Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:03 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Welcome back to another chat. More great questions on the way, so I'll get to them ASAP.
Andrew from Champaign, IL — 01:05 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Hey Bob,
Any chance Petrino can get Ryan Mallett to Champaign to play for the U? Just kidding. In talking to Petrino has he given any indication who he likes at the QB position for the fall? I know he needs to see them all in the spring but i wouild like to know what he is thinking.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:09 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Andrew,
Ryan Mallett would be a good addition to the team. He made a smart move to Arkansas.
I was asking Coach Petrino a string of questions, then I slipped in "Who's the starting quarterback?" He laughed, which I thought was a good sign.
He doesn't have film on anyone other than Jacob Charest. And I would think Jacob would start the spring at the top of the depth chart based on experience, but all of the guys will get an equal change. Don't assume that Nathan Scheelhaase being more of a running quarterback means he can't be the starter. The new staff will adapt the offense to the skills of the quarterback. That's the right approach.
I think the winter and spring will determined a lot about the position. Those guys are doubtless spending a lot of time working on their own and studying film.
Jarrod from neisville, TN — 01:09 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
you think fayson can break out this year? I mean really break out, top one or two WR in big ten break out? Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:10 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Jarrod,
I don't know if he can be one of the best receivers in the conference, but he can certainly lead the team in receptions. And that would be an important step for the Illinois offense. I think A.J. Jenkins will also see the ball a lot.
Adam from Greensboro, NC — 01:10 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
U play Zook for a second..tomorrow is opening day..who gets the start between whitmer and charest?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:12 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Adam,
Nathan Scheelhaase is also in the mix.
Right now, I'd go with Jacob Charest. Based solely on his experience. I will give you a much better informed answer after seeing the team in the spring.
John from Sterling, IL — 01:12 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Is Illinois just not going to sign a cornerback this year? What do you think about trying Lankford there? Is Hopkins going to compete for a spot this year? Are you worried about cornerback next year, or in the future? Break it down for me!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
John,
From what I understand, Ean Days might be a defensive back in college. So, that would be a corner.
Terry Hawthorne has one spot locked up for the next three years. Illinois has to find one more guy from Tavon Wilson, Ashante Williams, Joelil Thrash. If they find the right combination, the position is in decent shape into 2012. I think Hawthorne can be a star at cornerback.
Gregg from Pittsburgh, Pa — 01:15 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Is Hawthorne staying at corner or moving to WR?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Gregg,
I think he stays at cornerback. The position has much greater need. And I think they can work him some at receiver too.
Ken from Urbana, IL — 01:15 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
are you going to have a signing day chat again this year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:16 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Ken,
Yes, I will have a signing day chat. It will run all day, starting probably at about 8 a.m. or so. We'll be loading up Q&As with each of the signees.
joe from chicago, il — 01:16 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
regarding the other CB, wont miami thomas be that guy? i think between he and hawthorne, illinois could be in real good shape there the next 3 years (maybe less if one or both leaves)
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:17 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Joe,
Thanks. I forgot about Miami Thomas. If he's healthy, he could have a major impact on the team and allow Illinois some flexibility at the other secondary spots.
Tim from Urbana, IL — 01:17 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Bob,
I believe that in your list in the paper, there are 16 commitments, including Cooper. Is everyone besides Cooper pretty solid?
That leaves how many more scholarships to fill? Still in the low 20's?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:18 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Tim,
I would guess the other players are solid. Things can always change, but the guys we have talked to seem very excited about playing for Illinois.
I think the final number will be in the 20-22 range. And I think they can go a bit higher if it means getting a star player.
Adam from greensboro, NC — 01:19 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
what's your take on koenning? i've heard a lot about petrino...does koenning seem to have his head on straight? could u tell if he was a dunce?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:20 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Adam,
I haven't had a chance to talk to Coach Koenning one-on-one. I've had that chance a couple of times with Paul Petrino. I will do a story on Coach Koenning very similar to the one we did with Coach Petrino, but probably not until after signing day.
He seems like a sharp guy and he has done good work throughout his career. I'm not about to call anybody a dunce, other than myself.
Illini1973 from Belleville, ILL...ini — 01:21 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Are we recruiting a place kicker or punter? If not, what happens if Santella goes down?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:22 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Illini1973,
I don't believe a scholarship will go to a kicker/punter. But I think there will be walk-on opportunities at both positions.
