Illini Football 2021
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This is a good thing. I was worried about losing Williams. Williams is such a talented runner. With him in the game at receiver, Bielema can still move him to QB for some plays or find routes to get him favorable coverage. In the past, defenses could substitute if Williams entered the game. Now, they don't know how to account for him.
Homecoming 2019
- Chicago
It's exactly what all the big name schools wanted him to do when they were recruiting him. He's an athlete through and through, put the ball in his hands in space and let his natural athleticism take over.
Right, but he wanted to play QB. Illinois lived up to their word and gave him a chance. That's why Illinois got him.
True, but they did bring in Brandon Peters after he signed.
I think the team realizes Peters is the better qb. If Williams wants to play at the next level he probably realized he needed to change positions. How many good college quarterbacks can’t make it into the NFL because of whatever reason but can still make a roster and play on Sundays
At the time, that was a head scratcher. The team was loaded with option qbs and I thought that was part of why Rod Smith was there.
Yes, it sounds like Sitkowski is the probable #2 qb this year, and #1 going forward.
Incoming transfer QB Artur Sitkowski creates 'a good mix' for Illini at QB
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Bret Bielema wanted to give his quarterbacks most of the spring to prove themselves. But once Artur Sitkowski entered the transfer portal, the
247sports.com
From what I saw at the spring game, Spahn looked like there was something to work with. I hope he doesn't think he is way down the depth chart and decide to leave. Surprised that Coran is still aroundYes, it sounds like Sitkowski is the probable #2 qb this year, and #1 going forward.
Incoming transfer QB Artur Sitkowski creates 'a good mix' for Illini at QB
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Bret Bielema wanted to give his quarterbacks most of the spring to prove themselves. But once Artur Sitkowski entered the transfer portal, the
I think Coran is a just happy to be on the team kinda guy at this point. I can see Matt Robinson transferring out back home now. I am not worried about Spann. He knows he still has 4 years of eligibility left.
I was unhappy with the Bret hire, believing him to be an immature, selfish bully, but he has been nothing but a complete professional here. Frankly, this is what I thought we were getting when Lovie was hired, a highly refined process for turning boys into men, athletes into football players, and students into graduates.
Good process generates good results, so I expect this team to improve significantly. I think Coach B is doing the work and the kids are buying in. If so, there's a very good chance we win six or more this season.
Good process generates good results, so I expect this team to improve significantly. I think Coach B is doing the work and the kids are buying in. If so, there's a very good chance we win six or more this season.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I thought Spann was a dual threat more in terms of, good passer who can run? (As opposed to IW’s more runner who can throw)
am I wrong? If they want good passers it would seem like a guy who can also run is just a bonus.
am I wrong? If they want good passers it would seem like a guy who can also run is just a bonus.
That's what the spring game and buzz out of practice made it seem like. I think IW is electric, but his wind up is long and his arm strength isn't there yet.
Deleted member 746826
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i dont necessarily think peters is the better quarterback. he always seems to wilt in the big games. however, i have no problem with williams moving to receiver.
Joel Goodson
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Our season largely rides on Peters. If we get the good Peters (most of the time), I think your projection is reasonable. If we don't and/or he's out, we're in trouble.
Deleted member 747671
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Totally random thoughts on Coran. He seems happy at Illinois, so I don't see him leaving. He seems to be one of our better athletes, would love to see him try another position or 2.
1. Could he bulk up a little more and become some sort of hybrid RB/TE/WR? I don't see him getting any higher than QB3 and BB seems to be throwing every option into the TE room. I don't see him being the size needed for a traditional TE but as some sort of movement offensive option, his athleticism could help on the field.
2. Has he ever played defense? Would look good as a S/LB/Nickel.
1. Could he bulk up a little more and become some sort of hybrid RB/TE/WR? I don't see him getting any higher than QB3 and BB seems to be throwing every option into the TE room. I don't see him being the size needed for a traditional TE but as some sort of movement offensive option, his athleticism could help on the field.
2. Has he ever played defense? Would look good as a S/LB/Nickel.
He did not wilt against Wisconsin. Im ready to see this team with a different scheme. I'll hold judgement until we see a season with the new staff
I agree Peters came up big in a few games. But it's easy to forget all the poor decisions and badly thrown balls earlier in the game that necessitated the big comeback at the end. I'm hoping this staff works on his consistency, and a habit of going into a shell at times if things aren't going well.
I picked up some time back that the fact the offensive coordinator, Rod Smith, was upstairs during the games may have been a contributing factor to Peters' lapses. The suggestion was that Peters would sometimes get down mentally or emotionally if he made a mistake or something went wrong, and there was no one on the sideline to help bring him out of his funk. His quiet demeanor probably didn't help. As I understand, however, Bielema plans to have his two coordinators on the sidelines during games. Tony Peterson, who seems to have a good rapport and ability to communicate well with players, could closely monitor Peters and help stave off the lapses we have seen. We will see.
Illinivek23
- Gurnee
These are great questions. Defensive backfield, perhaps S, would best benefit from his QB experience - but is the physicality there?
Agreed! I think Petersen's ability to work more closely with QBs in game will help Peters be more consistent. Having a solid backfield and veteran line will also help. I think Bielema is also a great motivator that will be constantly communicating with his players during the game. With Lovie, we barely saw emotions in game after bad plays
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