Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:01 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Welcome back to another football chat. Before we get to the questions, I've got a special deal for you. We've got two tickets for tonight's Illinois-Purdue basketball game that we want to give away to somebody on today's chat. They are in C Section, but to me there aren't many bad seats in that building. All you've got to do to have a chance to win is send me an email at asmussen@news-gazette.com in the next hour. Sports editor Jim Rossow will draw the winner. Just make sure you are able to use them and include your phone number. I will announce the winner at the end of the chat.
Now, off to the questions.
Big Joe from Champaign, IL — 01:02 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Mallory's replacement will be __________, and his responsibility will be __________.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:04 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Big Joe,
I'm going to leave the first part blank because there are going to be a bunch of candidates. Joe Cullen's name has come up and I think he is a possibility.
The job will depend on the hire. It could be another DL coach to help Keith Gilmore or a DB coach to help Vic Koenning. Or a special teams expert. I don't think it will be an offensive coach.
Bill Braski from Champaign, Confusion — 01:04 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob,
The offense will be having a change in philosophy going to a more pro style with Petrino. What about the defense? Is Zook open to a change there? Or is it going to be more of the same loose coverage we have come to hate? Also, you promised to ask Guenther for a chat on HQ. When is that going to happen? Illini nation is waiting.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:07 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bill,
About the chat: I promised to try to get him and we will make an effort to do that after signing day. Ron Guenther doesn't have a lot of media availability. What I might do, if this works, is ask for chat questions from everybody, take them to Ron Guenther and then have a tape-delayed chat.
I think there will be differences. But Ron Zook wouldn't hire somebody for defense who wanted to flip the thing upside down. I think you will see a more aggressive defense and I think you will see more pressure on the receivers. It might look different mostly because of the personnel, which figures to include Martez Wilson.
Jimmy from Normal, IL — 01:07 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
What is the overall mood of the staff? How are they feeling about the possible 2010 class? New coaches all settled?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:10 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Jimmy,
I think the new coaches are very excited to be here. And I think the are getting settled. Any time you have an influx of coaches, especially quality guys like Illinois has hired, I think it's a boost for everyone. They know there is plenty of work to do and they are playing catchup on the recruiting class.
We'll get a better sense for the recruiting class in the next few weeks. No matter what happens, they are going to tell you they are happy. That's what coaches do on signing day.
Don from Springfield, Il — 01:10 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob:
What's your gut feeling on us holding to Corey Cooper?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:13 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Don,
It sure sounds like Corey Cooper has moved on, or at least is thinking strongly about moving on. So, I guess I'm going to have to say that he end up at Illinois.
In a weird twist, Famous Hulbert told me the other day that he thinks Corey will sign with Illinois.
I don't think the Illinois coaches have given up on him and I don't think it's over.
JE from Decatur, IL — 01:13 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Will this team ever compete for a Big Ten title in this decade?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:14 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
JE,
I will say yes. Illinois has won the Big Ten and been to the Sugar Bowl in the last decade, so I've got history on my side.
John from Orlando, Florida — 01:14 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
On the surface it looks like we s short safeties, defensive lineman, and possibly linebackers. With approximately 6 or 7 recruits left to fill the class do you feel the above areas will be addressed.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
John,
I think those are priority areas for the final spots in the class. Defensive line seems especially important to this class, though the number of available prospects are dwindling.
Besides working on this year, the new staff members are also laying groundwork for 2011. Getting out there and being seen with Illinois shirts on is important to the staff.
Heath from Champaign, Illinois — 01:17 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Do we have a shot with Matt Milton? And what can you tell me about ANDRE dawson from IOWA?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:20 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Heath,
I believe Matt Milton has practiced with the Vols. He's there to stay.
Andre Dawson looks like a great prospect with a bunch of good offers. He had great numbers as a high school senior.
From a priority standpoint, running back wouldn't be very high for the Illini right now, but the school would obviously find a place for Dawson.
Jason from Bloomington, IL — 01:20 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Some rumors out there that Justin Green is unhappy or looking to move on. Any truth that you know of to those rumors?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:21 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Jason,
I heard that about Justin Green immediately after the season, but also was told there was nothing to it. Having two former Louisville coaches on the staff has to help Justin's comfort level. And he is going to get a chance to play.
I'm eager to see him during the spring. To me, he offers a great changeup for Mikel Leshoure and Jason Ford.
