Ask beat writer Bob Asmussen about the Illinois football team
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 12:59 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Welcome back to another chat. We're going to go for an hour and we have a boatload of questions. I will get to as many as I can.
Don't forget, we will have a postgame chat on Saturday.
Sam from Chicago, IL — 12:59 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
How does the offensive line look, as a unit? Isn't our best chance against Missouri to run the ball, use it to set up the pass and keep Missouri's offense off the field?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:01 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Sam,
I think it looks solid. There are three starters back. Hugh Thornton is listed at one starting guard spot ahead of Jack Cornell, which isn't really a surprise.
I think you are right about Illinois' best chance against Missouri. The offense has to control the clock. I think you will see a lot of Mikel Leshoure and Jason Ford runs and a lot of short passes.
Will Allen from Davenport, Iowa — 01:01 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Where is Miami Thomas? With Hawthorne out I thought he'd be next in line. Is he hurt, or is it just rust?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:03 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Will Allen,
Miami is listed second at one cornerback spot behind Justin Green. Ron Zook said today that Thomas is starting to play better. The biggest thing for Thomas, Zook said, was getting through Camp Rantoul. The guy has had horrible injury luck and isn't the player he looked to be as a freshman. But he can still help. How much? I don't think we'll know that until we see if he can keep up with speedy receivers. In practice, he has been OK.
Dave C. from Champaign, IL. — 01:03 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob,
Will a depth chart be released,and if so when?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:04 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Dave C.,
The depth chart is out today. I ran who I thought would be the starters in today's paper/IlliniHQ and had it all right. There's only so much they can do with limited depth in the secondary and on the offensive line.
Gino Panozzo from Caledonia, Mi. — 01:04 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
What is the status of Miami Thomas? I may have missed a recent report on him. I also missed the report on Zach Becker's injury. When may he be return. Has it been discussed that there is a possibility of Terry H. will be back before the 4th game? Besides Bud Golden, who is another RB backup? Will Justin Green help if needed?
"GO ILLINI"
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:06 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Gino,
Miami Thomas will be ready to go against Missouri. I'm guessing he plays quite a bit.
Zach Becker is out 4-6 weeks, just like Hawthorne. The hope from the coaches is that they will both be back for Ohio State on Oct. 2. That seems reasonable if they don't have any setbacks.
Besides Bud Golden, Troy Pollard is working at tailback. Justin Green now belongs to the defense and won't be returning to offense this season. If ever.
Steve from St. Charles, MO — 01:06 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob, in all the write-ups about the depth at cornerback and safety, I haven't seen mention of Miami Thomas, Joelil Thrash, Tommie Hopkins and Ashante Williams. What's their status? Is the defensive backfield depth so thin a player on offense can switch to defense and jump near the top of the depth chart?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:08 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Steve,
Miami Thomas is on the second team. Joelil Thrash is listed No. 2 at strong safety behind Tavon Wilson. But I think Wilson will play the entire game.
Tommie Hopkins has left the program. Ashante Williams is the backup to Nate Bussey at SAM linebacker.
You said it perfect: the depth is so thin that a player can jump from the offense into the starting secondary. Justin Green is proof of that.
Russ from Decatur, IL — 01:08 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Probably more of a statement than a question. I am very disappointed in the way the University handled Walt Aikens. He took care of his legal punishment and I can't understand why the University took so long to make their decision. It was too bad he went through Camp Rantoul and then was told the first day of classes that he could not stay. Why did they have to wait so long? Your thoughts on their handling of him.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:10 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Russ,
I wish I had all of the details that were made available to the school. But on the surface, it looks like he got a bad deal. Of course, he could have avoided it by not getting involved in a crime. But once he realized his mistake, it seems like he did everything he could to correct it.
This wasn't a football decision. If it was, he would have been allowed back on the team.
I'm trying to find out where Aikens is going to play this season. I will let you know when I find out.
Concerned for the season opener from Chicago, Illinois — 01:10 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
From what I have heard, Patrick Nixon has been doing pretty well. Do you think he should deserve a chance to play before Justin Green and the other corners since he has been the back up for Terry Hawthorne all of camp?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:11 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Concerned,
Patrick Nixon seemed to play well during the part of training camp we were allowed to see. Hard to tell what has happened since the team got back to C-U. I think the coaches will play the guy who best gives them a chance to win. And once Justin Green learns the position, he will have a great upside. The problem for Illinois, of course, is the lack of experience against a passing team like Missouri.
