Illinois enters 2026 with major unknowns

New defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck and half a new roster, including QB Katin Houser replacing Luke Altmyer, have left the Illini with more questions than answers heading into the season.

Run game struggling badly

Illinois averaged just 3.5 yards per carry against Duke, well below Big Ten standards. Even removing Ca'Lil Valentine's 51-yard TD run, the backs managed only 37 yards on 10 carries.

Offensive line excels in pass protection

Houser hasn't been sacked once through two games, showing the line is strong in pass protection but needs to create better running lanes for the backs.

Southern Illinois defense is stout

The Salukis have allowed just 2.6 and 1.3 yards per carry in their first two games, making them a surprisingly tough test for Illinois' struggling run game.

Tackling woes raise red flags

Despite coaches claiming Week 2 tackling was good, Illinois' defense has struggled with arm tackles and poor pursuit angles. A loss to Southern Illinois could trigger a crisis before Ohio State.

“Our tackling was significantly better. In fact, it was darn good for most of the game.”

Matthew Bailey stands out defensively

While most Illini defenders struggle with tackling, Matthew Bailey has been a bright spot on the defense through two games.

Collin Dixon dominates receiving

Dixon has caught five of Houser's six touchdown passes and 236 of his 453 passing yards. The Illini need other receivers to step up when defenses focus on him.

“Houser has thrown six touchdowns on the season. Collin Dixon has caught five of them.”

Duke shut down passing attack

Once Duke's secondary focused on Dixon, Illinois' passing game stalled. The Illini need Hudson Clement, Brayden Trimble, and tight ends to create more options.

Hudson Clement needs to produce

Clement had four receptions for 45 yards against Duke but needs more production after battling injuries in fall camp.

Brayden Trimble must step up

The sophomore has taken over the WR3 spot with Jayshon Platt out and needs to find another gear to help spread the defense.

Tight ends need bigger role

Kaden Feagin has zero catches this year. The tight end position needs to create a bigger footprint in Illinois' passing game.

Southern Illinois is final tune-up

Before heading to Ohio State for Big Ten play, the Illini need to build confidence against the Salukis and prove they can execute on both sides of the ball.

Ohio State looms after Southern Illinois

Illinois travels to Columbus in Week 4 for its Big Ten opener. A loss to Southern Illinois would put the Illini at one and two heading into that matchup.