Gregg from Pittsburgh, Pa — 01:22 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Shouldn't the next staff member have ties to Chicago and/or its suburbs? Seems like Illinois is getting beat up in its own backyard. I can't see how that changes - especially with Mitchell gone.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:24 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Gregg,
That makes a lot of sense. I don't think it's mandatory because Dan Disch and DeAndre Smith have recruited the Chicago area. So has Ron Zook. But a Chicago guy joining the program would be helpful to the Illini.
The reason Illinois is getting beat up in Chicago is because of the lack of success on the field the last two years. If the team had gone to three bowl games in a row, I think Kyle Prater, Corey Cooper, etc. might all be on the way. To keep the kids in Illinois, the team has to win on the field. Period.
Tony L. Cain from Baytown, TX — 01:25 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Hi Bob,
Do you feel that with the new coaches who have come on board that perhaps their strengths might be more of that of a teacher as opposed to super recruiters who bring in outstanding talent but do not develop it? I have felt since Coach Zook and his staff arrived here a few years ago that we had great recruiters but not great teachers who develop talent. When I look at my favorite pro team the Houston Texans since Kubiak got here there has been a great deal of growth in terms of player growth that is very evident. I would imagine that is how Iowa has survived and had such a great year this year. Your thoughts? Go ILLINI!
Thanks,
Tony L. Cain Baytown, TX.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:27 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Tony,
You make some very good points. I have heard very good things about Paul Petrino relative to his work as a receivers coach. And Vic Koenning is considered to be a very good teacher.
I think these guys are also very good as recruiters, but you are right that they seem to lean less on that and more on their abilities in practice and in game planning.
Iowa has recruited good players, but also done a good job developing those players.
Dan from Urbana, IL — 01:27 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
What about special teams?
Will that area be improved next season? The punting was better, but the coverage and field goals were a struggle for a lot of the year.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:29 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Dan,
Special teams have been a sore spot for Illinois during Ron Zook's tenure. Because of that, I think there is a possibility a full-time special teams coach could emerge after the next hire.
I don't know what happened to Matt Eller last season. But Derek Dimke looked good after taking over. I think they will battle during the spring and both be given a chance during the season. But Illinois can't allow as many misses as it had last season.
Jim from St. Louis area, Mis-ery — 01:29 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob:
Thanks for sharing your insight..you are much appreciated!!Several things: (1)Are you going to be able to watch practice this year?(2) In talking with our new RB coach, do you feel he is going to try to work Green into the mix? (3) Can you give us your impression of the three early arrivals when you catch up to them? Thanks!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:32 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Jim,
I know I'll be able to watch spring practice and I'm hopeful that practice will be reopened, even on a limited basis, during the season. I think it helps my understanding of the team and allows me to provide you with better coverage. I promise not to complain if practice stays closed.
I didn't get into personnel too much with DeAndre Smith. I will ask him later about Justin.
I've talked to Chandler Whitmer and Trulon Henry a lot already. They are going to take advantage of the spring to try to get ready for the 2010 season. Obviously, Trulon Henry has a great chance to play right away. With Chandler, it will depend more on how quickly he is able to pick up the offense.
Ryan from Decatur, IL — 01:32 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Got any predictions for Benn's combine numbers?
And just how much will a good performance there boost his stock after a disappointing 2009 season?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:34 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Ryan,
I've always felt that Arrelious would do great at the combine. He is working out in California, getting ready for it. I'll be stunned if he doesn't rank among the best receivers. Plus, he will do in the off-the-field stuff.
I think the combine helps. And I think the pro people will see that there are some reasons to explain his 2009 season, starting with health.
R.P. Kraemer from Paris, IL — 01:34 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Kelvin Hayden and the Colts or Brandon Moore and the Jets - who are you taking Sunday afternoon?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:35 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
R.P.,
I like the Colts in a close one. It's great to see Brandon Moore excelling as an offensive lineman. And I was happy to see Steve Weatherford back on the field. Kelvin, Brandon and Steve are the kinds of people you root for. They were great to work with at Illinois and haven't let pro success go to their heads.
jo from chicago, il — 01:36 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
do you know anything about recent commits other than what was provided in the stories about their commitments? i know theyre not the most highly regarded players..any chance theres a j leman in there
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:37 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Jo,
I think there is always a chance for another J Leman or Jon Asamoah in the Illinois recruiting class. You would take all two- and three-star guys if you thought they would pan out like those two.
We are getting more insight into the current class. We will load you up during signing week and will have a Q&A with each of the signees.
