Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:52 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
We've got a bunch of questions ready to go, so I'm going to get started a bit early.
Thanks again for your participation.
Illini1973 from Belleville, ILL...ini — 11:52 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
What have you heard, if anything, about a team 'organized' handshake BEFORE the game with misery, as the gestapo wants all teams to do?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:54 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Illini1973,
From what I understand, the force behind the move is the American Football Coaches Association. I don't think the teams will be required to shake hands, but my guess is that all of them will.
I know there are some Illinois players who won't be happy about it. And there will be guys at Missouri who don't like it either. But it's a gesture to the fans that at least the teams are trying to be good sports. Of course, some of the fans will hate it too.
If you watch international competitions, there seems to be a push toward more sportsmanship. I'm OK with it.
The big concern is the possibility that the pregame handshake turns into a pregame brawl. I doubt it will happen, but you never know.
Nick from Peoria, IL — 11:55 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Rahkeem Smith has played seemingly everywhere during his Illini career. Will he have an impact this year on the defensive line?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:56 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Nick,
Whenever I watch Rahkeem in practice, he is getting past an offensive lineman and getting after the quarterback. I think he will be part of the rotation, especially on obvious passing downs. He isn't the biggest tackle ever, but he bursts off the line.
Mark from Normal, IL — 11:57 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Bob, great coverage of camp this season, keep up the good work.
Every great team seems to have a couple of players who contribute way more than was expected before the season. Who on the current roster has a chance to make a big step and do more than is projected?
Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 11:59 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Mark,
I'd start with receiver Chris James, who seemed to have been passed by the other receivers. He's made a good comeback. Another guy I'd suggest is Troy Pollard, who does a good job catching the ball out of the backfield. I think Mike Schultz will find a productive role for him.
Anthony from Maywood , IL — 11:59 AM on Tue, 08/18/2009
I don't think our secondary was that bad last year!! and honestly without vontae I think they'll be better. Not saying he wasn't a good talent but I just think that everyone in the running for the starting spots have game experience and will be more prepared this season!! what are your expectations of Dere Hicks and Donsey Hardeman!!?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:01 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Anthony,
Both guys are coming back from injuries. Dere was the team's most valuable defensive back last year. He's had a rough couple of days, but will be one of the starting cornerbacks.
Donsay Hardeman's return is very surprising. I was told by some people after last season that he might not make it back. But he appears to be playing hard and not worrying about his injury. Unless something happens between now and the Missouri game, he will be in the starting lineup.
Big Jim from Memphis, Tennessee — 12:01 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
In following a number of teams, I am hearing a lot of coach talk about the "Wildcat" no quarterback formation being a growing part of many teams revised strategy for this season. Moving a quarterback outside and direct snapping to a running back creates all kinds of coverage problems and spreads the defense. Is illinois preparing for this new twist and the growing probability it will be a used?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:04 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Big Jim,
The Illinois defense will prepare against it and I think you will see the Illinois offense use some form of the Wildcat. There are plenty of options for the Illini in that position, including Eddie McGee and Jarred Fayson, who played quarterback in high school.
Illinois will keep some of the new formations under wraps. They will work more specifically on the tricky stuff after they get back to Champaign, when practices are closed to the fans and the media.
Randall from Champaign, Illinois — 12:04 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
What are the chances Chris James and Jack Ramsey see any meaningful time at receiver this year.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:05 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Randall,
I think it's likely for both. By my count, Illinois has 10 receivers it can use this season and Ramsey and James are among the 10.
Quentin Lott from Cedar Hill, Texas — 12:05 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Is there a chance Illinois will play a game in the DFW area any time soon?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:06 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Quentin,
I hope so. I'd like to see Illinois either play a game at the new Cowboys Stadium (doesn't everybody?) or play at TCU or SMU. I'm not sure if the Horned Frogs will be on the schedule with Mike Schultz here.
If Illinois wants to recruit Texas, playing a game in the state would make sense. How about Illinois-Texas Tech at The Jerry?
Adam from Greensboro, NC — 12:07 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Hi Bob-thanks for your coverage. How do u see the tailback depth chart shaking out?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:08 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Adam,
I get more confused by the situation each day. Why? Because all five guys take turns having big moments.
