Illinois Fighting Illini Roster 2019 Illini Roster

Head Coach: Lovie Smith        2017 Salary: $3,000,000        Offensive Coordinator: Rod Smith       Defensive Coordinator: Hardy Nickerson         

Stadium: Memorial Stadium       Surface: Turf        City: Urbana-Champaign        State: Illinois

The Illinois Fighting Illini have struggled mightily since Lovie Smith took over two years ago. While Smith obviously hopes for a longer leash than he got coaching in his last NFL stop, patience figures to be running out if he cannot make some progress. However, it may be wise to keep low expectations for the Illini this season.

Smith was always known for running a boring and inefficient offense in the pros and has taken steps to change that reputation at Illinois. However, offensive progress is difficult to come by without a solution at quarterback. Currently, the Illini are relying on Cam Thomas to call the signals. There is instability at other key offensive position and the offensive line is still relatively young and inexperienced. Illinois’ ability to run the ball, which it did not have in abundance last season, will be the key to revitalizing the offense.

If only the Illini’s defensive coordinator could don a uniform, the team may not have as many problems on defense. The problem is that Hardy Nickerson is now retired and can only help from the sidelines. The Illini defense lacks the killer instinct and the ability to make the big play. The defense is still relatively young, but Smith has a reputation from the pros as a defensive wizard.

There is nowhere for the Illini to go but up this season. They failed to win a conference game last season en route to a 2-10 season. However, progress will have to measured in small steps.