plays. Honestly, I think it's a pretty good setup for Illinois to have an 8-4 or 9-3 season. Health is critical at a couple of spots. And so is improvement in the special teams and turnover margin. The Missouri game is big for Illlinois. So are the first three Big Ten games.
Will the Team host the meet and greet when they break from Camp Rantoul, as they did last year?
Harold,
There will be a Fan Day at Memorial Stadium on Aug. 29. The time hasn't been set yet. I will let you know when it is. Probably sometime in the early afternoon.
The Camp Rantoul schedule will be released soon. I will put it on HQ as soon as it is available.
Bob, I think special teams are going to make or break this season. Is the Zooker seeking some extra help or advice on how to fix this problem area. It is inexcusable to continue to be poor at special teams play.
Danimal,
Ron Zook understands the importance of special teams. That's a big part of his coaching history. I don't know if he has sought outside help. That sounds like a good idea and I'll ask him about it. I agree with you that special teams are critical to the Illinois success. If Illinois wants to have a big season, it can't lose a game because of deficiencies in punting or kicking. The spring competition among the kickers seemed to be a good thing.
How is our depth looking on the defensive side of the ball? Can we expect marked improvement from last year with both the defense and special teams?
Jason,
At end, the depth seems adequate. Same goes for tackle, especially with Josh Brent back. Linebacker is a work in progress, but the youth excites the coaches. Bringing in Aaron Gress in the spring will help at the position. I think the secondary is extremely deep at cornerback and developing at safety.
If the punting game doesn't improve by about 50 spots in the national ranking, Ron Zook will be unhappy about it. It was a point of emphasis in the spring and will continue to be in the fall.
I think the return teams will be improved. There are a bunch of skill guys for the Illini to use as returners and that's where the success starts.
Bob,
My sense is that the Illini have a top 20, maybe better, offfense but several question marks on defense. Going into the season, how would you rank the defense on a national level, and what are the keys on defense to watch for signs of success this season?
Dave,
I think Illinois has a middle of the pack defense nationally with a chance to improve. I think forcing turnovers and getting to the quarterback are critical components of any defense. The line should be good, especially when Josh Brent gets back. Watch the development at linebacker. If Martez Wilson plays like I think he can in the middle, he could have a huge season tackles-wise. In the secondary, the safety spot continues to be a question, but Illinois looks like it is strong at cornerback. That's hard to imagine after losing Vontae Davis a year early.
You think that Fayson will start at receiver how many receptions/rushes will he get? How many touchdowns? Ho many reception and scores can Cumberland get this season?
Hugh,
I would think Fayson will be the No. 2 receiver on the team behind Arrelious Benn. If the ball goes in the air as much as I think it will, he should be looking at a 40-plus catch season with a handful of touchdowns.
I think Jeff Cumberland will be in the 30-40 catch range, with four to six touchdowns. He can become a go-to guy near the end zone.
The wildcard in all of this is Michael Hoomanawanui, who could have a huge year, especially if opposing defenses worry too much about Benn, Fayson, etc.
I read Rivals, Scout and Espn on Illinois football reruiting. Are there any 4 star prospects out there we look really good at landing. Three list on Scouts are fours and the others don't show any high on Illinois.
Len,
Remember, those lists change as guys progress or add offers. Today's three-star player can become tomorrow's four-star guy in a hurry.
Start with Kyle Prater, who I expect will pick Illinois. He's actually a five-star.
Receivers Shakim Phillips and Dyjuan Lewis both have Illinois on their lists. So do a trio of running backs. And defensive end Corey Lemonnier seems like a possibility with his ties to Corey Liuget.
Matt Milton, who Rivals lists as a three-star, could move to a four.
how is aj jenkins doing
Al,
I know the coaches really like him. Besides his work as a receiver, he can be a help on special teams. I think when Arrelious Benn leaves after this season, A.J. gains an even bigger role.
The depth at receiver is impressive. But I don't think in this offense you can have too many good receivers. And A.J. is one of those players.
Will Lendell Buckner provide any relief this season on the defensive front should the Illini prove thin or is he headed towards a redshirt season?
Kraemer,
Can I tell you after watching him two days at Camp Rantoul? It's hard to play early, though not impossible. A lot will depend on how he arrives at camp. If he's in great shape and has had a good summer, he will be given a long look. Defensive tackle is a tough spot to fill. The coaches won't be shy about playing him if he's ready.
Bob-
What news have you heard coming from the Elite 11 QB camp that Chandler Whitmer recently attended? Any note worthy news on the other Big 10 QBs who attended?
I read on ESPN.com about Juice Williams as a counselor at the Elite 11 camp, and Chandler Whitmer leading the accuracy challenge after day 1.
Any way we can get some more updates from the Elite 11 camp out of IlliniHQ?
Matt and Will,
We are working on it. I've put in a call to the Whitmers and should hear back soon. We will get something to you as soon as we get some information. I'm not surprised that Chandler is doing well. He was offensive MVP at the Nike camp in C-U.
Chandler is getting a lot of credit for his recruiting. But the guy can play too. His high school coach thinks he can be an excellent Big Ten coach. And from what I've seen of him, he can throw well from the pocket or on the run.
We will keep you updated.
How is Fayson and Nixon-Youman recovering form their Spring injuries?