Daniel Dufrene, I believe, will get the first shot at Missouri. But I think Jason Ford, Mikel Leshoure, Troy Pollard and Justin Green will all get a chance. Nobody has told me this, but I have to assume Bud Golden will redshirt.
I think the coaches want to play Green early in the season to see what he can do. So, don't be surprised if he gets a series in the first half against the Tigers.
Kraemer from Paris, IL — 12:09 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
How heavily does Michael Buchanan figure to factor into the defensive rotation?
He looked very quick off the ball at the scrimmage on Saturday and it feels like if he adds some weight he may turn into quite a monster.
One other quick comment - there sure is quite a bit of speed on the field now. It's a welcome change of pace from the not so distant past don't you think?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:10 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Kraemer,
I've heard mentions of "Simeon Rice" when people talk about Buchanan. That's high praise at Illinois.
It looks like he will be in the defensive end rotation. How much he plays will depend on how it goes on the field. He needs to add size and strength, but getting him on the field this year will be a huge help for the Illinois defense in 2010, when Doug Pilcher and Antonio James will be gone.
Shief from Champaign, IL — 12:11 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Illinois has a very front heavy schedule this year, who do you think that we will be able upset this year? Ohio State, Penn State, Mich State? (I dont think Mich State is the favorite personally)
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:12 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Shief,
Not to take the easy way out, but I think Illinois can win any or all three of those games. And I think Illinois can lose any or all three of those games. I wish I could know what happened in the Missouri game for Illinois and the Southern Cal game for Ohio State. If Illinois wins and Ohio State loses, I think the Illini have a good chance to win at Columbus again.
BW from Tyngsboro, MA — 12:12 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Bob: Who is your "Camp Rantoul Surprise Performer" at this point?
Who needs to pick-it-up or risk picking splinters from his posterior?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:14 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
BW,
Justin Green is a surprise. Not because I didn't think he was talented. But because I wasn't sure he would be able to pick it up so quickly. Chris James is also in that conversation.
I think Bo Flowers might be falling behind a bit at safety. Not that he can't come back and be a key contributor. But right now, he isn't a starter.
Charley from Bellingham, WA — 12:14 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
What is your honest opinion about Martez Wilson? Will he truly become an All-American or All Big Ten LB? Or become a disappointment (underachiever)?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:15 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Charley,
I really think he can become an All-Big Ten level guy. He has rare talents and simply needs to find the right place to use those talents. I think the move to middle linebacker was a wise one by the Illinois coaches. And don't forget, he will be a major player on special teams.
He seems more confident than ever before. That should help him.
Xiong from La Crosse, WI — 12:15 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
I've been hearing about how Tavon Wilson has been productive thus far; can he be the next big thing out of the D.C area. Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:16 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Xiong,
I think he already is the next big thing out of D.C. He looks very good in practice and eases the defensive coaches concerns about losing Vontae Davis early.
Mike D from Sevilla, Spain — 12:19 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Bob:
I'm going to put you on the spot: what is your predicted outcome for the Missouri game. And I'm looking for a score.
Muchas gracias.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:20 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Dave N from Wheeling, IL — 12:20 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Hello Bob,
It was a pleasure to talk with you and Nathan's mom and dad at camp Rantoul last Wed, Thur, Fri. 2 questions. 1 who was the older guy who was there (I think a sports writer who was doing interviews). 2 It looked like the DBs were keeping some passes from being completed (I like Sanni), given how good the receivers should be, how good do you think the DBs can be.
Thanks, Dave
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:22 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Dave,
It was great to meet you, too.
1. I think you must be talking about our columnist, Loren Tate. He fits the "older guy" part and he asks a lot of questions. You can check out his picture and see if that's who you are talking about. Let me know.
2. I think playing against the Illinois receivers has to be a good thing for the Illinois defensive backs. They might run into one or two guys as talented, but they will never see a more talented group. So, the guy going against the No. 7 receiver is better prepared. The secondary can be a big plus for the Illinois defense if everybody stays healthy.
