It never made sense we recruited offensive linemen that didn’t fit the scheme. I’m just happy we aren’t recruiting big fat linemen with slow feet.
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Illini Football 2026
It never made sense we recruited offensive linemen that didn’t fit the scheme. I’m just happy we aren’t recruiting big fat linemen with slow feet.
I have a strong belief that the offense that faces Ohio State will be much improved over the past few years. The non-conference games will be the testing ground, for the O line especially. I don't expect to look like a BCS contender in the non-conference.
Yeah they have the athletes and OL to match up with OSU. One thing people need to pay attention to is the defense hung with them for the better part of that game last year.
With the secondary back healthy now, that's a big boost. Juice Clarke held J.Smith to what was maybe his worst game statistically (A game many overlook if you're looking for a potential 'Spoon type of jump). They have the athletes at DB to hold their receivers in check. Should be an interesting game.
So, looking down the road a bit, after this season, which DB do you think will go higher in the draft - Bailey, X Scott, or Clarke?
Kind of leaning Clarke if he continues to progress. He looks like he has added more strength when I was watching the training camp preview and I don't think people talk enough about how he basically shut down maybe the best WR in CFB last year.
Scott offers versatility and should be a lock to go round 3-4 or higher assuming he stays healthy. His playmaking ability at NICKEL raises his stock but he is a good CB when lined up outside as well.
Bailey I believe is going to possibly be the most decorated in college as this defense could make him a household name this season. He's a real enforcer. If a team like Seattle who has a similar type of scheme drafts him he'll continue to play that CHIEF type of role. Otherwise I think he'll more than likely project at LB in the pros which raises his stock even more IMO.
For right now I'll say Clarke with all going in the 3-5 round range at the moment. Lots of potential to move up for all three though.
If Clarke shuts down Smith again and some of these other elite B1G WR you'll see him rise big time. It kind of puts me in the mind of Spoon because you could see it coming when he was clamping up future NFL WR in Jarrett from Maryland, etc. the previous year. That type of rise is almost unheard in terms of obscurity but I could see Clarke making a big jump with progression. Interested to see Morris and how he fits in. There's good buzz and I liked the tape a lot.
However, I think Hankins Jr. is the best NFL prospect at DB (And one of the top overall on the team). I could see him on freshman AA teams this year and possibly a B1G team (HM, etc.).
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