Dennis from McHenry, Illinois — 01:11 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Is Paul Petrino head coaching material? He hsa both pro and college experience so it seems like this would be the logical next step. How are his skills as an organizer and recruiter. I know head coach equates to more than x's and o's but do you think he has what it takes?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:13 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Dennis,
I think Paul Petrino will be a college head coach, probably very soon. His dad was a coach and his brother is a coach. He's got it in his blood. He has trained to take over a program.
I think he will be very good when he gets his own team. He seems very organized and obviously has the on-field skills. He'll also do well with the media, which is an important part of the job.
It's not a question of if with Petrino, it's when.
BW from Tyngsboro, MA — 01:13 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob: Can we possibly mount a pass rush that maybe keeps the game close? Or even reasonable. Is staying within 3 touchdowns of Missouri asking too much?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:15 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
BW,
I think Vic Koenning wants to try to make Blaine Gabbert feel uncomfortable. That's a major goal. But he knows based on experience that it won't be easy. I think you will see some funky stuff.
Illinois can stay within three touchdowns. And it can lose by six touchdowns.
Ralph Colton from Chicago, IL — 01:16 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
People need to calm down on the blogs. Stop being so negative about this football team. Miizzo isn't a world beater. They aren't USC or even Ohio State. This team IMHO has a heart and will come out fighting. There are no ego's on this team and I Believe they want to get better and start off the season with a win. This is a winnable game. Illinois doesn'thave to throw for 400 yds in order to win. Mizzo's defense is not going to scare anyone this year. We have two big prime time backs with that can carry this team to victory. Even if they line up with 9 or 10 in the box. You have a DC that has faced Gabbert last year and knows how to attack him. We recruitted well and now it's time to see thse guys play. I know it's hard to believe with everything going on but just believe we have enough to win. We would be crying if we didn't recruit who we have, but now that we have them, we don't trust that they can play. It's truly crazy. The talent on the team has been upgraded and so have the coaches. Petrino is going to dial up the run and run play action off that. Koening is going to dial up the blitz and mix in zone. This isn't the bend but don't brake defense. Also Mizzo has issues of their onw with legal problems and they lost some key guys. Fans just need to calm down and root for your team. So many fans want to be critical but yet I don't see them linning up and playing this game. They are entitled to their opinion but don't go over board. These players read just like we do and if there is too negative talk going around, players will play that way. Every team we face has issues to deal with and they aren't what they were a year ago except for maybe OSU. But we can win and i'm going on record that we will get 7-9 wins this year and shock our own fanbase. It won't be a shock to me. This team is good. They just have to play with confidence and swagger. What do you think? Sorry for the long comment.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:17 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Ralph,
That is the longest chat question in history. I love it. I can't believe it will let you go that long. Thanks for the comments.
We'll find out Saturday at about noon if you are right.
Terry from Davenport, Iowa — 01:17 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob...when I've heard you live lately, I sense a tone of pessimism as you picture Illinois taking on Mizzou with a decimated defense. Is that your feeling?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:19 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Terry,
I don't think doom is the right word. I think the reality of the situation is a difficult one for Illinois. A week before playing a passing team, it loses two critical defensive backs. That's a problem, one that won't be ignored by Missouri.
But, I will say Illinois can win this game. And it can lose by 40. It might come down to how the Illinois offense plays against the Missouri defense. And how many turnovers the teams commit. Illinois has to win that battle if it has any hope of winning the game.
Gary from McHenry, Illinois — 01:19 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
With guys like Fuller, Hopkins, Aikens, and London Davis leaving the program recently, along with Leon Hill and Lendell Buckner earler, how many do you see Illinois taking in the next recruiting class. This one seems very light so far in the way of defensive commits.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:20 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Gary,
There are certainly spots opening up. I think you might see Illinois with a full class. A lot depends on what happens during the season. The more success on the field, the more guys Illinois signs, in my opinion.
