Illinois Football: Projected Illini depth chart against Akron

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CHAMPAIGN, IL – NOVEMBER 17: Illinois Fighting Illini running back Reggie Corbin (2) runs up the field with the ball during the Big Ten Conference college football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Illinois Fighting Illini on November 17, 2018, at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Running Back

Starter: Reggie Corbin

I believe the starting running back situation is even more stable than the quarterback situation for the Illini. Having Reggie Corbin come back for his senior season is huge for the program. He has a chance to show off his talents and rise on the NFL Draft boards.

Corbin eclipsed the 1,000-yard rushing mark in 2018. I expect the same out of him in 2019 as well. He has the talent to do great things for this program. Even more importantly, the Illini have an offensive line in front of him that will make the job a lot easier.

Backup: Mike Epstein

The backup running back role isn’t a hard one to figure out either. This job will end up going to Mike Epstein. He should carry the rock against Akron when Corbin starts getting tired. Offensive coordinator Rod Smith has to love the fact he has a two-headed monster in the backfield.

Epstein has been a big piece of the Illinois football team for a few years now. If he could just stay healthy, he would be an even bigger piece. I look for him to have a good year. Having Epstein on the field helps this offense tremendously.

Backup: Jakari Norwood, Kenyon Sims, Ra’Von Bonner, Dre Brown

I am curious to see who emerges as the No. 3 option for the Illini. Jakari Norwood got a lot of looks in training camp, but Ra’Von Bonner and Dre Brown are two returning players who have a lot of experience. I think Corbin and Epstein are the two clear leaders right now with a group of running backs fighting for the No. 3 spot.

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