Ken from Urbana, IL — 01:37 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob,
how much faith should a person put in recruiting rankings?
I know according to the "experts" the class wouldnt be ranked real high. But Zook is also known as one of the best recruiters around, so that has to mean something.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:39 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Ken,
I think the recruiting rankings are a starting point. If you have a class full of five-star guys, you are likely to do better than a team with a bunch of two-star guys. But you never know how the players will develop. I see the stars as a guide to how good the players are now, not as a projection of their futures. For every superstar who pans out, there are several who don't. The ratings don't measure heart, work ethic, team compatability, etc.
Al from Milwaukee, Wisconsin — 01:40 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Hey Bob,
Two quick questions-
1) Any updates on Derrick McPhearson? Last I saw he was playing minor leauge baseball for the Brewers.
2) Will Zook keep his job if we 4-8 or 5-7 next year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:42 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Al,
Derrick McPhearson was in the Brewers system last year and apparently was a free agent signee. He is also listed in some of the NFL draft stuff as a long shot receiver candidate.
I think Ron Zook's future depends on the look of the season, not necessarily the record. He could have a good 4-8 season (lots of close games) or a bad 5-7. I think 6-6 means an automatic return. Anything less than that is more of an open question.
steve from Champ co, il — 01:42 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Any analysis yet of the penalty problem??
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:44 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Steve,
Great question. Next chance I talk to Ron Zook, I will get into that with him. A lot of it, in my opinion, was a combination of guys trying too hard (late hits) and not being focused on the moment (false starts). I'm sure that will be a point of emphasis during the spring.
Tom from Urbana, IL — 01:44 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
The new DC said that his defense requires good safties. After last seasons secondary problems, that worries me some to hear that.
Can the secondary improve enough to let him run his defense? Or will he not be able to be as aggressive as he would like?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:45 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Tom,
I think Illinois will need to get some help at safety from the incoming class (Trulon Henry) and improved play from the returnees (Garrett Edwards, Walt Aikens). Vic Koenning is a secondary guy, which I think is good for the defense.
Chris from Springfield, Il — 01:45 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Hey Bob:
2 questions: 1)How big of an impact do you see Martez Wilson making next year and at what position? 2)Off the top of your head, about how much personnel is Missouri returning next year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:48 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Chris,
I think Martez Wilson will return to linebacker. Which spot is unclear. But he will be one of the starters. If he's healthy, and I've heard that is going well, he could be the key to a turnaround. He's a tremendously gifted player.
Missouri's got 17 starters back, but loses two very good receivers (Alexander, Perry) and Sean Weatherspoon on defense. The Tigers looked bad against Navy in the bowl game, but should still be very good in 2010. The 2009 season was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Tigers.
Dennis from McHenry, Illinois — 01:49 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Is the high school football crop in Ilinois a good one next year? Do you think the new staff will be able to do a better job with in state recruiting? Seems like we have slipped in this area.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:50 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Dennis,
I believe the 2011 class will be above average in the state. The new coaches will have a better chance as they get familiar with the high school coaches. But the key for Illinois is winning games. Go to a bowl in 2010 and the state's players will be reacquainted with Illinois.
Mark from Champaign, IL — 01:50 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob,
When do you think the coaching staff will be finalized? Will there be more hirings before then? I know we still need a secondary coach, asst. head coach, and recruiting coordinator. Will there be hirings to fill these positions or is there going to be some multitasking with the current staff? I have heard rumors that Koenning will also be the secondary coach, and Disch will be the special teams coordinator. Is there truth to this? Will DeAndre Smith also serve as recruiting coordinator?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:51 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Mark,
I think the vacancy will be filled next week. Vic Koenning will work with the secondary, but might get some help. I don't know that Illinois needs an assistant head coach. And the recruiting coordinator position will be determined later. I have heard about Dan Disch possibly moving to special teams, but I don't think that decision has been made. And I expect him to be back with the linebackers.
BW from Tyngsboro, MA — 01:52 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Bob: There is still some concern about this year's recruiting class falling short on talent, especially at positions of need. Have you learned anything in the past week to give some hope to die-hard Illini fans?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:53 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
BW,
The best thing I can tell you is that the coaches are still out there trying. And they are aiming at the highest available guys on their board. Remember, the new coaches had comfort areas they had recruited in the past. So changing coaches doesn't always mean an instant drop in recruiting.
Also, Illinois finished strong last year. That should give you some hope.
