Talk with Illinois football beat writer Bob Asmussen
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:00 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Welcome back to another chat. Hope you are all getting to enjoy the Winter Olympics. For some reason, I'm a big fan.
Chris Johnston from Ottawa, IL — 01:00 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Hello,
I read on another message board that Petrino and Brohm previously recruited and offered Jacob Charest when they were at Louisville. Is that true?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:02 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Chris,
I don't know that they offered him, but I know there was some familiarity there. From what I understand, Jacob and the other Illinois quarterbacks are all very happy with the new offensive coaches. I'm curious what they will have to say a week or two into spring practice as they learn the offense.
ZookHatesIlliniFans from Champaign, IL — 01:04 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob-
I have read in the papers and on message boards that the coordinators are going to run things themselves and Coach Zook won't have much of a hand in the x's & o's anymore. Is this true? I have a hard time believing that Coach Zook's pride will allow him to give up any authority when talking stops and the coaching starts. Though it is possible, have you seen any tangible evidence during Coach Zook's time at Illinois that indicates the staff shakeup and the new coach's autonomy will be anything other than a difficult transition for a very stubborn Coach Zook?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:05 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
ZookHatesIlliniFans,
I've written in these chats before that he is acting differently since the end of the season. He was very upset about the way the season went and was willing to do what's necessary to make those changes. I believe that's true. And I think we all can makes changes, especially when the alternative is not being able to do a job you love.
Brian from Urbana, IL — 01:06 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob,
how do you see the TE position working out? Seems like a position of need in the new offense
To bad CJ changed and Graham left
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:10 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Brian,
The offense requires tight ends. More than one. And with different roles. I don't know that it will all be settled in the spring, with just Zach Becker, London Davis and Justin Lattimore available. There is help on the way in the summer, but I think it will be difficult for a freshman to play a major role at tight end early in the season. Possible, but difficult.
While C.J. Fiedorowicz is a great prospect, I don't know that he was the type of tight end that works best with this offense. Of course, a great athlete always is wanted. I would like to have seen Hubie Graham in Paul Petrino's offense. But he had to do what he thought was best for his future.
Dennis from Champaign, IL — 01:11 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
what about FB? Who will all get time there?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:13 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Dennis,
Like with tight end, I think the answer at fullback comes later rather than sooner. The only fullback on campus is Greg Fuller, unless somebody gets moved to the position. The coaches won't make any drastic changes until the spring. Incoming freshman Jay Prosch seems to have a good chance to play early. That's what the coaches told him and I believe he will work hard during the summer to get ready. You know those giant fullbacks Wisconsin throws at people? That could be Prosch.
Matt from Urbana, IL — 01:14 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
how big of a impact has Petrino been in his brothers success?
His brother has been very succcessful over time, so that can hopefully mean good things ahead.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:16 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Matt,
They are from the same coaching tree, which starts with their dad. Based on what I've heard of Bobby Petrino's reaction, he didn't want his brother to leave and was surprised when he did. If it had been, "Go ahead, take the Illinois job," from Bobby, then I think folks here would have been worried. Folks in Arkansas praise Paul Petrino for his ability to get the most out of players. And isn't that what coaching is really all about?
John M. from Washington, D.C. — 01:17 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
One thing I am confused about is when is Ron Zook's current contract up? If it's more than a year from now why did RG give him such a large extension based on just one good year?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:20 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
John,
Ron Zook has four years remaining on his contract. He received an extension, without a raise, after the 2008 season. It's pretty standard operating procedure in Division I-A football. Your coach has to have several years on his deal or rival schools will use that against you.
Frank from Champaign, IL — 01:20 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob,
the spring schedule has been released. Does it/will it include a scrimmage in Chicago or somewhere else? Do you think they should.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:22 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Frank,
While the word hasn't come out officially yet, I'm guessing they won't have a Chicago scrimmage. While the events have been very good for the fans involved, it has basically taken away a day of work for the team. When you have six new coaches, every second counts. So, I think they will put the Chicago scrimmage on a one-year hiatus. I will let you know as soon as I get the official word.
