ITP's Fall Six-Pack: Illinois Fighting Illini
Notas del episodio
Ryan and Clinton continue with fall previews, and welcome back Sunny Verma from Locked on Illini to the show, to preview Illinois.
Bret Bielema has performed a remarkable revival act. A 5-7 season in 2024 had him on the hot seat. In the two years since his team is 19-7 and has pushed itself into that second tier of the Big Ten. However he will have to replace three-year starting QB Luke Altmyer, who capped a successful run in Champaign with 27 total TDs and 3200 yards last season. Katin Houser returns to the Big Ten after a two-year run with East Carolina and appears primed to succeed Altmyer. Will the offense run similarly with him at the helm in 2026?
The Illini will need to run the ball better, however, after finishing last season 88th in FBS in rush yards per game. Is Ca'Lil Valentine the answer?
The Illinois defense was ok last season, but struggled creating turnovers and getting after the QB consistently. Star pass rusher Gabe Jacas is off to the NFL. Bobby Hauck and his 3-3-5 enter as new DC, after a successful run as head coach of Montana in the FCS. What will Hauck bring to this team and how can they be better at creating havoc in 2026?
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