Shaun from Centralia, Illinois — 01:21 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
How are the converted DBs looking, and why is Fuller no longer listed on the roster?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:22 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Shaun,
Greg Fuller is no longer with the team.
Unfortunately, we aren't allowed in practice, so I haven't been able to see Justin Green, Jack Ramsey and Steve Hull on defense. The first time I see them will be the first time you see them. The reports are good, but that's what you'd expect.
Braski from Champaign, Il — 01:22 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob,
The poll HQ ran on Guenther shows 71% want him to leave now or at the end of his contract. I think Illini nation have had about enough of his leadership. Whats your take on the results? I know Tate continues to drink the Cool Aid.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:25 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Braski,
I don't think Ron Guenther will be forced out by public opinion. I think he will make the call on his own.
The one thing I have a difficult time imagining is Ron Guenther hiring another football coach. If it gets to that point, you might see him turn over the job to somebody else. Of course, I think Ron Zook is safe into 2011 barring a complete collapse this season. And I'm talking 1-11 or 2-10.
Fans are angry about the football team's lack of success during Ron Guenther's tenure. Hard to blame them for that. But I don't think the answer is automatically "fire the AD."
Laurie Jamieson from Bellevue, Washington — 01:25 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob, With all of the recent injuries to the secondary, doesn't that mean our pass rush from the defensive line needs to be in 'A' form? How good is the D-line is this area? Also, regarding the BTN, will games be shown back to back all day OR will be they double-up, so to speak. Just want to check if we plan a football game watch for our alumni out here that we don't turn on the BTN and find another BT game going on at the same time. Many thanks - sure hope we can steal one from Mizzou!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:28 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Laurie,
The pass rush and the secondary work hand in hand. The better the coverage, the more it helps the rush. The better the rush, the more it helps the secondary. I think Corey Liuget and Clay Nurse can have big seasons pressure-wise. And they need to if the Illinois defense hopes to be improved.
The Big Ten Network often runs games in the same television window. But usually cable systems have a runover channel or two to show all of the games. On DirecTV, you get every game. I think that's the same for DISH.
Email me if you have any other BTN questions at asmussen@news-gazette.com.
Have fun.
Steve from Ft. Lauderdale, FL — 01:29 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Do you think Tavon Wilson will make an impact at safety on Saturday?
Have you gotten a chance to see any of the new guys in the secondary? I'm going to be honest, I'm a little nervous about Bellamy at corner. Do you think Ramsey will replace him by week 2?
Thanks
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:30 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Steve,
I think Tavon Wilson is talented enough to play any spot in the secondary. Safety makes some sense because of his knowledge of the defense. I think he will be very good at his new spot.
I haven't seen any of the new guys in the secondary. And I think Jack Ramsey will get some time on Saturday, but I think Travon Bellamy stays ahead of him into the near future.
bags from mt. zion, il — 01:30 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Wilson or Bellamy or someone else? Who will start at Safety opposite Henry? I have never been impressed by Bellamy in a role outside of the nickel position, so I am hoping it isn't him.
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:31 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bags,
Tavon Wilson will start. My guess is he doesn't leave the field for a single Missouri offensive play.
Jake from Effingham, Il — 01:31 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob,
With all of these injuries that the Illini have been suffering lately does this change your outlook on the season somewhat? When did London Davis leave the team? Somtime back or just recently? Thanks as always for the very informative chats!
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:32 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Jake,
The defense took a big hit, one that will have an impact against Missouri. But I would have always picked Missouri to win the game. Do the injuries cost Illinois against Northern Illinois? That's a better question.
London Davis left recently, I believe. Not being in practice makes it hard to keep track of everybody.
Thanks, as always, for the kind words.
Joshua from ofallon, missouri — 01:32 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Do you feel Justin Green will answer the call this Sat vs Mizzou?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:34 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Joshua,
I think Justin will try. And that's about all anybody can ask.
He's a great athlete and one of the two or three fastest guys on the team. And he's a great kid. Old beyond his years. With a great support system at home.
Ultimately, the move will be better for him and for the team. In the short term, it's a challenge.