Jim from St. Louis area, Mis-ery — 01:22 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob: Great chats!! Everyone is frustrated with the Illini's record for 08 and 09.It's easy to see how we got here. When we had Mendenhall, Juice was really effective as a runner. When Mendenhall left early, Juice was not as effective as a runner. We had a quality stable of receivers, with a QB that struggled to complete the 6 to 12 yd. pass and move the sticks.From comments, it appears that the new OC favors the run...and you don't need a rocket arm in the pro style offense.Wouldn't this set-up favor Scheelhaase if he has as much accuracy as Charest?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:25 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Jim,
I believe all three quarterbacks on campus have a chance to be the starter. And I do agree that Nathan has an advantage in mobility. But Jacob can move a bit too, and seems to have that knack of avoiding trouble. But I think accuracy will be a primary concern for the coaches. Jacob's game experience is hard to ignore.
JPH from St. Louis, MO — 01:26 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
What is up with Patrick Nixon-Youman? He was one of those recruits I thought would contribute right away, an then he had the setback with the injury. Do you foresee him contributing to the defense next season?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:28 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
JPH,
Patrick had a bad leg injury his first year and has a long recovery. It sounds like he is getting better, but he needs to regain the speed he had before he got hurt. I agree with you that he looked like a guy who could help and I don't believe the coaches have given up on him. His health will determine 2010 playing time.
Kramer116 from Chicago, IL — 01:29 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Love the chats Bob! So I have a few questions regarding player health and potential break out players this year on defense...
How are Patrick Youman-Nixon and Tommie Hopkins and Miami Thomas recovering and any chance they see the field this year?
Who you see emerging potentially out of Ashante Williams, Trulon Henry, etc for that 5th DB/LB spot?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:35 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Kramer,
Tommie Hopkins and Miami Thomas spent the fall recovering from injuries. I will check on them next time I talk to Ron Zook, which should be later this week.
Trulon Henry will be on the field. The question is whether or not that is at linebacker or at the hybrid position. His job will be determined in the spring.
I would think one of the young linebackers would have a chance to add to his role this spring. And I think Akeem Spence could be an important player on the defensive line.
BW from Tyngsboro, MA — 01:35 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob:
Have you learned anymore about the defensive scheme and who the starting 11 might be by position?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:36 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
BW,
I haven't had a chance to sit down with Vic Koenning, but hope to later this week. While he won't be able to pick the 11 starters, he will be able to tell me about the requirements for each position. Certainly, Clay Nurse, Corey Liuget, Martez Wilson, Ian Thomas, Tavon Wilson and Terry Hawthorne will be key players.
Scott from Indianapolis, Indiana — 01:37 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Just exactly what did Zook think he was going to accomplish by putting some of the blame of his 2008 and 2009 failures on the fans?!?!? More butts in the seats? When you start to blame fans for your own failures, you are admitting that you have very few, if any, answers. What say you?
Lefty from San Diego, CA — 01:37 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob, thanks for the chats. First, beware of the same person posting over and over again today under different names and asking about the Sun Times piece. Second, do you agree with Zook's comments? I think he was right. The angry anti-Zook crowd wants him to fail and is pulling out all the stops.
corn from champaign, il — 01:37 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Everyone is asking why Zook has sold the fans short. He needs to be fired. Do not blame the Money people and the fans.
rich from bement, il — 01:37 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Bob,
Do you think Guenther needs to put a muzzle on Zook. Those statements in the Sun Times article were beyond stupid.
Peter from Daytona, FL — 01:37 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
So negativity on part of fan boards, by spectators and by media (sportscasters) dissuade potential recruits significantly?
tom from bloomington, IL — 01:38 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Why would Zook make statements criticizing fans and boosters? Those are the folks that pay his salary. I think any recruiting troubles are related more to program performance than complaining fans. Illinois' fan base is not unique when the team underachieves.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:45 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Scott, Lefty, Corn, Rich, Peter and Tom,
I knew this would be a hot subject in this week's chat. First, I wasn't as overwhelmed by the comments as other seemed to be. I don't think he was taking shots at the fans as much as he was pointing out some of the things he observed that happened during the season. I would like to know more specifics about what he was talking about. Was it fans in the stands or on the Internet? My read on Illinois fans, like those at most other schools, is that they want you to be successful. No harm in that. So, I agree, that ridiculing the fans is not the prudent thing to do. I just question how much of it was directed at a very small group of people.
I wish I had been a part of the interview to hear it in context. And I believe that Zook has taken the blame in several instances after the season, so I don't think he is trying to deflect blame.