Illini1973 from Scott AFB, ILL...ini — 12:23 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
How has Hardeman looked in contact drills? Is he 'gun shy'? Will he be the
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:24 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Illini1973,
I thought Donsay might be a bit timid in some of the drills, but he hasn't been. I think when the Missouri game arrives, he will be an important part of the defense. And he should be one of the players asked to stop the run against the Tigers.
ILL WILL from Peoria, IL — 12:24 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Love the chats Bob, my question is... Do you think Martez's athletic ability may improve Illinois defense against all these spread offenses, whereas it seemed that sometimes Brit and J before him sruggled with the speed of some of those offenses.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:26 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
ILL WILL,
What Brit Miller and J Leman might have lacked in speed, they made up for with experience and knowledge. Their huge tackle numbers weren't by accident. But I do think Martez Wilson adds a different dimension to the defense. Offenses will have to account for him on every play. And he come at them from so many different angles. I hate to make this comparison, but he can become a lesser version of LaVar Arrington during his Penn State days. That's the kind of role I see him playing (don't tell Elmer Hickman).
Bob Asmussen from Rantoul, IL — 12:26 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Hey you again,
As camp winds to an end how about a mid camp Mizzou-Illinois preview?
p.s. what's the quality of the food the players eat at camp?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:28 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Bob,
Again, weird that I'm asking myself questions, though I do talk to myself at Camp Rantoul. A lot.
I've read a little bit about the Tigers during their training camp. It sounds like the offense will be OK even with the major hits. The question is the defense. Chatty Sean Weatherspoon should have looked at the stats from last season, when Juice Williams set an Edward Jones Dome record for total offense.
I think the Illinois offense is better and the Illinois defense should stop the Tigers enough to deliver a win.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:29 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Bob,
Sorry, forgot about the food question. It sounds like it is really good.
Charley from Bellingham, WA — 12:29 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
What is your latest W-L record for this year's team?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:30 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Charley,
I'm sticking with 9-3, the losses against Ohio State, Penn State and Cincinnati.
Again, I'm wrong all the time.
TK from Tampa, Florida — 12:30 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Really enjoy the football coverage and analysis at Camp Rantoul. With all the talent offensively at the skill positions, how much improvement can we expect from the offensive line? Also, with so many options available on offense will we see more of the wildcat formation?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:32 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
TK,
I think there is a link between the play of the skill positions and the improvement of the offensive line. The better the play on the outside and down the field, the easier it is for the line. Blocks won't need to be held as long. And the Illini should have opposing defenses on their heals often. That's when offensive lines thrive, when they can be aggressive and not defensive. I also think Joe Gilbert has brought a lot to the unit.
Illinois will use some form of the Wildcat, I believe. Don't know what it will be called. Maybe "The Zooker."
Tim Yerkey from Geneseo, Illinois — 12:32 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
In your opinion who will be the two starting outside linebackers for the Missouri game ?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:33 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Tim,
Ian Thomas is at one spot. I'll give you a tentative Russell Ellington at the other. But I don't think Illinois will need three linebackers much against Missouri. When there are two, it will be Martez Wilson and Thomas.
Chris from Romeoville, il — 12:33 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Hey Bob
Hey i was looking at the scrimmage and i saw a lot of Micheal Buchanan. What do you think? Do you see Justin Green as a good receiver? Last thing i was curious why some of the 3rd team o-line seem to be not very good? I mean you figure these guys are suppose to be decent it didn't seem like they had many good plays.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:35 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Chris,
Michael Buchanan, if he progresses, can be an All-Big Ten level player at Illinois.
Justin Green seems to catch the ball well. He won't become a receiver, but he'll be a threat out of the backfield.
I didn't watch much of the work by the third offensive line Saturday. I should have. It's a lot of younger guys who are finding their way. Sometimes, development on the line takes years. I'll give you Randall Hunt as an example of that. Not everybody is ready like Jeff Allen and Jon Asamoah.