ILLINI fan in the LOU from St louis, MO — 01:35 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Where can we find the depth chart? Can you provide a link? I can not find it anywhere on the fightingillini.com
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:36 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Don from Taylorville, Il — 01:37 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Now that our defensive secondary has sustained multiple hits, will the main goal of the defense on Saturday be to limit big plays, try to keep them out of the endzone, run multiple D-line stunts since we probably are not going to be able to blitz as much? Also, now that London Davis has transferred, how has Justin Lattimore and Eddie Vilunas looked in camp so far?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:38 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Don,
I think there will still be blitzing, but maybe not to the extent Vic Koenning planned. He doesn't want Blaine Gabbert to sit back and pick him apart. That happened to his Kansas State defense last year.
Justin Lattimore is second at tight end behind Evan Wilson and Viliunas is third. Ron Zook said the converted quarterback has played well, which might have contributed to London Davis leaving.
Mark from Champaign, IL — 01:39 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Hey Bob,
Will Zach Becker be ready and starting at FB on Saturday? Also, I see you have Evan Wilson as the projected starting TE. I like this a lot because Wilson can be a big receiving weapon at TE. What are the chances that Justin Lattimore also sees legitimate playing time there also? I like Lattimore's athleticism a lot, and I think he can also be a big receiving threat at TE also. With London Davis gone, how is that looking for Russell Ellington's playing time on the offensive side of the ball?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:40 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Mark,
Zack Becker is out 4 to 6 weeks with a foot injury. The coaches hope to have him back for Ohio State.
Justin Lattimore will be on the field against Missouri, maybe a lot.
Russell Ellington is trying to come back from an injury. He missed all of Camp Rantoul and I don't think you will see him on the field any time soon.
Illini1973 from Scott AFB, ILL...ini — 01:40 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
I'm afraid the missery game can be very ugly for us with 8 'in the box
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:41 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Illini1973,
A couple of reasons that won't happen. First, the coaches like Nathan Scheelhaase best as the starter. Second, they are happy with Eddie McGee at receiver. But I do think Eddie might get a snap or two behind center in a special package.
Dr. Phil from Orland Park, IL — 01:42 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Bob, keep up the good work of informing us fans about the team. Well, my son talked me into going to the Mizzou game this weekend for the third year in the row. Why should I take this punishment? What should I be watching for in this game? Who should I follow on offense and defense for the Illini? What can you tell me to give me hope that this game will be close?
Bob Asmussen (moderator) — 01:43 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Dr. Phil,
There's nothing better than college football on a Saturday. Not even close. Not even the Braves in the World Series.
What to watch is pretty easy: No. 2s. The one on offense will have the ball all of the time and the one on defense should be near the ball all of the time.
I don't know if I can give you hope, but I will remind you that Nathan Scheelhaase is 1-0 at the Edward Jones Dome. Nobody else on his team can say that.
Bob from Wheaton, IL — 01:44 PM on Tue, 08/31/2010
Last year Mizzou hit on alot of quick passes which prevented the defense from applying pressure on Gabbert. It might be wise to get tight on their recievers to prevent these type passes. With the recent secondary injuries does the defense have the capability to do this?
Welcome back to another chat. We're going to go for an hour and we have a boatload of questions. I will get to as many as I can.
Don't forget, we will have a postgame chat on Saturday.
How does the offensive line look, as a unit? Isn't our best chance against Missouri to run the ball, use it to set up the pass and keep Missouri's offense off the field?
Sam,
I think it looks solid. There are three starters back. Hugh Thornton is listed at one starting guard spot ahead of Jack Cornell, which isn't really a surprise.
I think you are right about Illinois' best chance against Missouri. The offense has to control the clock. I think you will see a lot of Mikel Leshoure and Jason Ford runs and a lot of short passes.
Where is Miami Thomas? With Hawthorne out I thought he'd be next in line. Is he hurt, or is it just rust?
Will Allen,
Miami is listed second at one cornerback spot behind Justin Green. Ron Zook said today that Thomas is starting to play better. The biggest thing for Thomas, Zook said, was getting through Camp Rantoul. The guy has had horrible injury luck and isn't the player he looked to be as a freshman. But he can still help. How much? I don't think we'll know that until we see if he can keep up with speedy receivers. In practice, he has been OK.
Bob,
Will a depth chart be released,and if so when?
Dave C.,
The depth chart is out today. I ran who I thought would be the starters in today's paper/IlliniHQ and had it all right. There's only so much they can do with limited depth in the secondary and on the offensive line.
