3 most dangerous Eastern Illinois players vs Illinois football

3. Nicholas Oliveira-Chace (SR) – Defensive Lineman

Eastern Illinois does have a few nasty defensive players coming into the game on Thursday. I think the Panthers could hinder the Illini at times, and one of the players who could help in their cause would be Nicholas Oliveira-Chace.

Oliveira-Chace transferred into the Eastern Illinois program in 2023 after a stop at Franklin Pierce University. He started every game for the Panthers and put up some impressive numbers. The senior defensive lineman finished with 35 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3.0 fumble recoveries, and 1.0 forced fumbles on the season.

Clogging the middle of the line is going to be something to watch for on Thursday. Oliveira-Chace has the ability to shut down the run and really give the Illini some problems.

• Best Attribute: Strength

Illinois’ offensive tackles are going to be in for a bit of a battle against Oliveira-Chace. He is someone who can push through the offensive line and get to the ball carrier with his strength.

I am impressed with Oliveira-Chace’s ability to hold off an offensive lineman too. He has the strength to stick with his man until he sees where the ball is going, and then he sheds the block with ease.

• Worst Attribute: Speed

While there is a lot of strength with Oliveira-Chace, I don’t think he is the fastest player in the world. He is someone you can run around on the field.

I will be curious to see if Oliveira-Chace’s speed has improved this offseason. If it did, he will be an incredibly dangerous player on Thursday.