While the Illinois Fighting Illini are not one of the top teams in the Big Ten, they do play an interesting (and very stereotypical “Big Ten” brand of football) that could cause some challenges for the Oregon Ducks this season.
Oregon is going to be making some pretty big adjustments this year and getting used to consistently seeing the brand of football that Illinois wants to play is going to be one of them. That said, Oregon is a physical team these days thanks to the way Dan Lanning has shaped the roster.
It’s almost like he has experience in building good teams or something.
As we get set for the 2024 Oregon football season, let’s take a look at a few Illinois football players that Oregon football fans should be aware of.
No. 1: Pat Bryant - Wide receiver
A senior wide receiver for Bret Bielema’s Illinois Fighting Illini, Pat Bryant can cause headaches for opposing defensive backs. While Illinois isn’t known for just routinely torching defenses through the air, Bryant will still challenge folks as he brings size and speed to this offense.
Last season, Bryant managed to record a total of seven touchdown catches for the Fighting Illini. He’s a productive receiver. His breakout performance against the Indiana Hoosiers where he caught seven passes for 131 yards and a touchdown is a great example of that.
No. 2: Seth Coleman - Linebacker
Seth Coleman is a very productive pass rusher for the Illinois Fighting Illini defense. During the 2023 Illinois football season, Coleman managed to earn all-Big Ten honorable mention honors thanks to the way he recorded 50 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and six sacks during the 12 games he started.
Oregon’s offense line will need to account for Coleman given the level of experience he has and the way he’s able to put pressure on opposing offenses. There’s a good chance the Ducks will be a little busy trying to keep up with him.
No. 3: Gabe Jacas: Linebacker
Hey look, another really impressive linebacker for the Illinois Fighting Illini. Gabe Jacas is heading into his junior season and he’s already shown plenty of impressive potential. Back during his freshman season, Jacas earned freshman All-American honors for the way he helped the Fighting Illini on the field.
Last season, Jacas started all 12 games and displayed a bit of versatility for the Illinois defense. With the way he’s able to compliment Coleman, Jacas is a pass rushing threat that Oregon will need to keep tabs on.