Stan from Lynwood, Illinois — 01:53 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
With national signing day approaching, do you expect any surprise commitments or is this really going to be a down year ?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:54 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Stan,
The class that signs won't have the national ranking of past Illinois seasons. But I don't think we'll know how it panned out until two or three years down the road. Illinois needs the players currently on hand to be the base of the 2010 season. The 2010 class will be able to help some, but maybe not as much as in the past.
Rich from Decatur, IL — 01:54 PM on Tue, 01/19/2010
Since the end of the FB season it seems Ron Zook has been almost invisible. Hear virtually nothing from him. Do you think this is part of the "new strategy"? Let the new co-ordinators do their thing and he stays in the background. If everything we hear is true, he is probably practicing for his new role as the team GM as opposed to the coach.
Welcome back to another football chat. Before we get to the questions, I've got a special deal for you. We've got two tickets for tonight's Illinois-Purdue basketball game that we want to give away to somebody on today's chat. They are in C Section, but to me there aren't many bad seats in that building. All you've got to do to have a chance to win is send me an email at asmussen@news-gazette.com in the next hour. Sports editor Jim Rossow will draw the winner. Just make sure you are able to use them and include your phone number. I will announce the winner at the end of the chat.
Now, off to the questions.
Mallory's replacement will be __________, and his responsibility will be __________.
Big Joe,
I'm going to leave the first part blank because there are going to be a bunch of candidates. Joe Cullen's name has come up and I think he is a possibility.
The job will depend on the hire. It could be another DL coach to help Keith Gilmore or a DB coach to help Vic Koenning. Or a special teams expert. I don't think it will be an offensive coach.
Bob,
The offense will be having a change in philosophy going to a more pro style with Petrino. What about the defense? Is Zook open to a change there? Or is it going to be more of the same loose coverage we have come to hate? Also, you promised to ask Guenther for a chat on HQ. When is that going to happen? Illini nation is waiting.
Bill,
About the chat: I promised to try to get him and we will make an effort to do that after signing day. Ron Guenther doesn't have a lot of media availability. What I might do, if this works, is ask for chat questions from everybody, take them to Ron Guenther and then have a tape-delayed chat.
I think there will be differences. But Ron Zook wouldn't hire somebody for defense who wanted to flip the thing upside down. I think you will see a more aggressive defense and I think you will see more pressure on the receivers. It might look different mostly because of the personnel, which figures to include Martez Wilson.
What is the overall mood of the staff? How are they feeling about the possible 2010 class? New coaches all settled?
Jimmy,
I think the new coaches are very excited to be here. And I think the are getting settled. Any time you have an influx of coaches, especially quality guys like Illinois has hired, I think it's a boost for everyone. They know there is plenty of work to do and they are playing catchup on the recruiting class.
We'll get a better sense for the recruiting class in the next few weeks. No matter what happens, they are going to tell you they are happy. That's what coaches do on signing day.
Bob:
What's your gut feeling on us holding to Corey Cooper?
Don,
It sure sounds like Corey Cooper has moved on, or at least is thinking strongly about moving on. So, I guess I'm going to have to say that he end up at Illinois.
In a weird twist, Famous Hulbert told me the other day that he thinks Corey will sign with Illinois.
I don't think the Illinois coaches have given up on him and I don't think it's over.
Will this team ever compete for a Big Ten title in this decade?
JE,
I will say yes. Illinois has won the Big Ten and been to the Sugar Bowl in the last decade, so I've got history on my side.
On the surface it looks like we s short safeties, defensive lineman, and possibly linebackers. With approximately 6 or 7 recruits left to fill the class do you feel the above areas will be addressed.
John,
I think those are priority areas for the final spots in the class. Defensive line seems especially important to this class, though the number of available prospects are dwindling.
Besides working on this year, the new staff members are also laying groundwork for 2011. Getting out there and being seen with Illinois shirts on is important to the staff.
Do we have a shot with Matt Milton? And what can you tell me about ANDRE dawson from IOWA?
Heath,
I believe Matt Milton has practiced with the Vols. He's there to stay.
Andre Dawson looks like a great prospect with a bunch of good offers. He had great numbers as a high school senior.
From a priority standpoint, running back wouldn't be very high for the Illini right now, but the school would obviously find a place for Dawson.
Some rumors out there that Justin Green is unhappy or looking to move on. Any truth that you know of to those rumors?
