Illinois football needed a change of fortune before their trip to Columbus, and they found that this past Saturday against Southern Illinois.
The Illini, who lost 31-27 to Duke in Week 2, routed the Salukis 48-10 at Gies Memorial Stadium. It was a statement game for Illinois, as they needed to gain momentum before starting conference play.
There were a lot of things to be proud of in this game, highlighted by the improved tackling of the defense, as well as the continued dominance of Collin Dixon. But it was the performance of freshman Javari Barnett in the fourth quarter that got the attention of fans across the country.
First career touchdown for @IlliniFootball's Javari Barnett 🤩
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) September 19, 2026
Watch on Peacock pic.twitter.com/b6o3PpgWea
Barnett, a three-star running back from Tampa, FL, committed to the Illini on December 3, 2025, after flipping from Alabama. ESPN ranked him No. 37 and Rivals No. 38 at his position
In his Illinois debut, Barnett carried the ball eight times in the fourth quarter for 50 yards and a touchdown. It was the Tampa product's first snaps of the season, and he left a great first impression.
The future looks bright for the Illinois backfield with Javari Barnett carrying the ball
Ca'Lil Valentine has control of the Illinois backfield, leading the team with 38 carries through three games. Barnett certainly got Champaign talking after his performance at the end of Saturday's game.
Barnett ran like he was mad at the grass, fearlessly bursting through the line with each run. He made the most of his eight carries, averaging 6.3 yards per tote as a powerful downhill runner.
It was a big moment for Barnett when he entered the game in the fourth quarter. The entire sideline was thrilled to see him get some snaps, even after Bielema addressed his decision to reach the ball over the goal line.
#Illini HC Bret Bielema, RB Aidan Laughery and others were excited about freshman RB Javari Barnett finding the end zone.
— Glenn Kinley (@glenn_kinley) September 19, 2026
Although, Coach B will be letting him hear about reaching the ball out across the goal line. 😅 pic.twitter.com/vtCQlYw1Kn
Barnett has a chance to be a major contributor for the Illini down the road, especially when Valentine and Aidan Laughery depart. His physical presence on the field makes him the perfect change-of-pace back, but he does bring a history of injuries from high school.
If Barnett can stay healthy, he will provide quality touches for Illinois throughout his college career. He is the kind of all-around back that coaches dream about, and the backfield is his for the taking.
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