What is the status of Miami Thomas? I may have missed a recent report on him. I also missed the report on Zach Becker's injury. When may he be return. Has it been discussed that there is a possibility of Terry H. will be back before the 4th game? Besides Bud Golden, who is another RB backup? Will Justin Green help if needed?
"GO ILLINI"
Gino,
Miami Thomas will be ready to go against Missouri. I'm guessing he plays quite a bit.
Zach Becker is out 4-6 weeks, just like Hawthorne. The hope from the coaches is that they will both be back for Ohio State on Oct. 2. That seems reasonable if they don't have any setbacks.
Besides Bud Golden, Troy Pollard is working at tailback. Justin Green now belongs to the defense and won't be returning to offense this season. If ever.
Bob, in all the write-ups about the depth at cornerback and safety, I haven't seen mention of Miami Thomas, Joelil Thrash, Tommie Hopkins and Ashante Williams. What's their status? Is the defensive backfield depth so thin a player on offense can switch to defense and jump near the top of the depth chart?
Steve,
Miami Thomas is on the second team. Joelil Thrash is listed No. 2 at strong safety behind Tavon Wilson. But I think Wilson will play the entire game.
Tommie Hopkins has left the program. Ashante Williams is the backup to Nate Bussey at SAM linebacker.
You said it perfect: the depth is so thin that a player can jump from the offense into the starting secondary. Justin Green is proof of that.
Probably more of a statement than a question. I am very disappointed in the way the University handled Walt Aikens. He took care of his legal punishment and I can't understand why the University took so long to make their decision. It was too bad he went through Camp Rantoul and then was told the first day of classes that he could not stay. Why did they have to wait so long? Your thoughts on their handling of him.
Russ,
I wish I had all of the details that were made available to the school. But on the surface, it looks like he got a bad deal. Of course, he could have avoided it by not getting involved in a crime. But once he realized his mistake, it seems like he did everything he could to correct it.
This wasn't a football decision. If it was, he would have been allowed back on the team.
I'm trying to find out where Aikens is going to play this season. I will let you know when I find out.
From what I have heard, Patrick Nixon has been doing pretty well. Do you think he should deserve a chance to play before Justin Green and the other corners since he has been the back up for Terry Hawthorne all of camp?
Concerned,
Patrick Nixon seemed to play well during the part of training camp we were allowed to see. Hard to tell what has happened since the team got back to C-U. I think the coaches will play the guy who best gives them a chance to win. And once Justin Green learns the position, he will have a great upside. The problem for Illinois, of course, is the lack of experience against a passing team like Missouri.
Is Paul Petrino head coaching material? He hsa both pro and college experience so it seems like this would be the logical next step. How are his skills as an organizer and recruiter. I know head coach equates to more than x's and o's but do you think he has what it takes?
Dennis,
I think Paul Petrino will be a college head coach, probably very soon. His dad was a coach and his brother is a coach. He's got it in his blood. He has trained to take over a program.
I think he will be very good when he gets his own team. He seems very organized and obviously has the on-field skills. He'll also do well with the media, which is an important part of the job.
It's not a question of if with Petrino, it's when.
Bob: Can we possibly mount a pass rush that maybe keeps the game close? Or even reasonable. Is staying within 3 touchdowns of Missouri asking too much?
BW,
I think Vic Koenning wants to try to make Blaine Gabbert feel uncomfortable. That's a major goal. But he knows based on experience that it won't be easy. I think you will see some funky stuff.
Illinois can stay within three touchdowns. And it can lose by six touchdowns.
