Over the past two seasons, the Fighting Illini have looked lethargic against their opponents on the field, finishing at 4-8 in 2013 (1-7 in the Big Ten) and 2-10 in 2012, failing to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2009. After losing to Nebraska on October 5, they subsequently went on a six-game losing streak, finally snapping it on November 23rd against Purdue. With two losing seasons, coach Tim Beckman is in the hot seat and all eyes are on him as the Illini take the field this August. Here’s where we think the Illini stand right now:
The Good
After losing starting quarterback Nathan Scheelhaas, Illinois has found a replacement in sophomore Wes Lunt, a transfer from Oklahoma state who comes in at 6’5″, 215 lbs. Lunt started in five games for the Oklahoma State Cowboys before being sidelined by injury for most of the 2013 season. He has a strong arm that will work well in the quick read passing attack used by offensive coordinator Bill Cubit, who is returning for his season season. The team also has sophomore Aaron Bailey as a wildcat option, and senior Riley O’Toole, who is the best option of the three thanks to completing 75% of passes in 2013 with decent mobility. Running back Josh Ferguson returns after averaging 5.5 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns last season.
The Bad
Though a decent successor for Scheelhaas, injury-prone Lunt could create a problem in the QB department, not to mention his seven interceptions despite having six touchdowns last season. Defensively, Illinois has a lot of room for improvement-it is the main reason for having two losing seasons: they ranked 104th in scoring defense and 110th in total defense nationally. The young and inexperienced secondary is back for another season, with the hopes that freshman defensive end Paul James will make a strong impact. Offensively, there has been little stability in the coaching department-they have had four different coaches since 2012. The team picked up Tom Brattan, former offensive line coach at new Big Ten addition Maryland whose contract wasn’t renewed at last season’s end after a 7-6 final record in the ACC.
The Not-So-Ugly
Illinois can have a brighter 2014 by playing strong defense from start to finish all season. The Fighting Illini host Youngstown State in Week 1 and Western Kentucky in Week 2; both teams finished 8-4, and Youngstown State won their last meeting against Illinois 35-24. If Illinois plays strong defense during its Week 1 game against Youngstown, there is no doubt that the game will be a win for them. Purdue should also be an easy win for Illinois as well, seeing as the Boilermakers fizzled with a 1-11 record and winless record in the Big Ten last season. Polishing the running game and utilizing tight ends Jon Davis and Matt LaCosse will give the offensive end the experience they need to make playoff dreams a reality.
Ultimately if the Fighting Illini want to reclaim their name, they will have to play great defense and turn their young players into key pieces. More playing time, experience, and a consistent offensive coordinator are a must if Illinois wants a winning season.