In my dealings with Zook, he has always been pretty blunt about things. That's great for a reporter, but sometimes creates a negative reaction from the fans. Bruce Weber is also very blunt. So is Bill Self.
Groundhogday from Pullman, WA — 01:45 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
There has been some confusion about the "Bandit" DE/OLB pass rushing position. Tate suggested that Martez Wilson would be competing for that role, something that seems to make sense. But now Willhite has said that Tez will NOT play the Bandit. If not, who will? And where will Tez be positioned in this defense?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:47 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Groundhogday,
Great question. One that needs to be answered by Vic Koennning, probably after or during spring practices. He hasn't worked with Martez Wilson yet. So, he will have to see where his talents work best. Ian Thomas did solid work at middle linebacker, which gives Illinois some flexibility with Martez. I would think you would put in a position where his athleticism gets used the best. And maybe that's at bandit. Maybe it's not. (By the way, I can't wait to use the term Bandit in my stories).
Cory from Carbondale , So. ILL — 01:48 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
bob, whats the deal with josh brent?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:49 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Cory,
He's at Parkland College trying to get his academic work in order. I'd say it's 50-50 he returns to the team in 2010. If he does come back, it will be a sign that he's made some positive choices. I don't know what happens to him if he isn't with the team next season. I know he's got a lot of people rooting for him and the defense is very different without him. Not in a good way.
Shaun White from Vancouver, Canada — 01:49 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
How many players from last years team will be at the combine?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:50 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Shaun,
Arrelious Benn and Michael Hoomanawanui will participate. Jon Asamoah was invited, but won't participate because of a shoulder injury. He is expected to be OK for pro timing day at Illinois, which is March 17.
Tim Tebow from Gainesville , Florida — 01:50 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Can Justin Green win the starting running back job this season. I want to see him start so we can add some speed to the offense.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:51 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Tim,
I think Mikel Leshoure will be the starting tailback, but that Justin Green will have a significant role. I think the coaches will want to get him the ball in a bunch of different ways.
Eric from Danville, IL. — 01:51 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Since he redshirted we haven't seen or heard much of Bud Golden. He was fairly highly thought of coming out of high school. Do you think he has a place in Illinois' offense
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:52 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Eric,
From what I understand, Bud had a good first year. Redshirting made sense with all of the guys in front of him. I think he will have a chance to work his way onto the field. The new coaches like running backs and feel good about the group on hand.
Stan from Lynwood, Illinois — 01:52 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
If the Illini are going to be running a Pro-Style offense why are they offering spread type QB"s? Also were there any recruits of note who attended Illinois on Junior Day?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:53 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Stan,
I think they are looking for variety in their quarterback search. Paul Petrino has said he can run his offense with a drop-back guy or a guy who can move. I think they are very open-minded about it. Plus, no harm in having a talented athlete on hand.
Benjamin from Champaign, IL — 01:53 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Mr. Asmussen, thanks for the chats. I read that Kraig Appleton was suspended from Wisconsin. Got any details? Thanks.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:54 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Benjamin,
He violated team rules and was one of three suspended. Given the off-the-field questions about him in high school, this isn't a big surprise. You wonder what would have happened had he come to Illinois? I don't think the coaches really wanted him on the team because of the concern that he would become a distraction. Same thing might have happened at Wisconsin.
Jim from Waukegan, Illinois — 01:55 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Do you honestly believe Coach Zook's comments about negative recruiting from inside Illinois? Ilinois really suffered not getting commits from there own backyard last year. I believe only Whitmer was a top 10 Illinois commit. Can we turn that around this year? Seems like such a good state school should do better than that, especially in Chicago and its suburbs
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:58 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Jim,
While I think recruits want to hear good things from the fans, I don't believe anybody picks a college based on those comments. Positive or negative, you have to figure the fans have an agenda. They want their school to get the best players.
I think Illinois can improve in the recruiting rankings by doing one thing: win games. That's all it is. That's all it always will be.
James Bond 007 from Everywhere, Confusion — 01:58 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Mr. A,
Do you think Zook's comments about boosters and fans causing recruiting problems was just plain dumb? He is already treading on thin ice with Illini Nation now. Why stir the pot more? Do you think he needs to apologize for this? Boosters and fans pay his salary. He needs to keep his mouth shut and win some games!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:59 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
James,
You are right on your final point: wins will ease all of the other concerns.
