Illinois Football: Top 10 Illini Quarterbacks of All-Time
In the early 1980’s, Illinois football was looked at as a transfer destination. Head coach Mike White received much criticism for this practice, but it helped form some great talent.
Illinois Fighting Illini
White recruited junior college transfer Tony Eason to come to Champaign.
Eason entered the program with two years of eligibility left and he was great in those two years with the Illini.
The first season with the Illini Eason threw for 3,360 yards and 20 touchdowns. These are impressive stats for an era known for running the ball.
That year the Illini finished 7-4 but didn’t get to participate in a bowl game because of a bowl ban due to the improper playing of quarterback Dave Wilson.
The following season was just as good for Eason. He threw for 3,248 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Illinois made the Liberty Bowl that season and fell to Alabama 21-15.
The Illini were really good in the two years that Eason was the quarterback of the football team.
Eason then declared for the NFL Draft and was selected with the No. 15 pick in the first round in 1983 by the New England Patriots.
Eason would go on to make the 1986 Super Bowl against the Chicago Bears. He was dominated in that game.
Next: No. 3 Quarterback