Illinois Football: Expectations are high as Illini receive preseason accolades

Expectations are rising for the Illinois football team, as a group of eight players is being recognized as some of the best at their position.

The Illini had some acknowledgment of talent going into last season, but things didn’t pan out the way many had hoped. But entering the 2021 campaign, Illinois is poised to have a bounce-back year. Phil Steele sees it that way as well, as he has one Illini player making an All-American team and eight total players on an All-Big Ten team.

Illinois’ lone player to make a preseason All-American team is linebacker, Jake Hansen. Phil Steele has Hansen on the fourth team. This is a high honor considering how many talented linebackers there are in college football.

Hansen also dons Steele’s preseason All-Big Ten list as a first-teamer. That is an impressive feat as well. Joining Hansen on the first team is linebacker, Owen Carney. Following those two talented athletes is running back, Chase Brown. He made the second team All-Big Ten list.

Punter Blake Hayes and long snapper Ethan Tabel were slotted on the third team All-Big Ten list. Illinois rounds out their preseason honors with three players making the fourth team All-Big Ten. The three players included cornerback Tony Adams, center Doug Kramer and offensive lineman Blake Jeresaty.

The expectations for Illinois football success should be high.

With this many players getting preseason attention, there should be a high level of expectation for what we see on the field this fall. Illinois doesn’t just have talent, they have experience as well.

The defense alone should be much improved from last season. Hansen is a preseason All-American and heading into his COVID year after deciding to come back. This is a make-or-break year for him if he wants to get to the NFL. I think he could end the year as a third team All-American or better.

I am curious how Carney transitions from defensive end to linebacker this fall. He was a monster on the end of the Illinois defensive line for such a long time. I am also excited to see Adams back at cornerback after being moved around the past couple of seasons.

Another reassuring thought is the fact Illinois has two offensive linemen on the All-Big Ten list. Kramer is better than fourth team, but having Jeresaty getting some notoriety is nice. Everything on offense revolves around the offensive line, so stability upfront will bring stability to the offense.

Illinois has a solid roster coming back full of talent and experience. There is no reason not to expect a good season from this crew. Hopes are high in 2021.