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Illinois Football: 5 observations from the Illini loss to Northwestern

By Rees Woodcock

Nov 25, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback John Paddock (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Northwestern Wildcats at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 25, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback John Paddock (4) passes the ball during the first half against the Northwestern Wildcats at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 25, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Reggie Love III (23) runs the ball as Northwestern Wildcats defensive back Jaheim Joseph (3) defends during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 25, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Reggie Love III (23) runs the ball as Northwestern Wildcats defensive back Jaheim Joseph (3) defends during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Reggie Love III is a 1,000-yard rusher if healthy

Illinois fans were spoiled in 2022. We got to see a team full of NFL talent and players who performed well at the highest level in the college game. Someone like running back Chase Brown doesn’t come around often.

But Illinois does have some great running back talent in the backfield. I loved the depth we had at one time this season, but the injury bug plagued us throughout the year. What I saw on Saturday against Northwestern confirmed a thought I had. Reggie Love III is a 1,000-yard rusher if he could stay healthy.

I love watching Love play the game. He is such a smart player who can do things not even Brown could do on the football field. I think the best ability that Love brings to the table is his ability to sneak through holes that aren’t even there.

Love turns his hips so well and can bounce around to get yards. He is extremely patient with his runs as well. He doesn’t just plow forward. His running style reminds me a little of a prime Le’Veon Bell. A smart runner who has the patience for a hole to open and then blasts through that hole with great speed.

Love had his second 100-yard rushing performance on Saturday. He had 23 carries for 106 yards against Northwestern. They couldn’t stop him, but Love wasn’t 100% by any means. He was seen limping multiple times, and it looked like he was giving us his all on every play.

I can’t wait to see Love back in an Illinois uniform next season. He is someone who can lead the Illini to a bowl game and get us to more than six wins in a season. I fully expect him to hit at least 1,000 yards in 2024. This kid has special talent, and if we can keep him healthy, the Big Ten needs to watch out.

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