Illinois Football: Projected Illini depth chart on offense for 2020
Quarterback
Starter: Brandon Peters
The unquestionable starter for the Illinois football team in 2020 is Brandon Peters. The 6-foot-5 Indiana native transferred into the program last season and lit the world on fire.
Peters finished the 2019 campaign throwing for 1884 yards, 18 touchdowns and 8 interceptions while leading the Illini to their first bowl game in a half-decade. Early inconsistencies had some Illinois fans nervous about the Peters era but quickly hushed the noise. One of the most memorable games for the talented passer was his 369 yards and 3 touchdowns in a massive comeback victory over Michigan State.
Look for Peters to shine again for the Illini in 2020. He will hold the starting job until he departs Champaign. Don’t be surprised if Peters ends snagging some awards by seasons end.
Primary Backup: Isaiah Williams
Illinois’ primary backup quarterback job is kind of up in the air, but I believe Isaiah Williams will win out when it is all said and done. He is an electrifying player who can move the Illinois offense up and down the field.
Williams didn’t see a ton of action at quarterback in 2019, as he was used more as a utility man for the program. I would assume he is a little more acclimated to the game now that he is entering his sophomore season. Look for Williams to have a few packages in the Illinois offense in 2020.
Backup: Matt Robinson
The primary backup in 2019 was Matt Robinson. The now sophomore quarterback threw for 475 yards and 1 touchdown in limited time last season. Most of these numbers came in the Michigan game where Robinson about led us to a legendary comeback.
Robinson isn’t a bad quarterback by any means, but I just believe Williams brings more to the field than Robinson would for the Illini. Illinois’ depth is impressive at quarterback, though.
Backup: Coran Taylor
A talented 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback from Peoria, Illinois, Coran Taylor will likely play a reserve role for Illinois in 2020. Taylor has yet to throw a pass at the college level, and that probably won’t change anytime soon. He is a great safety blanket for the quarterback position.
Backup: Deuce Spann
Illinois was able to build on their quarterback depth with the class of 2020 as the Illini landed Florida product, Deuce Spann. Don’t look for Spann to see the field in the first few years, as I expect a redshirt in 2020. But remember the name because Illinois will need the kid here in the future.
Backup: Josh Beetham
A 6-foot-4, 212-pound Yorkville, Illinois native, Josh Beetham walked on at Illinois this year. He won’t see playing time for the Illini in 2020 and is a prime redshirt target.