Charley from Bellingham, WA — 12:35 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
I hear ESPN Game Day at C-U (with MSU)! Thoughts on this?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:37 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Charley,
Sorry, I thought we were talking about football. But now I see on HQ that it's the basketball game. Maybe GameDay will come to Champaign in the fall for the Illinois-Michigan State football game.
That's great that they will be here for basketball and makes perfect sense what with the expected success of both teams.
Ryan from Decatur, IL — 12:39 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Who do you think will be one unsung hero for both offense and defense this year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:41 PM on Tue, 08/18/2009
Ryan,
I love this kind of question because it's the kind I always throw at the coaches.
On offense: Hubie Graham. He's the No. 2 tight end for a team that will use that formation a lot. I'm guessing he scores a handful of touchdowns.
On defense: Supo Sanni. He looked very good in the Rantoul scrimmage and is going to get plenty of time at safety, even if he isn't the starter.
We've got a bunch of questions ready to go, so I'm going to get started a bit early.
Thanks again for your participation.
What have you heard, if anything, about a team 'organized' handshake BEFORE the game with misery, as the gestapo wants all teams to do?
Illini1973,
From what I understand, the force behind the move is the American Football Coaches Association. I don't think the teams will be required to shake hands, but my guess is that all of them will.
I know there are some Illinois players who won't be happy about it. And there will be guys at Missouri who don't like it either. But it's a gesture to the fans that at least the teams are trying to be good sports. Of course, some of the fans will hate it too.
If you watch international competitions, there seems to be a push toward more sportsmanship. I'm OK with it.
The big concern is the possibility that the pregame handshake turns into a pregame brawl. I doubt it will happen, but you never know.
Rahkeem Smith has played seemingly everywhere during his Illini career. Will he have an impact this year on the defensive line?
Nick,
Whenever I watch Rahkeem in practice, he is getting past an offensive lineman and getting after the quarterback. I think he will be part of the rotation, especially on obvious passing downs. He isn't the biggest tackle ever, but he bursts off the line.
Bob, great coverage of camp this season, keep up the good work.
Every great team seems to have a couple of players who contribute way more than was expected before the season. Who on the current roster has a chance to make a big step and do more than is projected?
Thanks
Mark,
I'd start with receiver Chris James, who seemed to have been passed by the other receivers. He's made a good comeback. Another guy I'd suggest is Troy Pollard, who does a good job catching the ball out of the backfield. I think Mike Schultz will find a productive role for him.
I don't think our secondary was that bad last year!! and honestly without vontae I think they'll be better. Not saying he wasn't a good talent but I just think that everyone in the running for the starting spots have game experience and will be more prepared this season!! what are your expectations of Dere Hicks and Donsey Hardeman!!?
Anthony,
Both guys are coming back from injuries. Dere was the team's most valuable defensive back last year. He's had a rough couple of days, but will be one of the starting cornerbacks.
Donsay Hardeman's return is very surprising. I was told by some people after last season that he might not make it back. But he appears to be playing hard and not worrying about his injury. Unless something happens between now and the Missouri game, he will be in the starting lineup.
In following a number of teams, I am hearing a lot of coach talk about the "Wildcat" no quarterback formation being a growing part of many teams revised strategy for this season. Moving a quarterback outside and direct snapping to a running back creates all kinds of coverage problems and spreads the defense. Is illinois preparing for this new twist and the growing probability it will be a used?
Big Jim,
The Illinois defense will prepare against it and I think you will see the Illinois offense use some form of the Wildcat. There are plenty of options for the Illini in that position, including Eddie McGee and Jarred Fayson, who played quarterback in high school.
Illinois will keep some of the new formations under wraps. They will work more specifically on the tricky stuff after they get back to Champaign, when practices are closed to the fans and the media.
What are the chances Chris James and Jack Ramsey see any meaningful time at receiver this year.
Randall,
I think it's likely for both. By my count, Illinois has 10 receivers it can use this season and Ramsey and James are among the 10.
Is there a chance Illinois will play a game in the DFW area any time soon?
Quentin,
I hope so. I'd like to see Illinois either play a game at the new Cowboys Stadium (doesn't everybody?) or play at TCU or SMU. I'm not sure if the Horned Frogs will be on the schedule with Mike Schultz here.
