Illinois

In 2007, Illinois was one of the surprise teams in the nation as they earned a spot in the Rose Bowl.  Last season, they fell back to earth.  This is the last go-around for senior QB Juice Williams.  He’s likely to go out firing away as he’s blessed with the best receiving corps in the Big Ten (Arrelious Benn, Jarred Fayson, Jeff Cumberland, and TE Mike Hoomanawanui). 

QB Juice Williams is back for what seems to be his 8th year.  He is inconsistent, but has the propensity to explode at any time.  He has the best set of receivers in conference, including…

...Arrelious Benn.  While we’re still waiting for uber-talented wideout to have a monster fantasy campaign, he did post 67 receptions and 1,055 yards in 2008.  The problem:  get in the endzone, Reg!  He only cracked paydirt three times last year.  If he could get into the 8-10 TD range, you’d have an excellent fantasy WR.  This is likely Benn’s last year in college, as he is being forecasted as a top NFL draft pick in 2010.

Florida-transfer Jarred Fayson established a nice rapport with Juice Williams during the spring, and is likely to be the No. 2 wideout next to Benn. 

There’s a logjam at RB with Daniel Dufrene, Jason Ford and Mikel LeShoure.  Will one emerge?  All signs are pointing to RBBC here, with each back filling a different role in the running game. 
 

LeShoure and Ford had solid outings, averaging more than 5 yards per carry.

Fayson injured his foot and missed the final week of spring.  He should be 100% for fall camp.

Spring Recaps - Team Index