Writing Illini
Fansided

Illinois Football: Profile of the Illini starting defensive backs

By Rees Woodcock

Nov 12, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini helmets during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin won 48-3. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini helmets during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin won 48-3. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next
Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back De’Veon Smith (4) rushes for a touchdown past Illinois Fighting Illini defensive back Stanley Green (17) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back De’Veon Smith (4) rushes for a touchdown past Illinois Fighting Illini defensive back Stanley Green (17) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

FS Stanley Green

One of the best surprises last season was Stanley Green. He played so well as a true freshman and was one of the players whose game set them apart from the pack.

The emergence of Green as a viable option at the safety position was refreshing for Illinois football fans. No one expected him to make an impact in his first year but he did and he is here to stay.

In high school, Green wasn’t looked at as a big-time recruit, but teams clearly didn’t do their homework on this kid. He was only a borderline three-star recruit who was close to dropping down to two-star level. He was ranked as they No. 2148 player in the class of 2016 and the No. 197 cornerback in the nation.

Illinois snagged Green in what was a hectic recruiting class. The team had a head coach situation that was unstable but they still managed to pull in some talented players like Green.

Lovie then took over the Illinois football program. This worked out great for Green as he now played for an NFL head coach and a coaching staff with a ton of college and NFL coaching experience.

Green shined during his first season in Champaign. He played in 10 games for the Illini and started seven of those contests. He made a huge impact on the team finishing with 62 tackles and three forced fumbles on the year.

Lovie will once again look for Green to develop into an even better safety. He is going to be starting this season, and don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the best in the Big Ten.

Home/Illinois Football