Team Recruiting Countdown: No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini

No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini (Big Ten No. 4)

2008 Haul: 28 signees, 0 AC100

Scouting Report:

After a two-win season in 2006, a few eyebrows were raised when Ron Zook and the Illini landed a top-15 class last season. After a nine-win season and a Rose Bowl bid, it should not be a surprise that the 2008 recruiting class is once again in the top-20. Although not nearly as star-studded as last season, this class still has a lot of nice pieces.

Illinois still has the ability to offer very early playing time to true freshmen at a variety of positions. This is, and will always be, a big draw for young talent from around the nation. Nearly every position on this team could use depth or an upgrade. It doesn’t help that the Illini lose a large group of upper class defenders this season.

Losing three of four starting defensive backs has created spots for young secondary prospects to come in and compete for playing time right away. Patrick Nixon (Jacksonville, Fla.) and Tavon Wilson (Washington, D.C.) add depth to the corner spot. Nixon will compete for the starting job right away. A pair of in-state talents will try to replace J Leman at middle linebacker: Nate Palmer (Chicago, Ill.) and Supo Sanni (Homewood, Ill.). Defensive tackle Reggie Ellis (Washington, D.C.), the top player from the D.C. area, should step in and help bolster the defensive line.


After two great season from Rashard Mendenhall, the running back position needed to be addressed in this class. Jason Ford (Belleville, Ill.) and Mikel LaShoure (Champaign, Ill.) could also see the field early in ’08. Other than Arrelious Benn, Juice Williams does not have many pass catching options on the outside. That will no longer be an issue. Cordale Scott (Cleveland, Ohio) and Alfred Jenkins (Jacksonville, Fla.) could both play early and often. Illini fans, do not forget about Florida Gator transfer Jarred Fayson too.

Once again, Ron Zook and staff have done a great job scouring the nation for talent. Illinois landed four kids from Florida, four from Ohio, three from Pennsylvania and one each from Georgia and North Carolina. The Washington, D.C. area has been the bailey wick of assistant coach Mike Lockley’s recruiting efforts. Lockley has seen much success in the area with names like Vontae Davis and Benn. In 2008, the Illini landed four nice prospects from the District of Columbia.

Top Prospect: Corey Luiget – DE – Hialeah, Fla. (6-4, 260)

Versatility comes to mind when dealing with Mr. Luiget. He lined up at quarterback, tight end, wide receiver and defensive end in high school. The athleticism is apparent for a player of his size. He has solid feet and drive, using good power and strength in both run and pass situations. He will be able to pursue backside with his speed and agility.

He is still raw, however. His pad level, hand technique, stance, tackling form and get off will all need refinement. These are all things that can be corrected with solid coaching. His natural athletic ability, strength, agility for a prospect with his size and frame are un-teachable. Luiget, Reggie Eillis and last season’s prize recruit Martez Wilson should create a formidable group within the defensive front.

Best of the Rest:

Hubie Graham – TE – Scranton, Pa. (6-4, 230)
Graham Poisac – OL – Lemont, Ill. (6-6, 310)
Cordale Scott – WR – Cleveland, Ohio (6-3, 205)
Patrick Nixon – CB – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 180)
Reggie Ellis – DT – Washington, D.C. (6-2, 290)

Sleeper: Alfred Jenkins – WR – Jacksonville, Fla. (6-0, 180)

Playing time has always been a major selling point for Ron Zook and his staff. The state of Florida has also been a great asset to the Illini staff. Jenkins brings these aspects together as the Jacksonville native will press for playing time as soon as he gets to campus. He is a big play threat, particularly in the vertical passing attack. Solid hands, great acceleration/speed combined with good body control and open field wiggle put this kid on the field immediately in Champaign.

2008 Sleepers

The term role player has long been regarded as one with negative connotations. On a basketball court, it’s a scrappy, less-talented ball player who can do a little bit of everything. On a baseball diamond, it’s the utility infielder who will play any position you ask him to.