People need to calm down on the blogs. Stop being so negative about this football team. Miizzo isn't a world beater. They aren't USC or even Ohio State. This team IMHO has a heart and will come out fighting. There are no ego's on this team and I Believe they want to get better and start off the season with a win. This is a winnable game. Illinois doesn'thave to throw for 400 yds in order to win. Mizzo's defense is not going to scare anyone this year. We have two big prime time backs with that can carry this team to victory. Even if they line up with 9 or 10 in the box. You have a DC that has faced Gabbert last year and knows how to attack him. We recruitted well and now it's time to see thse guys play. I know it's hard to believe with everything going on but just believe we have enough to win. We would be crying if we didn't recruit who we have, but now that we have them, we don't trust that they can play. It's truly crazy. The talent on the team has been upgraded and so have the coaches. Petrino is going to dial up the run and run play action off that. Koening is going to dial up the blitz and mix in zone. This isn't the bend but don't brake defense. Also Mizzo has issues of their onw with legal problems and they lost some key guys. Fans just need to calm down and root for your team. So many fans want to be critical but yet I don't see them linning up and playing this game. They are entitled to their opinion but don't go over board. These players read just like we do and if there is too negative talk going around, players will play that way. Every team we face has issues to deal with and they aren't what they were a year ago except for maybe OSU. But we can win and i'm going on record that we will get 7-9 wins this year and shock our own fanbase. It won't be a shock to me. This team is good. They just have to play with confidence and swagger. What do you think? Sorry for the long comment.
Ralph,
That is the longest chat question in history. I love it. I can't believe it will let you go that long. Thanks for the comments.
We'll find out Saturday at about noon if you are right.
Bob...when I've heard you live lately, I sense a tone of pessimism as you picture Illinois taking on Mizzou with a decimated defense. Is that your feeling?
Terry,
I don't think doom is the right word. I think the reality of the situation is a difficult one for Illinois. A week before playing a passing team, it loses two critical defensive backs. That's a problem, one that won't be ignored by Missouri.
But, I will say Illinois can win this game. And it can lose by 40. It might come down to how the Illinois offense plays against the Missouri defense. And how many turnovers the teams commit. Illinois has to win that battle if it has any hope of winning the game.
With guys like Fuller, Hopkins, Aikens, and London Davis leaving the program recently, along with Leon Hill and Lendell Buckner earler, how many do you see Illinois taking in the next recruiting class. This one seems very light so far in the way of defensive commits.
Gary,
There are certainly spots opening up. I think you might see Illinois with a full class. A lot depends on what happens during the season. The more success on the field, the more guys Illinois signs, in my opinion.
How are the converted DBs looking, and why is Fuller no longer listed on the roster?
Shaun,
Greg Fuller is no longer with the team.
Unfortunately, we aren't allowed in practice, so I haven't been able to see Justin Green, Jack Ramsey and Steve Hull on defense. The first time I see them will be the first time you see them. The reports are good, but that's what you'd expect.
Bob,
The poll HQ ran on Guenther shows 71% want him to leave now or at the end of his contract. I think Illini nation have had about enough of his leadership. Whats your take on the results? I know Tate continues to drink the Cool Aid.
Braski,
I don't think Ron Guenther will be forced out by public opinion. I think he will make the call on his own.
The one thing I have a difficult time imagining is Ron Guenther hiring another football coach. If it gets to that point, you might see him turn over the job to somebody else. Of course, I think Ron Zook is safe into 2011 barring a complete collapse this season. And I'm talking 1-11 or 2-10.
Fans are angry about the football team's lack of success during Ron Guenther's tenure. Hard to blame them for that. But I don't think the answer is automatically "fire the AD."
Bob, With all of the recent injuries to the secondary, doesn't that mean our pass rush from the defensive line needs to be in 'A' form? How good is the D-line is this area? Also, regarding the BTN, will games be shown back to back all day OR will be they double-up, so to speak. Just want to check if we plan a football game watch for our alumni out here that we don't turn on the BTN and find another BT game going on at the same time. Many thanks - sure hope we can steal one from Mizzou!
Laurie,
The pass rush and the secondary work hand in hand. The better the coverage, the more it helps the rush. The better the rush, the more it helps the secondary. I think Corey Liuget and Clay Nurse can have big seasons pressure-wise. And they need to if the Illinois defense hopes to be improved.
The Big Ten Network often runs games in the same television window. But usually cable systems have a runover channel or two to show all of the games. On DirecTV, you get every game. I think that's the same for DISH.
Email me if you have any other BTN questions at asmussen@news-gazette.com.
Have fun.
Do you think Tavon Wilson will make an impact at safety on Saturday?
Have you gotten a chance to see any of the new guys in the secondary? I'm going to be honest, I'm a little nervous about Bellamy at corner. Do you think Ramsey will replace him by week 2?
