By Mario williams
At the 2016 Big Ten media days in Chicago, Illinois head coach Lovie Smith fully admitted that his program isn’t where he wants it to be.
While there are seniors returning and much leadership on the team, Illinois still isn’t the top-tier Big Ten team it would like to be.
The Illini were picked to finish sixth in the Big Ten West, but Smith and his team still have quite some hope.
“We couldn’t be more excited to have an opportunity to play in the Big Ten Conference,” Lovie said. “You think about some of the top teams competing for championships each year … we’re not there yet. But in time, we would like to be a part of that conversation also.”
Much of what Illinois lacks right now is depth. The Illini haven’t really had a traditional fullback since 2011 in Jay Porsch. Porsch then transferred to Auburn.
“Depth in certain positions is where we need more people at,” quarterback Wes Lunt said. “That’s the main thing right now. That’s the thing you’re going to see with Coach Smith. He’s going to change the recruiting, and he’s going to get who he wants. He’s going to control Chicago; I really believe that.”
However, Smith did note that Illinois will have a fullback on its roster. But that decision hasn’t been made yet. Nathan Echard and Austin Roberts could potentially fill the role. The head coach believes that having a fullback for the team feels “natural to him.”
Illinois’ running game ranked last in the conference last season.
“It’s one thing to spread it out, but there comes a time when you talk Big Ten football, it’s a fullback and a tailback,” Smith said. “You talk to any tailback, they’re always excited to have someone shield things for when they come through.”
While some depth may be lacking and while Illinois may not be a team with much discussion surrounding it, Smith is optimistic that will change.
Recruiting is something that will be key if Smith wants to transform the Illini.
The head coach has noted he plans to recruit athletes from all across the Chicagoland area, Indianapolis, and St. Louis. Smith’s experience in coaching and his upbringing could also potentially be an addition to his recruiting style. Smith is from Gladewater, Texas, and he has coached in St. Louis, Chicago, and Tampa.
His recruiting could reach pretty far.
“Recruiting has gone well, and they’re listening to us,” Smith said. “They’re giving us a chance. I knew coming in that we had to sell our brand, and I know we’ve covered a lot of ground talking to our alumni. Letting them know there’s a new day, and a rebirth in our program.”
Illinois is in the hands of a coach with a lot of experience and in years to come could be tough competition in the Big Ten.
“He’s changed the culture a lot,” senior Dawuane Smoot said. “He definitely has that pro mentality. Everyone is buying into his system.