If Illinois wants to recruit Texas, playing a game in the state would make sense. How about Illinois-Texas Tech at The Jerry?
Hi Bob-thanks for your coverage. How do u see the tailback depth chart shaking out?
Adam,
I get more confused by the situation each day. Why? Because all five guys take turns having big moments.
Daniel Dufrene, I believe, will get the first shot at Missouri. But I think Jason Ford, Mikel Leshoure, Troy Pollard and Justin Green will all get a chance. Nobody has told me this, but I have to assume Bud Golden will redshirt.
I think the coaches want to play Green early in the season to see what he can do. So, don't be surprised if he gets a series in the first half against the Tigers.
How heavily does Michael Buchanan figure to factor into the defensive rotation?
He looked very quick off the ball at the scrimmage on Saturday and it feels like if he adds some weight he may turn into quite a monster.
One other quick comment - there sure is quite a bit of speed on the field now. It's a welcome change of pace from the not so distant past don't you think?
Kraemer,
I've heard mentions of "Simeon Rice" when people talk about Buchanan. That's high praise at Illinois.
It looks like he will be in the defensive end rotation. How much he plays will depend on how it goes on the field. He needs to add size and strength, but getting him on the field this year will be a huge help for the Illinois defense in 2010, when Doug Pilcher and Antonio James will be gone.
Illinois has a very front heavy schedule this year, who do you think that we will be able upset this year? Ohio State, Penn State, Mich State? (I dont think Mich State is the favorite personally)
Shief,
Not to take the easy way out, but I think Illinois can win any or all three of those games. And I think Illinois can lose any or all three of those games. I wish I could know what happened in the Missouri game for Illinois and the Southern Cal game for Ohio State. If Illinois wins and Ohio State loses, I think the Illini have a good chance to win at Columbus again.
Bob: Who is your "Camp Rantoul Surprise Performer" at this point?
Who needs to pick-it-up or risk picking splinters from his posterior?
BW,
Justin Green is a surprise. Not because I didn't think he was talented. But because I wasn't sure he would be able to pick it up so quickly. Chris James is also in that conversation.
I think Bo Flowers might be falling behind a bit at safety. Not that he can't come back and be a key contributor. But right now, he isn't a starter.
What is your honest opinion about Martez Wilson? Will he truly become an All-American or All Big Ten LB? Or become a disappointment (underachiever)?
Charley,
I really think he can become an All-Big Ten level guy. He has rare talents and simply needs to find the right place to use those talents. I think the move to middle linebacker was a wise one by the Illinois coaches. And don't forget, he will be a major player on special teams.
He seems more confident than ever before. That should help him.
I've been hearing about how Tavon Wilson has been productive thus far; can he be the next big thing out of the D.C area. Thanks
Xiong,
I think he already is the next big thing out of D.C. He looks very good in practice and eases the defensive coaches concerns about losing Vontae Davis early.
Bob:
I'm going to put you on the spot: what is your predicted outcome for the Missouri game. And I'm looking for a score.
Muchas gracias.
Mike D.,
Spot taken: Illinois 35, Missouri 27. Remember, I'm wrong a lot.
Hello Bob,
It was a pleasure to talk with you and Nathan's mom and dad at camp Rantoul last Wed, Thur, Fri. 2 questions. 1 who was the older guy who was there (I think a sports writer who was doing interviews). 2 It looked like the DBs were keeping some passes from being completed (I like Sanni), given how good the receivers should be, how good do you think the DBs can be.
Thanks, Dave
Dave,
It was great to meet you, too.
1. I think you must be talking about our columnist, Loren Tate. He fits the "older guy" part and he asks a lot of questions. You can check out his picture and see if that's who you are talking about. Let me know.
2. I think playing against the Illinois receivers has to be a good thing for the Illinois defensive backs. They might run into one or two guys as talented, but they will never see a more talented group. So, the guy going against the No. 7 receiver is better prepared. The secondary can be a big plus for the Illinois defense if everybody stays healthy.
