5 Illinois football stats poised for a huge improvement in 2024

We are about six weeks out from the first Illinois football game of the 2024 season.

Let me tell you, that gives me goosebumps. Illini football is almost back! The new season is on the horizon, and that means there should be optimism for success.

The 2023 campaign didn’t end how anyone wanted it to. We failed to win six games, finishing 5-7 overall, and this was a bit of a letdown from the eight-win campaign in 2022.

2024 should be different, though. Many of the same cast are back, but we have added a few key pieces that could help get us over the hump. There are a few crucial numbers that should improve as well.

Here are five Illinois football stats that are poised for a huge improvement in 2024

1. 567 yards - #148 in the nation

With any Bret Bielema program, the running game has been a specialty. He has put some great running backs in the NFL.

This rich history of talented running backs continued at Illinois. In 2022, we had Chase Brown go for over 1,600 yards in an incredible season. He is now tearing it up for the Cincinnati Bengals.

But in 2023, things seem to have come to a halt. The Illinois running game wasn’t as effective, and this showed in the numbers.

I think one of the top five stats to take a big jump in 2024 is going to be our leading rusher. Reggie Lovie III led the program in rushing with 567 yards for the season. That number should see a huge improvement.

Biggest Factor #1: Health

One of the biggest issues in 2023 was that Illinois had some serious health issues. Our running backs, in particular, couldn’t say on the field.

Love played in just eight games while backup running back Kaden Feagin saw time in nine contests. On top of that, Josh McCray only saw snaps in five games due to injuries. It was a brutal season for Illinois running backs.

Feagin, now entering his sophomore season, is healthy and ready to take the reins. Barring any health setbacks, he should have well over 567 yards on the ground in 2024.

Biggest Factor #2: Clear #1

In addition to Illinois hopefully being more healthy, which will result in more rushing yards for our leading rusher, I think there is a more well-defined lead running back.

Love was the starter during the 2023 season, but he shared time with Feagin once everyone saw what the monster could do on the field. Love transferred to Purdue, and now Feagin is the clear No. 1 running back on the roster. This defined role should help him rack up the rushing yards this season.