I think Derek Dimke could work at punter if something happened to Santella. Steve Hull would be another option.
Don from Springfield, Il — 01:22 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Hey Bob:
I've read a couple different rumors that Zook hired former Notre Dame D. Coordinator Corwin Brown as our DB's coach, is that official? If so, could Brown help with our recruitment of Corey Cooper? Also, any potential Defensive line commits coming soon?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:23 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Don,
I don't believe Corwin Brown will join the Illinois staff. I think I remember he was on the Notre Dame staff that made accusations of illegal recruiting with Arrelious Benn and Martez Wilson. I don't see that hatchet being buried any time soon.
Brian from Urbana, IL — 01:23 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Do you think that Zook can pull off a stunner on signing day? Maybe sign someone not expected?
Any canidates?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:25 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Brian,
I think that is always a possibility. The funny thing is, what we might not consider stunners could be big recruits to the staff. Two stars and three stars don't mean much to the coaches. They want to see guys who can get it done on the field or have the potential to in the future.
But Ron Zook has shown the ability to land highly touted prospects on the final day. I promise to have a list of some of those guys next Tuesday.
Adam from greensboro, NC — 01:25 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
seems like a slow day for questions so i'll for the hat trick..what's your favorite illini football game of all time? worst? nevermind..u could pick any of last years games..that being said, have u ever seen illini football at such a low point? even in the turner years?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:27 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Adam,
The Illinois-Ohio State game in 2007 is one. Also, the Illinois-Michigan game in 1999. And the 1994 Illinois-Penn State game. I was on the sidelines for the final minutes of all three of those games and it really felt like it was a big-time situation.
I think Illinois was in a much worse situation at the start of the Turner era and going into his final season, coming off a 1-11 season. There is much more talent on the team today than in 2004.
Tom from Urbana, IL — 01:28 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Bob,
anything new on the coaching search? I am guessing that we will hear more after signing day.
Any chance that they bring in a special teams coach?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:29 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Tom,
I don't think the hire will happen until after signing day. I think Ron Zook's got plenty on his plate right now with recruiting. Why rush it?
I think the new coach might work with special teams or somewhere on the defensive side. With Vic Koenning in charge of the defense, maybe he gets some help with the defensive backs.
Andrew from Charleston, IL — 01:29 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Bob, besides Whitmer which recruit that has recently committed could have the biggest impact? Also, what's the feeling around the team? I will say adding new coordinators have refreshed my outlook for new season. Thanks!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:30 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Andrew,
Well, if Corey Cooper sticks with Illinois, he is starting the opener. Which ought to be a selling point to him.
I think the new coaches have been good for the mood of the football office. I sense a different feeling in the building from the players to the coaches to the staff.
Ron Zook from Urbana, IL — 01:31 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Who runs a faster 40? u, rossow or klee?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:31 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Ron Zook,
Rossow runs faster. Klee texts faster. I talk faster.
Matt from Rock Falls, IL — 01:31 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Is Tommie Hopkins going to be ready to play in the spring? I know he had the physical problems, but I also heard he may have had some academic problems as well.
Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:32 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Matt,
I haven't check on Tommy, but I will today or Wednesday. Send me an email and I'll get you the information. I haven't heard anything about academic issues, however.
He is recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg suffered last year.
Andy from Ames, Iowa — 01:33 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Hey Bob,
Wonder if there is anything new on Cooper. Great job on the chat's, I enjoy reading them.
Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:34 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Andy,
We haven't talked to Corey, but hope to sometime in the next few days. I think he wants to get it settled and I don't think he'll wait until signing day. Illinois remains in the mix.
Shief from Champaign, IL — 01:34 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Recruiting has been picking up and we are getting some good looking 2 and 3 star athletes that may have flown under some people radar. What are your thoughts on some of the new recruits and will some of them prove the rating system wrong?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:35 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Shief,
There are so many variables when it comes to evaluating recruits. Will the guys from Georgia and Florida miss their homes and the heat? Will the players do the necessary work in the spring and summer? Will academics be an issue? I'd guess there will be a few to several from this group that have nice careers and that there will be a few to several who don't pan out.