I want to hear more about the interview. How much did he talk about the fans? Did he dwell on it or was it a flip comment? The timing is odd, but it could have just been when Herb Gould had time to do the interview.
Dennis from McHenry, Illinois — 02:00 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
In this early contact period with next years class, can the Illini make enough inroads to get some early commits and get the ball rolling towards a good class. This staff seems very energetic and outgoing from all I've heard. Also is Craig Drummond still at Ole Miss? Did not seem him on their roster.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 02:03 PM on Tue, 02/23/2010
Dennis,
I think the coaches will hit it hard in the spring. It's unfortunate for Illinois that Ron Zook can no longer be on the road during the spring period, but Paul Petrino and the rest of the new coaches will represent the school well.
You are right, Craig Drummond is no longer on the Mississippi roster. Must be something with the name Kraig/Craig.
Welcome back to another chat. Hope you are all getting to enjoy the Winter Olympics. For some reason, I'm a big fan.
Hello,
I read on another message board that Petrino and Brohm previously recruited and offered Jacob Charest when they were at Louisville. Is that true?
Chris,
I don't know that they offered him, but I know there was some familiarity there. From what I understand, Jacob and the other Illinois quarterbacks are all very happy with the new offensive coaches. I'm curious what they will have to say a week or two into spring practice as they learn the offense.
Bob-
I have read in the papers and on message boards that the coordinators are going to run things themselves and Coach Zook won't have much of a hand in the x's & o's anymore. Is this true? I have a hard time believing that Coach Zook's pride will allow him to give up any authority when talking stops and the coaching starts. Though it is possible, have you seen any tangible evidence during Coach Zook's time at Illinois that indicates the staff shakeup and the new coach's autonomy will be anything other than a difficult transition for a very stubborn Coach Zook?
ZookHatesIlliniFans,
I've written in these chats before that he is acting differently since the end of the season. He was very upset about the way the season went and was willing to do what's necessary to make those changes. I believe that's true. And I think we all can makes changes, especially when the alternative is not being able to do a job you love.
Bob,
how do you see the TE position working out? Seems like a position of need in the new offense
To bad CJ changed and Graham left
Brian,
The offense requires tight ends. More than one. And with different roles. I don't know that it will all be settled in the spring, with just Zach Becker, London Davis and Justin Lattimore available. There is help on the way in the summer, but I think it will be difficult for a freshman to play a major role at tight end early in the season. Possible, but difficult.
While C.J. Fiedorowicz is a great prospect, I don't know that he was the type of tight end that works best with this offense. Of course, a great athlete always is wanted. I would like to have seen Hubie Graham in Paul Petrino's offense. But he had to do what he thought was best for his future.
what about FB? Who will all get time there?
Dennis,
Like with tight end, I think the answer at fullback comes later rather than sooner. The only fullback on campus is Greg Fuller, unless somebody gets moved to the position. The coaches won't make any drastic changes until the spring. Incoming freshman Jay Prosch seems to have a good chance to play early. That's what the coaches told him and I believe he will work hard during the summer to get ready. You know those giant fullbacks Wisconsin throws at people? That could be Prosch.
how big of a impact has Petrino been in his brothers success?
His brother has been very succcessful over time, so that can hopefully mean good things ahead.
Matt,
They are from the same coaching tree, which starts with their dad. Based on what I've heard of Bobby Petrino's reaction, he didn't want his brother to leave and was surprised when he did. If it had been, "Go ahead, take the Illinois job," from Bobby, then I think folks here would have been worried. Folks in Arkansas praise Paul Petrino for his ability to get the most out of players. And isn't that what coaching is really all about?
One thing I am confused about is when is Ron Zook's current contract up? If it's more than a year from now why did RG give him such a large extension based on just one good year?
John,
Ron Zook has four years remaining on his contract. He received an extension, without a raise, after the 2008 season. It's pretty standard operating procedure in Division I-A football. Your coach has to have several years on his deal or rival schools will use that against you.
Bob,
the spring schedule has been released. Does it/will it include a scrimmage in Chicago or somewhere else? Do you think they should.
Frank,
While the word hasn't come out officially yet, I'm guessing they won't have a Chicago scrimmage. While the events have been very good for the fans involved, it has basically taken away a day of work for the team. When you have six new coaches, every second counts. So, I think they will put the Chicago scrimmage on a one-year hiatus. I will let you know as soon as I get the official word.
