Return game seeking boost

Illinois coach Ron Zook said his special teams need to improve. "I'm not real happy with our kickoff coverage. We've got to get that shored up a little bit." Illinois ranks eighth or lower in the Big Ten in punting, kickoff returns, kickoff coverage and punt returns. Nationally, Illinois ranks 92nd or lower in all four categories. Zook said he will continue to evaluate his punters each week during practice. Ryan Lankford and freshman Justin DuVernois have been splitting the duties, with receiver Lankford using the rugby-style punt. "There's a lot of things that go into that decision," Zook said. "No. 1, Ryan punted the best last week. You go with the one that you feel is going to be the best."

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