The Illinois football team had a solid win over the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. They now move to 2-0 on the season.
The Game
This was a nice performance for the Illini. Coming into it, people were saying Illinois was going to get blown out or they would be lucky to keep it close. I hope this game got those people to change their tune a bit.
Illinois started to find their stride in the fourth quarter against Ball State. That game was a combination of the Illini probably not taking the game serious enough and a young team figuring out who fits best where. The coaching staff figured things out toward the end of the game and that transferred over to the Western Kentucky game. In addition to that, this is not the same Hilltoppers team as last season. They lost Anthony Wales, their leading running back, and that clearly had a huge impact. They also have to adjust to a new head coach and Illinois fans know how that is from last season. So I am not sure why some people are surprised by the outcome from last night.
Recruiting
Apparently big-time linebacker recruit Ayodele Adeoye was at the game last night. Illinois was in the running for this kid until he committed to Texas. I thought there wasn’t a chance he would come to Illinois after that but it looks like he is still keeping his options open.
The win last night showed this Illinois team is on the rise. The crowds were solid and the fan base is excited about the future. That always gets recruits excited as well. If we keep winning, more big-time recruits will commit. It is as simple as that.
Next: Top performers against Western Kentucky
Future
Wow, the future bright for this Illinois football team. This program is being led by true freshmen on both sides of the ball and they continue to grow every game.
The next game Illinois has is against South Florida. The game location is yet to be determined because of Hurricane Irma but this is a big one for the Illini. South Florida is a ranked opponent and we can see exactly where the Illini are in their progression.
If Illinois can keep this game within 10 points or possibly upset the Bulls, then I think that is another step in the right direction. This team is doing something special in Champaign.