Thanks
Steve,
I think Tavon Wilson is talented enough to play any spot in the secondary. Safety makes some sense because of his knowledge of the defense. I think he will be very good at his new spot.
I haven't seen any of the new guys in the secondary. And I think Jack Ramsey will get some time on Saturday, but I think Travon Bellamy stays ahead of him into the near future.
Wilson or Bellamy or someone else? Who will start at Safety opposite Henry? I have never been impressed by Bellamy in a role outside of the nickel position, so I am hoping it isn't him.
Bags,
Tavon Wilson will start. My guess is he doesn't leave the field for a single Missouri offensive play.
Bob,
With all of these injuries that the Illini have been suffering lately does this change your outlook on the season somewhat? When did London Davis leave the team? Somtime back or just recently? Thanks as always for the very informative chats!
Jake,
The defense took a big hit, one that will have an impact against Missouri. But I would have always picked Missouri to win the game. Do the injuries cost Illinois against Northern Illinois? That's a better question.
London Davis left recently, I believe. Not being in practice makes it hard to keep track of everybody.
Thanks, as always, for the kind words.
Do you feel Justin Green will answer the call this Sat vs Mizzou?
Joshua,
I think Justin will try. And that's about all anybody can ask.
He's a great athlete and one of the two or three fastest guys on the team. And he's a great kid. Old beyond his years. With a great support system at home.
Ultimately, the move will be better for him and for the team. In the short term, it's a challenge.
Where can we find the depth chart? Can you provide a link? I can not find it anywhere on the fightingillini.com
Illini,
Here is what we have today:
http://illinihq.com/news/football/2010/08/30/bobs_depth_chart
Now that our defensive secondary has sustained multiple hits, will the main goal of the defense on Saturday be to limit big plays, try to keep them out of the endzone, run multiple D-line stunts since we probably are not going to be able to blitz as much? Also, now that London Davis has transferred, how has Justin Lattimore and Eddie Vilunas looked in camp so far?
Don,
I think there will still be blitzing, but maybe not to the extent Vic Koenning planned. He doesn't want Blaine Gabbert to sit back and pick him apart. That happened to his Kansas State defense last year.
Justin Lattimore is second at tight end behind Evan Wilson and Viliunas is third. Ron Zook said the converted quarterback has played well, which might have contributed to London Davis leaving.
Hey Bob,
Will Zach Becker be ready and starting at FB on Saturday? Also, I see you have Evan Wilson as the projected starting TE. I like this a lot because Wilson can be a big receiving weapon at TE. What are the chances that Justin Lattimore also sees legitimate playing time there also? I like Lattimore's athleticism a lot, and I think he can also be a big receiving threat at TE also. With London Davis gone, how is that looking for Russell Ellington's playing time on the offensive side of the ball?
Mark,
Zack Becker is out 4 to 6 weeks with a foot injury. The coaches hope to have him back for Ohio State.
Justin Lattimore will be on the field against Missouri, maybe a lot.
Russell Ellington is trying to come back from an injury. He missed all of Camp Rantoul and I don't think you will see him on the field any time soon.
I'm afraid the missery game can be very ugly for us with 8 'in the box
Illini1973,
A couple of reasons that won't happen. First, the coaches like Nathan Scheelhaase best as the starter. Second, they are happy with Eddie McGee at receiver. But I do think Eddie might get a snap or two behind center in a special package.
Bob, keep up the good work of informing us fans about the team. Well, my son talked me into going to the Mizzou game this weekend for the third year in the row. Why should I take this punishment? What should I be watching for in this game? Who should I follow on offense and defense for the Illini? What can you tell me to give me hope that this game will be close?
Dr. Phil,
There's nothing better than college football on a Saturday. Not even close. Not even the Braves in the World Series.
What to watch is pretty easy: No. 2s. The one on offense will have the ball all of the time and the one on defense should be near the ball all of the time.
I don't know if I can give you hope, but I will remind you that Nathan Scheelhaase is 1-0 at the Edward Jones Dome. Nobody else on his team can say that.
Last year Mizzou hit on alot of quick passes which prevented the defense from applying pressure on Gabbert. It might be wise to get tight on their recievers to prevent these type passes. With the recent secondary injuries does the defense have the capability to do this?