Jason,
I heard that about Justin Green immediately after the season, but also was told there was nothing to it. Having two former Louisville coaches on the staff has to help Justin's comfort level. And he is going to get a chance to play.
I'm eager to see him during the spring. To me, he offers a great changeup for Mikel Leshoure and Jason Ford.
Shouldn't the next staff member have ties to Chicago and/or its suburbs? Seems like Illinois is getting beat up in its own backyard. I can't see how that changes - especially with Mitchell gone.
Gregg,
That makes a lot of sense. I don't think it's mandatory because Dan Disch and DeAndre Smith have recruited the Chicago area. So has Ron Zook. But a Chicago guy joining the program would be helpful to the Illini.
The reason Illinois is getting beat up in Chicago is because of the lack of success on the field the last two years. If the team had gone to three bowl games in a row, I think Kyle Prater, Corey Cooper, etc. might all be on the way. To keep the kids in Illinois, the team has to win on the field. Period.
Hi Bob,
Do you feel that with the new coaches who have come on board that perhaps their strengths might be more of that of a teacher as opposed to super recruiters who bring in outstanding talent but do not develop it? I have felt since Coach Zook and his staff arrived here a few years ago that we had great recruiters but not great teachers who develop talent. When I look at my favorite pro team the Houston Texans since Kubiak got here there has been a great deal of growth in terms of player growth that is very evident. I would imagine that is how Iowa has survived and had such a great year this year. Your thoughts? Go ILLINI!
Thanks,
Tony L. Cain Baytown, TX.
Tony,
You make some very good points. I have heard very good things about Paul Petrino relative to his work as a receivers coach. And Vic Koenning is considered to be a very good teacher.
I think these guys are also very good as recruiters, but you are right that they seem to lean less on that and more on their abilities in practice and in game planning.
Iowa has recruited good players, but also done a good job developing those players.
What about special teams?
Will that area be improved next season? The punting was better, but the coverage and field goals were a struggle for a lot of the year.
Dan,
Special teams have been a sore spot for Illinois during Ron Zook's tenure. Because of that, I think there is a possibility a full-time special teams coach could emerge after the next hire.
I don't know what happened to Matt Eller last season. But Derek Dimke looked good after taking over. I think they will battle during the spring and both be given a chance during the season. But Illinois can't allow as many misses as it had last season.
Bob:
Thanks for sharing your insight..you are much appreciated!!Several things: (1)Are you going to be able to watch practice this year?(2) In talking with our new RB coach, do you feel he is going to try to work Green into the mix? (3) Can you give us your impression of the three early arrivals when you catch up to them? Thanks!
Jim,
I know I'll be able to watch spring practice and I'm hopeful that practice will be reopened, even on a limited basis, during the season. I think it helps my understanding of the team and allows me to provide you with better coverage. I promise not to complain if practice stays closed.
I didn't get into personnel too much with DeAndre Smith. I will ask him later about Justin.
I've talked to Chandler Whitmer and Trulon Henry a lot already. They are going to take advantage of the spring to try to get ready for the 2010 season. Obviously, Trulon Henry has a great chance to play right away. With Chandler, it will depend more on how quickly he is able to pick up the offense.
Got any predictions for Benn's combine numbers?
And just how much will a good performance there boost his stock after a disappointing 2009 season?
Ryan,
I've always felt that Arrelious would do great at the combine. He is working out in California, getting ready for it. I'll be stunned if he doesn't rank among the best receivers. Plus, he will do in the off-the-field stuff.
I think the combine helps. And I think the pro people will see that there are some reasons to explain his 2009 season, starting with health.
Kelvin Hayden and the Colts or Brandon Moore and the Jets - who are you taking Sunday afternoon?
R.P.,
I like the Colts in a close one. It's great to see Brandon Moore excelling as an offensive lineman. And I was happy to see Steve Weatherford back on the field. Kelvin, Brandon and Steve are the kinds of people you root for. They were great to work with at Illinois and haven't let pro success go to their heads.
do you know anything about recent commits other than what was provided in the stories about their commitments? i know theyre not the most highly regarded players..any chance theres a j leman in there
Jo,
I think there is always a chance for another J Leman or Jon Asamoah in the Illinois recruiting class. You would take all two- and three-star guys if you thought they would pan out like those two.
We are getting more insight into the current class. We will load you up during signing week and will have a Q&A with each of the signees.
Bob,
how much faith should a person put in recruiting rankings?
I know according to the "experts" the class wouldnt be ranked real high. But Zook is also known as one of the best recruiters around, so that has to mean something.