Marcus from Monument, Colorado — 01:36 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Bob,
Have you been given an indication whether or not you will be allowed to see practice in the 2010 season?
Why have they not allowed this the last 2 yrs. The record shows it did not help them.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:38 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Marcus,
I haven't been given an indication, but I'm hopeful. Pointing out the records with a closed practice doesn't help. I'm going to make a pitch to reopen practices and hope for the best. I do think we are able to give you better coverage with the practices open. It's a trust issue for the coaches, who don't want information out there that might hurt them. I don't blame them for that thought. But I also know I'm not going to diagram plays on HQ. Or reveal sensitive information.
Alex from Summerfield, NC — 01:38 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
is it just me or does loren tate hate participaing in chats? u seeem happy and nice while he seems kinda cantankerous
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:40 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Alex,
Loren has a radio show that lasts until 11 and a Bruce Weber teleconference that starts at 11:30. He wishes he could give longer answers, but wants to get to as many questions and he wants.
And, yes, I am happy to do the chats.
Brian from Atlanta, GA — 01:40 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
When you look at the commit list who gets you the most excited?
thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:42 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Brian,
I'll go with Ryan Lankford, who has a chance to get on the field early. His dad was a very good player for the Dolphins and the sons or relatives of NFL players have done well at Illinois (Aaron Moorehead, Luke Butkus, Mark Butkus).
dissapointed from honeywar, de — 01:42 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
With so much hype surrounding the new offense and defense, will we all be set up for another dissappointed year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:44 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Disappointed,
I think when you change your system, you give yourself a chance to make great progress in a hurry. If you have the right people on hand. That's the question that will have to be answered during the spring.
Coming off a 3-9 season, I don't think the Illinois program is in much of a position to disappoint. That happened in 2009. Anything more than three wins should be considered progress.
J-Ran from Champaign, IL — 01:44 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Bob, report is that Tim Tebow fumbled six of his first 11 snaps yesterday in Senior Bowl practice. Do you agree with me when I say that any GM who drafts "The Chosen One," should be fired? "Football Mesiah" is not an NFL player. No way. Don't give me the, "he's a winner," argument, either. That means nothing. Ken Dorsey was a winner too. Thoughts?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:46 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
J-Ran,
I have never been a Tebow fan, though I did hear a great story about him that made think better of him as a person. I thought he was fakey off the field, but don't believe that anymore.
I don't think he will ever be a star quarterback in the NFL. But he might make a roster and play a little bit. Too many flaws to his game that will be exposed. He is not Peyton Manning. Or Cooper Manning.
TK from Tampa, Florida — 01:46 PM on Tue, 01/26/2010
Does the new DC have enough talent on that side of the ball to work with for next season? On paper, it would seem that we can field a capable defense, but I've thought that before, and been disappointed in the lack of progress.
Having one coordinator has to be a step in the right direction finally, does the new DC have a personality that can get these guys motivated as a unit?
Thanks
Welcome back to another chat. More great questions on the way, so I'll get to them ASAP.
Hey Bob,
Any chance Petrino can get Ryan Mallett to Champaign to play for the U? Just kidding. In talking to Petrino has he given any indication who he likes at the QB position for the fall? I know he needs to see them all in the spring but i wouild like to know what he is thinking.
Andrew,
Ryan Mallett would be a good addition to the team. He made a smart move to Arkansas.
I was asking Coach Petrino a string of questions, then I slipped in "Who's the starting quarterback?" He laughed, which I thought was a good sign.
He doesn't have film on anyone other than Jacob Charest. And I would think Jacob would start the spring at the top of the depth chart based on experience, but all of the guys will get an equal change. Don't assume that Nathan Scheelhaase being more of a running quarterback means he can't be the starter. The new staff will adapt the offense to the skills of the quarterback. That's the right approach.
I think the winter and spring will determined a lot about the position. Those guys are doubtless spending a lot of time working on their own and studying film.
you think fayson can break out this year? I mean really break out, top one or two WR in big ten break out? Thanks
Jarrod,
I don't know if he can be one of the best receivers in the conference, but he can certainly lead the team in receptions. And that would be an important step for the Illinois offense. I think A.J. Jenkins will also see the ball a lot.
U play Zook for a second..tomorrow is opening day..who gets the start between whitmer and charest?
Adam,
Nathan Scheelhaase is also in the mix.