In recruiting classes, the “role players” can end up being stars.

Yes, the top-notch, five-star type players are needed if one expects to win a national championship in college football these days. But staying competitive in today’s NCAA landscape means developing talent better than the next guy. That is where the two-and three-star players come in. They are the underlying foundation of depth on conference championship teams.

Just ask Oklahoma, Ohio State, Alabama, West Virginia or Wisconsin.



The Buckeyes and Crimson Tide both had linebackers recently who were not only high draft picks but are now NFL stars: A.J. Hawk and DeMeco Ryans. Both were three-star prospects coming out of high school.

Oklahoma’s record-setting freshman quarterback, Sam Bradford, was not a big-time recruit.

Pat White and Steve Slaton were both asked to play other positions – by LSU and Maryland respectively –  coming out of high school until Rich Rodriguez and WVU gave them a shot in the backfield. Next season, White is likely to become the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher from the quarterback position.

Wisconsin’s bruising tailback P.J. Hill was a two-star fullback and nine defensive starters for the Badgers were ranked three-stars or lower coming out of the prep ranks.

So who are those sleepers this season? Here are some mid-level prospects who might have a chance at being stars for their school of choice:

Darius Ashley        Cincinnati, OH    RB    5’9” 190    Louisville

This kid also was the leader and main factor on a state championship football team. This was the highest division of play in Ohio, though, so no small feat. He is tough. He is fast and he wins. Steve Kragthorpe and company got a nice player in Ashley.

Willie Bohannon        Mobile, AL        DE    6’3” 240    Tennessee

Bohannon has the size/speed combination that is so valuable to defensive coordinators. He has great pass rush ability as well as lateral quickness in the run game. He played very physical football in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. Now all John Chavis has to figure out is where to play him.

Cody Bruns            Prosser, WA        WR    5’11” 185    Washington

This little over-achiever is going to be a great receiving option for Husky quarterback Jake Locker. He is just a bit too short and just a bit too slow, right? Well, Bruns simply gets the job done. He set national high school career receiving records with 304 career receptions for 5,080 yards and 72 touchdowns. He is too smart a player not to be successful.

Alfred Jenkins        Jacksonville, FL    WR    6’ 178        Illinois

There is no secret that freshmen will be given the shot to play at Illinois. Jenkins is no exception. He has great speed and will make things happen with the ball in his hands. Juice Williams will need another receiving option next season across from Arrelious Benn, and Jenkins could be the guy.

Wes Kemp            St. Louis, MO    WR    6’4” 226    Missouri

Originally headed to Wisconsin, Kemp recently switched to the Tigers. He might be moved to tight end, and in Gary Pinkel’s system, he is a perfect fit. His size and athleticism make him an ideal piece to the Pinkel offensive puzzle. He will be a faster, slightly smaller version of Martin Rucker.

D’anton Lynn        Celina, TX        S    6’1” 180    Penn State

Penn State dipped into Texas to pull an underrated defensive back prospect. Lynn will be very good against the run. His aggressive, attacking style of play allows him to play down in the box. His speed and athleticism give him the ability to play sideline-to-sideline.

Kyle Parker            Jacksonville, FL    QB    6’ 192”    Clemson

This Todd Reesing look-alike played very well at the Under Armour All-American Game. He has such a natural feel for the game, that it might be hard to keep him off the field. He goes through his progressions very quickly and accurately. Watch out Willy Korn!

Curt Phillips            Kingsport, TN    QB    6’3” 218    Wisconsin

This kid is the complete package of physical ability at the quarterback position. He has nice height and a well-built, muscular frame. His arm strength is more than adequate. It is his athleticism that makes him so intriguing. He has the ability to be a run option from out of the backfield. Phillips gained 9,206 total yards and was responsible for 115 touchdowns over three seasons.

