4. The difference Jaheim Clarke makes is wildly noticeable
It was painful to see the news of Xavier Scott likely being out for most of the year. That is a big hole in the Illinois defense.
On Saturday, we had someone step up in a big way in Scott’s absence. Jaheim Clarke was finally back in action, and after missing the first few games of the season with injury, he came out of the gates strong.
Clarke was a difference-maker for the Illini. From the first snap, he was batting balls away and not letting USC gain momentum. He helped stabilize the Illinois secondary, and his production was crucial in stopping the Trojans on multiple occasions.
When the final seconds ticked off, Clarke finished with three tackles, a pass deflection, and a huge fumble recovery.
Jayden Maiava quickly went away from Clarke, too. That is why they were able to score a couple of touchdowns. Tanner Heckle was getting picked on, but Clarke still made his presence known.
Let’s continue to get Clarke involved in the defense. He can be an All-Big Ten caliber player if we continue to develop his talent. This kid is special, and I can’t wait to see what he brings to the Illinois defense the rest of the season.