Bob: Great chats!! Everyone is frustrated with the Illini's record for 08 and 09.It's easy to see how we got here. When we had Mendenhall, Juice was really effective as a runner. When Mendenhall left early, Juice was not as effective as a runner. We had a quality stable of receivers, with a QB that struggled to complete the 6 to 12 yd. pass and move the sticks.From comments, it appears that the new OC favors the run...and you don't need a rocket arm in the pro style offense.Wouldn't this set-up favor Scheelhaase if he has as much accuracy as Charest?
Jim,
I believe all three quarterbacks on campus have a chance to be the starter. And I do agree that Nathan has an advantage in mobility. But Jacob can move a bit too, and seems to have that knack of avoiding trouble. But I think accuracy will be a primary concern for the coaches. Jacob's game experience is hard to ignore.
What is up with Patrick Nixon-Youman? He was one of those recruits I thought would contribute right away, an then he had the setback with the injury. Do you foresee him contributing to the defense next season?
JPH,
Patrick had a bad leg injury his first year and has a long recovery. It sounds like he is getting better, but he needs to regain the speed he had before he got hurt. I agree with you that he looked like a guy who could help and I don't believe the coaches have given up on him. His health will determine 2010 playing time.
Love the chats Bob! So I have a few questions regarding player health and potential break out players this year on defense...
How are Patrick Youman-Nixon and Tommie Hopkins and Miami Thomas recovering and any chance they see the field this year?
Who you see emerging potentially out of Ashante Williams, Trulon Henry, etc for that 5th DB/LB spot?
Kramer,
Tommie Hopkins and Miami Thomas spent the fall recovering from injuries. I will check on them next time I talk to Ron Zook, which should be later this week.
Trulon Henry will be on the field. The question is whether or not that is at linebacker or at the hybrid position. His job will be determined in the spring.
I would think one of the young linebackers would have a chance to add to his role this spring. And I think Akeem Spence could be an important player on the defensive line.
Bob:
Have you learned anymore about the defensive scheme and who the starting 11 might be by position?
BW,
I haven't had a chance to sit down with Vic Koenning, but hope to later this week. While he won't be able to pick the 11 starters, he will be able to tell me about the requirements for each position. Certainly, Clay Nurse, Corey Liuget, Martez Wilson, Ian Thomas, Tavon Wilson and Terry Hawthorne will be key players.
Just exactly what did Zook think he was going to accomplish by putting some of the blame of his 2008 and 2009 failures on the fans?!?!? More butts in the seats? When you start to blame fans for your own failures, you are admitting that you have very few, if any, answers. What say you?
Bob, thanks for the chats. First, beware of the same person posting over and over again today under different names and asking about the Sun Times piece. Second, do you agree with Zook's comments? I think he was right. The angry anti-Zook crowd wants him to fail and is pulling out all the stops.
Everyone is asking why Zook has sold the fans short. He needs to be fired. Do not blame the Money people and the fans.
Bob,
Do you think Guenther needs to put a muzzle on Zook. Those statements in the Sun Times article were beyond stupid.
So negativity on part of fan boards, by spectators and by media (sportscasters) dissuade potential recruits significantly?
Why would Zook make statements criticizing fans and boosters? Those are the folks that pay his salary. I think any recruiting troubles are related more to program performance than complaining fans. Illinois' fan base is not unique when the team underachieves.
Scott, Lefty, Corn, Rich, Peter and Tom,
I knew this would be a hot subject in this week's chat. First, I wasn't as overwhelmed by the comments as other seemed to be. I don't think he was taking shots at the fans as much as he was pointing out some of the things he observed that happened during the season. I would like to know more specifics about what he was talking about. Was it fans in the stands or on the Internet? My read on Illinois fans, like those at most other schools, is that they want you to be successful. No harm in that. So, I agree, that ridiculing the fans is not the prudent thing to do. I just question how much of it was directed at a very small group of people.
I wish I had been a part of the interview to hear it in context. And I believe that Zook has taken the blame in several instances after the season, so I don't think he is trying to deflect blame.
In my dealings with Zook, he has always been pretty blunt about things. That's great for a reporter, but sometimes creates a negative reaction from the fans. Bruce Weber is also very blunt. So is Bill Self.
