Illinois Football: Illini starters named for the Akron game

The starters for the Illinois football team have been announced and there were a few surprises.

The offensive side of the ball didn’t have too many interesting choices for starters. Brandon Peters is the quarterback for the Illini. Reggie Corbin will carry the rock at running back. Daniel Barker is the tight end for game one. And the offensive line features Vederian Lowe, Kendrick Green, Doug Kramer, Richie Petitbon and Alex Palczewski. These were all expected.

Wide receiver is where there was a bit of a surprise. Dominic Stampley is slotted as a starter for the Orange and Blue. This makes me happy for the kid, but Trevon Sidney not starting was fascinating. That means Stampley has done a great job impressing the coaching staff. Having Sidney come off the bench provides great depth for the Illini too.

The defense had multiple surprising starters in my book. I wasn’t shocked by Wole Betiku starting at defensive end. He came in from USC and is a freak athlete. But the Illini will be starting Ayo Shogbonyo. He was on my radar, but I didn’t have him starting. I am curious to see how he does.

I was also a little surprised by the starting defensive tackles. Jamal Woods and Jamal Milan will anchor the middle of the defensive line. I was thinking Calvin Avery was going to end up starting, but his time will have to wait, I guess. I do like Woods and Milan, though. It’s not like they are a downgrade by any means.

The only surprise I saw in the secondary was the starting of Kerby Joseph. I was expecting Stanley Green to take over that role since Sydney Brown is out with injury. This makes me wonder where Green is on the depth chart. He might be behind Adams.

Overall, I am excited to see what this crew can do on the field. This should be a great season for the Orange and Blue.