The Illinois football team has been having a great year so far, consistently delivering each game for the first season in a while. Prior to that unfortunate Ohio State loss and this weekend’s Purdue loss, the Illini’s 6-0 run was their best starting record since 1951!
Although the Fighting Illini have a total of five national championships under their belt, they haven’t won big since their last, also in 1951. The Illini also have fifteen Big Ten Championships, but the last one was in the year 2001.
However, with their current 6-1 record, the Illini are ranked third in the Big Ten Conference (Leaders Division), just behind perennial powerhouses Wisconsin and Penn State. With head coach Ron Zook leading the Illini, they have been able to win many games consistently.
On the defensive end, Illinois has the highest number of sacks (26) and is ranked number one in the nation! Defensive lineman Whitney Mercelius has ten of those sacks alone. With a versatile defense and a great turnover rate, the Illini defensive line remains strong. It is also worth noting that they have the Big Ten’s fewest penalties–another key aspect of a winning team.
The Illini offensive line is getting stronger as well. Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase has managed to successfully complete passes and effectively utilize plays, while wide receiver AJ Jenkins has also delivered. The Illini’s running team is very strong and has consistently stepped up to ensure success. Illinois currently ranks 54th in the nation for passing yards, 14th for rushing yards, and 36th for yards received.
This Season’s Key Players:
Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase: Scheelhaase currently has a 65% completion pass percentage, which makes him one of the strongest QB’s in the game. Recently added to the Manning Award Watch List (the award is given to the top quarterback in the nation). Scheelhaase has a good combination of accuracy and arm strength, as well as a quick release.
Runningback Troy Pollard: Pollard has 9.2 yards per carry, which is second in the country. His strength and speed make him a huge asset to the team.
Wide Receiver AJ Jenkins: Jenkins has over four games with at least 100 yards, and has scored over five times so far. Ranking number one in the nation with 895 receiving yards, he is a huge contributor to the Illini’s success.
Defensive Line Whitney Mercilus: Mercilus is currently a junior with ten sacks already this year, making him the number one rank in the country (for sacks). He is a big part of the Illini’s defensive strength this year.
Whether or not the Fighting Illini will finally be able to bring home another National Championship is debatable; but one thing is for sure, the Illini will need to focus on their defensive end and step up their game in the next four conference contests against Purdue, Penn. State (No. 2), Michigan, and Wisconsin (No. 1). However, with a strong defense, quick offense, and positive attitude, the Illini should remain a top competitor throughout the remainder of the season.
Sources:
ESPN.COM
http://www.fightingillini.com/sports/m-footbl/ill-m-footbl-body.html
Photos:
http://www.fightingillini.com/
http://espn.go.com/