There has been some confusion about the "Bandit" DE/OLB pass rushing position. Tate suggested that Martez Wilson would be competing for that role, something that seems to make sense. But now Willhite has said that Tez will NOT play the Bandit. If not, who will? And where will Tez be positioned in this defense?
Groundhogday,
Great question. One that needs to be answered by Vic Koennning, probably after or during spring practices. He hasn't worked with Martez Wilson yet. So, he will have to see where his talents work best. Ian Thomas did solid work at middle linebacker, which gives Illinois some flexibility with Martez. I would think you would put in a position where his athleticism gets used the best. And maybe that's at bandit. Maybe it's not. (By the way, I can't wait to use the term Bandit in my stories).
bob, whats the deal with josh brent?
Cory,
He's at Parkland College trying to get his academic work in order. I'd say it's 50-50 he returns to the team in 2010. If he does come back, it will be a sign that he's made some positive choices. I don't know what happens to him if he isn't with the team next season. I know he's got a lot of people rooting for him and the defense is very different without him. Not in a good way.
How many players from last years team will be at the combine?
Shaun,
Arrelious Benn and Michael Hoomanawanui will participate. Jon Asamoah was invited, but won't participate because of a shoulder injury. He is expected to be OK for pro timing day at Illinois, which is March 17.
Can Justin Green win the starting running back job this season. I want to see him start so we can add some speed to the offense.
Tim,
I think Mikel Leshoure will be the starting tailback, but that Justin Green will have a significant role. I think the coaches will want to get him the ball in a bunch of different ways.
Since he redshirted we haven't seen or heard much of Bud Golden. He was fairly highly thought of coming out of high school. Do you think he has a place in Illinois' offense
Eric,
From what I understand, Bud had a good first year. Redshirting made sense with all of the guys in front of him. I think he will have a chance to work his way onto the field. The new coaches like running backs and feel good about the group on hand.
If the Illini are going to be running a Pro-Style offense why are they offering spread type QB"s? Also were there any recruits of note who attended Illinois on Junior Day?
Stan,
I think they are looking for variety in their quarterback search. Paul Petrino has said he can run his offense with a drop-back guy or a guy who can move. I think they are very open-minded about it. Plus, no harm in having a talented athlete on hand.
Mr. Asmussen, thanks for the chats. I read that Kraig Appleton was suspended from Wisconsin. Got any details? Thanks.
Benjamin,
He violated team rules and was one of three suspended. Given the off-the-field questions about him in high school, this isn't a big surprise. You wonder what would have happened had he come to Illinois? I don't think the coaches really wanted him on the team because of the concern that he would become a distraction. Same thing might have happened at Wisconsin.
Do you honestly believe Coach Zook's comments about negative recruiting from inside Illinois? Ilinois really suffered not getting commits from there own backyard last year. I believe only Whitmer was a top 10 Illinois commit. Can we turn that around this year? Seems like such a good state school should do better than that, especially in Chicago and its suburbs
Jim,
While I think recruits want to hear good things from the fans, I don't believe anybody picks a college based on those comments. Positive or negative, you have to figure the fans have an agenda. They want their school to get the best players.
I think Illinois can improve in the recruiting rankings by doing one thing: win games. That's all it is. That's all it always will be.
Mr. A,
Do you think Zook's comments about boosters and fans causing recruiting problems was just plain dumb? He is already treading on thin ice with Illini Nation now. Why stir the pot more? Do you think he needs to apologize for this? Boosters and fans pay his salary. He needs to keep his mouth shut and win some games!
James,
You are right on your final point: wins will ease all of the other concerns.
I want to hear more about the interview. How much did he talk about the fans? Did he dwell on it or was it a flip comment? The timing is odd, but it could have just been when Herb Gould had time to do the interview.
In this early contact period with next years class, can the Illini make enough inroads to get some early commits and get the ball rolling towards a good class. This staff seems very energetic and outgoing from all I've heard. Also is Craig Drummond still at Ole Miss? Did not seem him on their roster.
Dennis,
I think the coaches will hit it hard in the spring. It's unfortunate for Illinois that Ron Zook can no longer be on the road during the spring period, but Paul Petrino and the rest of the new coaches will represent the school well.
You are right, Craig Drummond is no longer on the Mississippi roster. Must be something with the name Kraig/Craig.