Illinois Football: 3 Illini players who didn’t need spring practice
3. Brandon Peters
Next to the offensive line, the most important player for any team is the quarterback. The guy behind the center leads everything on the offensive side of the ball. That is why I am so comfortable with Brandon Peters being the Illini quarterback.
Peters had a good first year with the Illinois football program. His ability to get the ball down the field is impressive. Usually, quarterbacks need spring practice, though. But I don’t think Peters does for multiple reasons.
The main reason why I believe Peters will be just fine without sprint practice is the fact he went almost an entire season in the Illinois offense and knows the playbook. Nothing has changed with the Illini offense, so the same plays are still in there. This kid probably knows each play like the back of his hand.
Another reason I want to point out for not needed spring practice is the fact the Illini have, roughly, the same wide receiver corps. Josh Imatorbhebhe, Trevon Sidney and Ricky Smalling all return to the program as seniors. Even the primary backups like Casey Washington and Donny Navarro have a ton of experience with Peters. That means their timing should still be solid.
And, finally, the last reason for not needing spring practice is for health. This has been a trend with this slide show, but keeping the quarterback healthy is priority No. 1. Peters missed a couple of games in 2019, so there is a risk that he could get injured. We don’t want that.
Next. Top 3 Illini small forwards of all-time. dark
The experience and familiarity with the wide receiver corps are two huge reasons why Peters didn’t need spring practice in 2020. It is always good to have fewer chances for injury too. I believe this kid will be ready for the start of the season come September.