On to the defense.  Some commenter asked if I was going to be as positive about the defense as I have been about the offense?  Quick answer (spoiler alert!): no. Aug. 22: Quarterbacks Aug. 23: Running Backs Aug. 24: Tight Ends/Fullbacks Aug. 25: Wide Receivers Aug. 26: Offensive Guards/Centers Aug. 27: Offensive Tackles Aug. 28: [...]

Wow – I’m gonna have to type fast to sneak this one in under the August 27th wire.  This is the first chance I’ve had to sit down at the computer today.  A quick Public Service Announcement, if I may:  Golf can be a frustrating game. Aug. 22: Quarterbacks Aug. 23: Running Backs Aug. 24: [...]

On to the big fellas.  Inside guys today, outside guys tomorrow.  Then, on to the defense.  And before you know it, FOOTBALL. Aug. 22: Quarterbacks Aug. 23: Running Backs Aug. 24: Tight Ends/Fullbacks Aug. 25: Wide Receivers Aug. 26: Offensive Guards/Centers Aug. 27: Offensive Tackles Aug. 28: Defensive Ends/Bandits Aug. 29: Defensive Tackles Aug. 30: [...]

Little known fact: 58% percent of the Illini roster is made up of wide receivers. OK, I made that up.  But in practice, it seems that way.  When they go to individual drills, 6 guys go work with Ron West – 3 bandits and 3 Sam linebackers.  16 guys go work with Paul Petrino.  Usually, [...]

With this one we’ll combine the tight ends with the fullbacks.  Because that’s how Paul Petrino rolls.  He has a tight end and he has an h-back and he has a fullback, and he uses some of the same guys at all three positions. Aug. 22: Quarterbacks Aug. 23: Running Backs Aug. 24: Tight Ends/Fullbacks [...]