5 Illinois football stats poised for a huge improvement in 2024

4. 8.99% sacks - #113 in the nation

One of the keys for the Illinois football team to play better is keeping the quarterback upright. Luke Altmyer is poised for a good season, but he will struggle if he doesn’t have time.

Last season, Altmyer spent some time with an injury. This opened the door for John Paddock to have some moments, but I don’t want to see a backup this season. I want Altmyer to stay clean and deliver passes with accuracy.

In 2023, Illinois’ opponents sacked Altmyer and other Illini quarterbacks at a rate of 8.99% of the time. That was bad enough to rank No. 113 in the nation. Not only will this number have to improve in 2024, but I believe it will.

Biggest Factor #1: Addition of JC Davis

I honestly didn’t think Illinois’ offensive line played well last season. Despite a couple of offensive linemen seeing NFL attention, the Illini struggled to protect the quarterback. A huge reason why I think we are going to see improved protection in 2024 is due to adding JC Davis.

Davis had an incredible season with New Mexico. He had the No. 8 overall offensive grade by Pro Football Focus. He comes in and replaces a player like Isaiah Adams or Julian Pearl, both of whom couldn’t crack the top 200.

I fully expect Davis to not only be great for Illinois but look for him to be an All-Big Ten player and, potentially, an All-American.

Biggest Factor #2: Nice depth has been built

I feel like I haven’t really been able to say this in quite some time, but I like Illinois’ depth on the offensive line. I think it is going to be one of the reasons why we give up fewer sacks in 2024.

Davis is going to be great at one of the tackle positions. I think newcomer Melvin Priestly will also start at a tackle role. I have Kevin Wigenton II and Zy Crisler at guard, and Josh Kreutz once again manning the center position. All five starters played over 500 snaps last season.

The depth behind the starters is solid as well. Josh Gesky and Hunter Whitenack both saw extensive playing time last season. I think Brandon Henderson and Dezmond Schuster are ready to step up too. The offensive line should be much improved.