Indiana Football Opponent Q&A: Getting to know Illinois

Indiana football heads back on the road after a hard-fought win against Wisconsin last weekend to face an inconsistent Illinois Fighting Illini team.

Indiana is 3-6 on the season and 1-5 in the Big Ten — coming off its first win in league play.

Illinois is 4-5 overall and 2-4 in Big Ten play.

HoosierIllustrated.com spoke with ArmchairIllini.com, part of the Full Ride Network, Publisher and owner Alex Kyi to get a better look at Illinois and some of the challenges that the Indiana football program will face on Saturday.

Q: Isaiah Williams is the name that stands out offensively, but who are 1 or 2 other playmakers at that position that have stepped up in recent weeks that IU needs to be aware of?

Kyi: To be honest, Isaiah Williams is the biggest threat in the wide receiving room. Pat Bryant and Casey Washington have been serviceable but do struggle getting separation on a consistent basis. This makes Williams all the more impressive. However, running back Kaden Feagin has come on strong. The 247 true freshman of the week has been a diamond in the rough in a room filled with injury.

Q: The RB room has been hit with some injuries, but look to have Reggie Love back. What will he bring back to the offense playing alongside emerging RB Kaden Feagin? Also, what are the differences in both of their running styles?

Kyi: Reggie Love is not as explosive as Feagin. However, he is a stable, consistent running back. Love has good wiggle, but he does not have one trait that particularly stands out outside of just being a solid back. Feagin should get a majority of the touches even with Love back.

Quick Hitters: Early breakdown and initial thoughts on Illinois

Q: It sounds like Luke Altmyer has a good shot of playing this week — where is he at his best and what are some of the areas that opposing defenses try to take advantage of?

Kyi: Altmyer has been great when he’s had time. His offensive line has provided that the past few weeks and Illinois has improved as a result. Despite this, Altmyer has 2-3 throws a game where he puts it in harms way. He still struggles with turnovers, however Illinois will do their best to move him out of the pocket and get the ball out quick.

Q: Illinois enters with a bottom three defense in numerous categories. What are the 1-2 strengths and weakness of that group?

Kyi: Yep. Bottom three defense says it all. Obviously, Johnny Newton is a monster. He has no business playing college football this year and he should be a first round draft pick this year. The disadvantage is in the secondary play. They are extremely young and thin and their older players have struggled heavily recently.

Q: Illinois has been inconsistent this season — if the Illini win on Saturday give me 1-2 reasons why.

SEE ALSO: ‘We’ve got to come out swinging’: With backs against the wall, Indiana football maintains ‘playoff mentality’ with Illinois on deck

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