One of the more intriguing positions in new defensive coordinator Vic Koenning's multi-dimensional system is the "Bandit," which is a hybrid DE/OLB. Koenning has coached several top-flight Bandits in his day, including Dallas Cowboys all-pro DeMarcus Ware, the late Gaines Adams and potential 2010 first-round pick Ricky Sapp.

Illinois has two sophomores working at Bandit: Michael Buchanan (6-6, 225) and Nate Palmer (6-3, 220), while Justin Staples (6-4, 230) appears to be a DE who could develop into a Bandit. Buchanan spent last year as an undersized DE while Palmer and Staples have been lightly used outside linebackers.

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