Ken,
I think the recruiting rankings are a starting point. If you have a class full of five-star guys, you are likely to do better than a team with a bunch of two-star guys. But you never know how the players will develop. I see the stars as a guide to how good the players are now, not as a projection of their futures. For every superstar who pans out, there are several who don't. The ratings don't measure heart, work ethic, team compatability, etc.
Hey Bob,
Two quick questions-
1) Any updates on Derrick McPhearson? Last I saw he was playing minor leauge baseball for the Brewers.
2) Will Zook keep his job if we 4-8 or 5-7 next year?
Al,
Derrick McPhearson was in the Brewers system last year and apparently was a free agent signee. He is also listed in some of the NFL draft stuff as a long shot receiver candidate.
I think Ron Zook's future depends on the look of the season, not necessarily the record. He could have a good 4-8 season (lots of close games) or a bad 5-7. I think 6-6 means an automatic return. Anything less than that is more of an open question.
Any analysis yet of the penalty problem??
Steve,
Great question. Next chance I talk to Ron Zook, I will get into that with him. A lot of it, in my opinion, was a combination of guys trying too hard (late hits) and not being focused on the moment (false starts). I'm sure that will be a point of emphasis during the spring.
The new DC said that his defense requires good safties. After last seasons secondary problems, that worries me some to hear that.
Can the secondary improve enough to let him run his defense? Or will he not be able to be as aggressive as he would like?
Tom,
I think Illinois will need to get some help at safety from the incoming class (Trulon Henry) and improved play from the returnees (Garrett Edwards, Walt Aikens). Vic Koenning is a secondary guy, which I think is good for the defense.
Hey Bob:
2 questions: 1)How big of an impact do you see Martez Wilson making next year and at what position? 2)Off the top of your head, about how much personnel is Missouri returning next year?
Chris,
I think Martez Wilson will return to linebacker. Which spot is unclear. But he will be one of the starters. If he's healthy, and I've heard that is going well, he could be the key to a turnaround. He's a tremendously gifted player.
Missouri's got 17 starters back, but loses two very good receivers (Alexander, Perry) and Sean Weatherspoon on defense. The Tigers looked bad against Navy in the bowl game, but should still be very good in 2010. The 2009 season was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Tigers.
Is the high school football crop in Ilinois a good one next year? Do you think the new staff will be able to do a better job with in state recruiting? Seems like we have slipped in this area.
Dennis,
I believe the 2011 class will be above average in the state. The new coaches will have a better chance as they get familiar with the high school coaches. But the key for Illinois is winning games. Go to a bowl in 2010 and the state's players will be reacquainted with Illinois.
Bob,
When do you think the coaching staff will be finalized? Will there be more hirings before then? I know we still need a secondary coach, asst. head coach, and recruiting coordinator. Will there be hirings to fill these positions or is there going to be some multitasking with the current staff? I have heard rumors that Koenning will also be the secondary coach, and Disch will be the special teams coordinator. Is there truth to this? Will DeAndre Smith also serve as recruiting coordinator?
Mark,
I think the vacancy will be filled next week. Vic Koenning will work with the secondary, but might get some help. I don't know that Illinois needs an assistant head coach. And the recruiting coordinator position will be determined later. I have heard about Dan Disch possibly moving to special teams, but I don't think that decision has been made. And I expect him to be back with the linebackers.
Bob: There is still some concern about this year's recruiting class falling short on talent, especially at positions of need. Have you learned anything in the past week to give some hope to die-hard Illini fans?
BW,
The best thing I can tell you is that the coaches are still out there trying. And they are aiming at the highest available guys on their board. Remember, the new coaches had comfort areas they had recruited in the past. So changing coaches doesn't always mean an instant drop in recruiting.
Also, Illinois finished strong last year. That should give you some hope.
With national signing day approaching, do you expect any surprise commitments or is this really going to be a down year ?
Stan,
The class that signs won't have the national ranking of past Illinois seasons. But I don't think we'll know how it panned out until two or three years down the road. Illinois needs the players currently on hand to be the base of the 2010 season. The 2010 class will be able to help some, but maybe not as much as in the past.
Since the end of the FB season it seems Ron Zook has been almost invisible. Hear virtually nothing from him. Do you think this is part of the "new strategy"? Let the new co-ordinators do their thing and he stays in the background. If everything we hear is true, he is probably practicing for his new role as the team GM as opposed to the coach.