Right now, I'd go with Jacob Charest. Based solely on his experience. I will give you a much better informed answer after seeing the team in the spring.
Is Illinois just not going to sign a cornerback this year? What do you think about trying Lankford there? Is Hopkins going to compete for a spot this year? Are you worried about cornerback next year, or in the future? Break it down for me!
John,
From what I understand, Ean Days might be a defensive back in college. So, that would be a corner.
Terry Hawthorne has one spot locked up for the next three years. Illinois has to find one more guy from Tavon Wilson, Ashante Williams, Joelil Thrash. If they find the right combination, the position is in decent shape into 2012. I think Hawthorne can be a star at cornerback.
Is Hawthorne staying at corner or moving to WR?
Gregg,
I think he stays at cornerback. The position has much greater need. And I think they can work him some at receiver too.
are you going to have a signing day chat again this year?
Ken,
Yes, I will have a signing day chat. It will run all day, starting probably at about 8 a.m. or so. We'll be loading up Q&As with each of the signees.
regarding the other CB, wont miami thomas be that guy? i think between he and hawthorne, illinois could be in real good shape there the next 3 years (maybe less if one or both leaves)
Joe,
Thanks. I forgot about Miami Thomas. If he's healthy, he could have a major impact on the team and allow Illinois some flexibility at the other secondary spots.
Bob,
I believe that in your list in the paper, there are 16 commitments, including Cooper. Is everyone besides Cooper pretty solid?
That leaves how many more scholarships to fill? Still in the low 20's?
Tim,
I would guess the other players are solid. Things can always change, but the guys we have talked to seem very excited about playing for Illinois.
I think the final number will be in the 20-22 range. And I think they can go a bit higher if it means getting a star player.
what's your take on koenning? i've heard a lot about petrino...does koenning seem to have his head on straight? could u tell if he was a dunce?
Adam,
I haven't had a chance to talk to Coach Koenning one-on-one. I've had that chance a couple of times with Paul Petrino. I will do a story on Coach Koenning very similar to the one we did with Coach Petrino, but probably not until after signing day.
He seems like a sharp guy and he has done good work throughout his career. I'm not about to call anybody a dunce, other than myself.
Are we recruiting a place kicker or punter? If not, what happens if Santella goes down?
Illini1973,
I don't believe a scholarship will go to a kicker/punter. But I think there will be walk-on opportunities at both positions.
I think Derek Dimke could work at punter if something happened to Santella. Steve Hull would be another option.
Hey Bob:
I've read a couple different rumors that Zook hired former Notre Dame D. Coordinator Corwin Brown as our DB's coach, is that official? If so, could Brown help with our recruitment of Corey Cooper? Also, any potential Defensive line commits coming soon?
Don,
I don't believe Corwin Brown will join the Illinois staff. I think I remember he was on the Notre Dame staff that made accusations of illegal recruiting with Arrelious Benn and Martez Wilson. I don't see that hatchet being buried any time soon.
Do you think that Zook can pull off a stunner on signing day? Maybe sign someone not expected?
Any canidates?
Brian,
I think that is always a possibility. The funny thing is, what we might not consider stunners could be big recruits to the staff. Two stars and three stars don't mean much to the coaches. They want to see guys who can get it done on the field or have the potential to in the future.
But Ron Zook has shown the ability to land highly touted prospects on the final day. I promise to have a list of some of those guys next Tuesday.
seems like a slow day for questions so i'll for the hat trick..what's your favorite illini football game of all time? worst? nevermind..u could pick any of last years games..that being said, have u ever seen illini football at such a low point? even in the turner years?
Adam,
The Illinois-Ohio State game in 2007 is one. Also, the Illinois-Michigan game in 1999. And the 1994 Illinois-Penn State game. I was on the sidelines for the final minutes of all three of those games and it really felt like it was a big-time situation.
I think Illinois was in a much worse situation at the start of the Turner era and going into his final season, coming off a 1-11 season. There is much more talent on the team today than in 2004.
Bob,
anything new on the coaching search? I am guessing that we will hear more after signing day.
Any chance that they bring in a special teams coach?
Tom,
I don't think the hire will happen until after signing day. I think Ron Zook's got plenty on his plate right now with recruiting. Why rush it?
