Illinois Football: Highlights and lowlights from Illini first half vs UTSA
Illinois football got down early in the first half against UTSA, but they fought back to narrow the deficit to just six points at halftime, 20-14.
This was a game of two completely different quarters for Illinois in the first half. The Illini defense struggled in quarter one which kept the offense off the field. Things quickly turned around for the Orange and Blue, though.
Here are some of the highlights and lowlights from the first half of the Illinois football game against UTSA.
- Illini secondary struggling
UTSA quarterback Frank Harris was able to throw the ball all over the field in the first half against Illinois. He finished with 154 yards through the air and a 59% completion percentage.
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Honestly, this was a combination of a good quarterback against an Illini secondary still figuring out how to win games.
- Deuce Spann might be our best wide receiver
Heading into the season, I never thought I would say that Deuce Spann would see snaps let alone possibly be our best wide receiver. But the Illini quarterback showed off his tremendous athletic ability once again. He got open along the left sideline and tiptoed into the end zone. He is one of the few bright spots for the Illini in the first half.
- Reggie Love is doing the dirty work
Illinois needed a touchdown and on one of their final drives of the first half, Artur Sitkowski hooked up with Danial Barker in the end zone. This play was sensational, but it wouldn’t have been possible without Reggie Love picking up a blitzing player. He gave Sitkowski time in the pocket to put the pass on the money. Love’s blocking doesn’t go unnoticed.
What needs to happen in the second half?
Illinois needs to stop making dumb mistakes. A muffed punt at the end of the first half cost us three points. That stuff needs to stop. Crisp fundamental football will win this game for the Illini.
I also believe we need to bring more pressure on Harris. Illinois can’t rely on the secondary dropping back and picking up their man. They are getting burnt on slant routes. Bring a couple of extra guys and let’s make Harris sweat.
This game is far from over. Illinois isn’t playing badly offensively. They just need to make a few adjustments at halftime.