Illinois Football: Projected Illini depth chart against Eastern Michigan

EAST HARTFORD, CT - SEPTEMBER 07: Illinois Fighting Illini wide receiver Josh Imatorbhebhe (9) reacts to a call during the game between the UConn Huskies and the Illinois Fighting Illini on September 7, 2019 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT. (Photo by Williams Paul/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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LINCOLN, NE – NOVEMBER 10: Running back Dre Brown #25 of the Illinois Fighting Illini scores in the second half against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

Running Back

Starter: Dre Brown

In the weekly press conference, Lovie Smith seemed 50-50 if Reggie Corbin was going to play against Eastern Michigan. He was hopeful, but I am going to guess we see Dre Brown suit up as the starter once again for the Illini.

Brown has played well this season when called upon. As a backup in week one, he rushed for 27 yards on 5 carries. This past week, he had 9 carries for 33 yards. Illinois is going to probably rely on a running back by committee style against Eastern Michigan if Corbin can’t go. Brown should get the lead carries, though.

Backup: Ra’Von Bonner

If Corbin is still on the mend, that would leave Ra’Von Bonner as the backup to Brown for the Illini. Bonner has been surprisingly quick this season. He didn’t have a great game last week against UConn, but I feel like he is more explosive this season.

This season, Bonner has a total of 16 carries for 57 yards and 1 touchdown. He has also caught 1 pass for 28 yards and 1 touchdown. He isn’t a terrible option to have as a reserve running back right now.

Backup: Jakari Norwood, Kenyon Sims

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