How has Hardeman looked in contact drills? Is he 'gun shy'? Will he be the
Illini1973,
I thought Donsay might be a bit timid in some of the drills, but he hasn't been. I think when the Missouri game arrives, he will be an important part of the defense. And he should be one of the players asked to stop the run against the Tigers.
Love the chats Bob, my question is... Do you think Martez's athletic ability may improve Illinois defense against all these spread offenses, whereas it seemed that sometimes Brit and J before him sruggled with the speed of some of those offenses.
ILL WILL,
What Brit Miller and J Leman might have lacked in speed, they made up for with experience and knowledge. Their huge tackle numbers weren't by accident. But I do think Martez Wilson adds a different dimension to the defense. Offenses will have to account for him on every play. And he come at them from so many different angles. I hate to make this comparison, but he can become a lesser version of LaVar Arrington during his Penn State days. That's the kind of role I see him playing (don't tell Elmer Hickman).
Hey you again,
As camp winds to an end how about a mid camp Mizzou-Illinois preview?
p.s. what's the quality of the food the players eat at camp?
Bob,
Again, weird that I'm asking myself questions, though I do talk to myself at Camp Rantoul. A lot.
I've read a little bit about the Tigers during their training camp. It sounds like the offense will be OK even with the major hits. The question is the defense. Chatty Sean Weatherspoon should have looked at the stats from last season, when Juice Williams set an Edward Jones Dome record for total offense.
I think the Illinois offense is better and the Illinois defense should stop the Tigers enough to deliver a win.
Bob,
Sorry, forgot about the food question. It sounds like it is really good.
What is your latest W-L record for this year's team?
Charley,
I'm sticking with 9-3, the losses against Ohio State, Penn State and Cincinnati.
Again, I'm wrong all the time.
Really enjoy the football coverage and analysis at Camp Rantoul. With all the talent offensively at the skill positions, how much improvement can we expect from the offensive line? Also, with so many options available on offense will we see more of the wildcat formation?
TK,
I think there is a link between the play of the skill positions and the improvement of the offensive line. The better the play on the outside and down the field, the easier it is for the line. Blocks won't need to be held as long. And the Illini should have opposing defenses on their heals often. That's when offensive lines thrive, when they can be aggressive and not defensive. I also think Joe Gilbert has brought a lot to the unit.
Illinois will use some form of the Wildcat, I believe. Don't know what it will be called. Maybe "The Zooker."
In your opinion who will be the two starting outside linebackers for the Missouri game ?
Tim,
Ian Thomas is at one spot. I'll give you a tentative Russell Ellington at the other. But I don't think Illinois will need three linebackers much against Missouri. When there are two, it will be Martez Wilson and Thomas.
Hey Bob
Hey i was looking at the scrimmage and i saw a lot of Micheal Buchanan. What do you think? Do you see Justin Green as a good receiver? Last thing i was curious why some of the 3rd team o-line seem to be not very good? I mean you figure these guys are suppose to be decent it didn't seem like they had many good plays.
Chris,
Michael Buchanan, if he progresses, can be an All-Big Ten level player at Illinois.
Justin Green seems to catch the ball well. He won't become a receiver, but he'll be a threat out of the backfield.
I didn't watch much of the work by the third offensive line Saturday. I should have. It's a lot of younger guys who are finding their way. Sometimes, development on the line takes years. I'll give you Randall Hunt as an example of that. Not everybody is ready like Jeff Allen and Jon Asamoah.
I hear ESPN Game Day at C-U (with MSU)! Thoughts on this?
Charley,
Sorry, I thought we were talking about football. But now I see on HQ that it's the basketball game. Maybe GameDay will come to Champaign in the fall for the Illinois-Michigan State football game.
That's great that they will be here for basketball and makes perfect sense what with the expected success of both teams.
Who do you think will be one unsung hero for both offense and defense this year?
Ryan,
I love this kind of question because it's the kind I always throw at the coaches.
On offense: Hubie Graham. He's the No. 2 tight end for a team that will use that formation a lot. I'm guessing he scores a handful of touchdowns.
On defense: Supo Sanni. He looked very good in the Rantoul scrimmage and is going to get plenty of time at safety, even if he isn't the starter.