Daniel Dufrene

There is a logjam of competition at the tailback spot as Illinois closes in on the Sept. 5 opener against Missouri, and coach Ron Zook has said it's likely to be a group effort that carries the ball for the Illini.

But so far, Dufrene has emerged as the leader, the best combination of experience, speed, pass-catching ability and - now - strength and durability as well.

Tupper