I think the new coach might work with special teams or somewhere on the defensive side. With Vic Koenning in charge of the defense, maybe he gets some help with the defensive backs.
Bob, besides Whitmer which recruit that has recently committed could have the biggest impact? Also, what's the feeling around the team? I will say adding new coordinators have refreshed my outlook for new season. Thanks!
Andrew,
Well, if Corey Cooper sticks with Illinois, he is starting the opener. Which ought to be a selling point to him.
I think the new coaches have been good for the mood of the football office. I sense a different feeling in the building from the players to the coaches to the staff.
Who runs a faster 40? u, rossow or klee?
Ron Zook,
Rossow runs faster. Klee texts faster. I talk faster.
Is Tommie Hopkins going to be ready to play in the spring? I know he had the physical problems, but I also heard he may have had some academic problems as well.
Thanks
Matt,
I haven't check on Tommy, but I will today or Wednesday. Send me an email and I'll get you the information. I haven't heard anything about academic issues, however.
He is recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg suffered last year.
Hey Bob,
Wonder if there is anything new on Cooper. Great job on the chat's, I enjoy reading them.
Thanks
Andy,
We haven't talked to Corey, but hope to sometime in the next few days. I think he wants to get it settled and I don't think he'll wait until signing day. Illinois remains in the mix.
Recruiting has been picking up and we are getting some good looking 2 and 3 star athletes that may have flown under some people radar. What are your thoughts on some of the new recruits and will some of them prove the rating system wrong?
Shief,
There are so many variables when it comes to evaluating recruits. Will the guys from Georgia and Florida miss their homes and the heat? Will the players do the necessary work in the spring and summer? Will academics be an issue? I'd guess there will be a few to several from this group that have nice careers and that there will be a few to several who don't pan out.
Bob,
Have you been given an indication whether or not you will be allowed to see practice in the 2010 season?
Why have they not allowed this the last 2 yrs. The record shows it did not help them.
Marcus,
I haven't been given an indication, but I'm hopeful. Pointing out the records with a closed practice doesn't help. I'm going to make a pitch to reopen practices and hope for the best. I do think we are able to give you better coverage with the practices open. It's a trust issue for the coaches, who don't want information out there that might hurt them. I don't blame them for that thought. But I also know I'm not going to diagram plays on HQ. Or reveal sensitive information.
is it just me or does loren tate hate participaing in chats? u seeem happy and nice while he seems kinda cantankerous
Alex,
Loren has a radio show that lasts until 11 and a Bruce Weber teleconference that starts at 11:30. He wishes he could give longer answers, but wants to get to as many questions and he wants.
And, yes, I am happy to do the chats.
When you look at the commit list who gets you the most excited?
thanks
Brian,
I'll go with Ryan Lankford, who has a chance to get on the field early. His dad was a very good player for the Dolphins and the sons or relatives of NFL players have done well at Illinois (Aaron Moorehead, Luke Butkus, Mark Butkus).
With so much hype surrounding the new offense and defense, will we all be set up for another dissappointed year?
Disappointed,
I think when you change your system, you give yourself a chance to make great progress in a hurry. If you have the right people on hand. That's the question that will have to be answered during the spring.
Coming off a 3-9 season, I don't think the Illinois program is in much of a position to disappoint. That happened in 2009. Anything more than three wins should be considered progress.
Bob, report is that Tim Tebow fumbled six of his first 11 snaps yesterday in Senior Bowl practice. Do you agree with me when I say that any GM who drafts "The Chosen One," should be fired? "Football Mesiah" is not an NFL player. No way. Don't give me the, "he's a winner," argument, either. That means nothing. Ken Dorsey was a winner too. Thoughts?
J-Ran,
I have never been a Tebow fan, though I did hear a great story about him that made think better of him as a person. I thought he was fakey off the field, but don't believe that anymore.
I don't think he will ever be a star quarterback in the NFL. But he might make a roster and play a little bit. Too many flaws to his game that will be exposed. He is not Peyton Manning. Or Cooper Manning.
Does the new DC have enough talent on that side of the ball to work with for next season? On paper, it would seem that we can field a capable defense, but I've thought that before, and been disappointed in the lack of progress.
Having one coordinator has to be a step in the right direction finally, does the new DC have a personality that can get these guys motivated as a unit?
Thanks