3 ways the Illinois football team can attack Central Michigan

2. Keep the running back running back rotation fresh

As the season unfolds, I think it is pretty clear that Illinois has a solid running back room. We have at least three running backs who can confidently carry the rock for this program.

In the Kansas game, Bret Bielema and the Illini coaching staff trusted multiple running backs. Kaden Feagin was the main ball carrier, and Aidan Laughery was the first man up off the bench.

Toward the end of the game, in the biggest drive of the game, Bielema entrusted freshman Ca’Lil Valentine to carry the ball. He handled the big spot brilliantly.

The three-headed monster of Feagin, Laughery, and Valentine could be pretty special for the Illini. We need to use all three against Central Michigan, so we can keep fresh legs and run the ball down their throats.

Central Michigan isn’t good at stopping the run either. They struggled mightily against Florida International. The Panthers had 33 carries for 185 yards and four touchdowns last week against the Chippewas. That is a 5.6 yards per carry average.

I think Illinois can end the game quickly if we just keep rotating fresh legs into the game and wear Central Michigan down. I wouldn’t be shocked if we have a 100-yard rusher and all three running backs go for at least 40 yards in this game.