(1) Illinois hasn't utilized the tight end in 25 years
(2) Rod Smith doesn't have a history of using the tight end
(3) 22 catches for a freshman TE is a lot better than you are thinking. The #1 TE at Georgia is expecting to be picked between the 2nd and 4th round this year and had 30 catches in 14 games last year. Plus you mentioned the expected #1 TE draft prospect as having the same number of catches as Dorsey (the caveat being the Illinois OC that created those TE opportunities is now gone).
(4) I disagree with the last sentence, if Illinois has been terrible for tight ends, and the OC doesn't have a history of using tight ends, we should temper expectations for Ford.
Now, with the lack of quality WRs on the roster, and Ford's obvious talent, I'm hoping that Rod gives him reps at TE and WR to maximize his talent. If Illinois brings in that rumored 5th-year QB who shall not be named, then I give Ford's numbers a bump. If Illinois doesn't, or if Illinois only plays him at TE, I'll be ecstatic about 20 catches.