3 huge X-factors for the Illinois football team against Kansas

3. Luke Altmyer

The first two players mentioned on the X-factor list are players who didn’t play in the Kansas game in 2023. Matthew Bailey and Aidan Laughery are going to be huge additions to the team this time around.

The final X-factor on my list is an obvious one. I think Illinois’ chances of winning will hang in the balance on how Luke Altmyer performs at quarterback.

Altmyer didn’t look good in the game last season. He threw for 202 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. These numbers include going 3-of-6 for 19 yards in the first four drives of the game. By that time, Kansas had jumped to a 21-0 lead.

There are a few reasons why I think Altmyer is a huge X-factor for the Illini. Obviously, he is the quarterback. But I think it is more nuanced than that.

People have to remember, that the Kansas game in 2023 was only the second game Altmyer had suited up for the Illinois football program. It was only his third start in his college career as well. He didn’t have much experience, and the team was new around him.

There is nearly a full season under Altmyer’s belt this time around. He knows the offense and knows his personnel. That experience is invaluable to a quarterback.

Altmyer looked great in the first game of the season against Eastern Illinois too. He only had one error, and thankfully, that interception was dropped. Altmyer finished the game throwing for 213 yards and four touchdowns.

The ability for Altmyer to step up in the pocket and feel pressure has improved. He keeps his eyes down the field and doesn’t just pull the ball down and run. Overall, I feel like his quarterback abilities have improved greatly over the offseason. This kid is ready for the spotlight. Altmyer is an X-factor.