James Vandenberg        Keokuk, IA        QB    6’2” 185    Iowa

Vandenberg leaves Keokuk High with almost sole possession of the Iowa state passing record book. He also led his team to the 3A state championship. On film, he shows nice footwork and nice fundamentals. He is productive, he is a winner and he has nice technique. That is all I need to know.

Rod Wilks            Smyrna, TN        WR    6’2” 205    Tennessee

Wilks has been compared to Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals. He is not quite that physically gifted but he certainly plays a similar brand of football. In fact, Wilks might even be a touch faster than Mr. Fitzgerald. He likes the contact and will make the tough catch. Wilks will be a playmaker in Knoxville.

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Here are some guys who are not so much sleepers as they are underrated. These five names are all outside of the top-125 in the Athlon Consensus 100, but all should be in the top-100.

Nick Cody            Brush Prairie, WA    OL    6’5” 290    Oregon

This young offensive tackle may be the most underrated prospect in the nation. Cody has a great story and a great head on his shoulders. He is a well-grounded, hard-working mauler along the offensive line. He looks to bury defenders on every play and with his size could be an all-Pac-10 type player. I had a chance to interview him during his live commitment.

Listen Here

Jarmon Fortson        Columbus, GA    WR    6’3” 218    Florida State

Fortson put on a show in the Georgia Dome during the 3A state semi-finals. He led his team to 20 unanswered points in the final six minutes of play to pull off the miraculous comeback 26-24. He made spectacular catch after spectacular catch. The big, physical receiver will be a threat in all levels of the passing game.

Max Tuioti-Mariner        Corona, CA        OL    6’4” 300    Colorado

This kid is a beast. He, like Cody, looks to bury defenders on every play. It is this killer instinct that transforms physically limited solid players into all-conference type bruisers. Stick him next to true freshman starter Ryan Miller and the left side of the Colorado offensive line is set for years to come.

Darron Thomas        Aldine, TX        ATH    6’4” 205    Oregon

The Ducks are getting a dynamic playmaker in Mr. Thomas. He has lightning-quick footwork and his acceleration is second to none. I would like to see him get a shot at quarterback as the Chip Kelly system would fit his skills perfectly. He does lack the arm strength coaches like, but he has good touch and accuracy.

MarQueis Gray        Indianapolis, IN    QB    6’4” 220    Minnesota

Arguably the second-best dual-threat quarterback behind Terrelle Pryor, Gray is a dynamic playmaker. This kid has the speed to get downfield in a hurry. He will be a great fit in the spread offense that Tim Brewster is trying to install. He has great acceleration, size and arm strength. Gray is a much more polished passer than a guy like Darron Thomas.

Three Shades of Orange

Miami is looking at maybe its best recruiting class of all-time. That is a quote from Gery Ferman of CaneSport.com. Some things will have to fall the Canes' way but it is possible. Rumors are that Patrick Johnson will not be a Cane. Most likely ending up a Gator. But Arthur Brown and now local speedster Travis Benjamin is on board. Throw in a Matt Patchan, Tommy Streeter and Ben Jones and Randy Shannon has a top-5 class. It will be interesting to see if Benjamin gets moved to defense with the loss of Johnson. Look for Sean Speance to move back to safety as well.

Illinois continues its excellent work on the recruiting trail. After landing the top player from D.C., Reggie Ellis, snagging Corey Luiget from FLA, The Zooker has stolen a top-flight wide receiver from right under Jim Tressell and OSU's nose. Glenville's Cordale Scott committed to Illinois over OSU. Illinois is the fifth team to come into the state of Ohio this season and pull a top-10 prospect (Mich, ND, ILL, PSU and UGA/FL for Zebrie Sanders). Illinois is once again having a great class.

The Cuse landed a future play-maker on Friday. Syracuse might be considered a bit of a surprise as Averin Collier committed to the Orange over the Pitt Panthers. Collier's older borhter plays for Pittsburgh. Any good news is welcomed news to the limping Syracuse program. The Churchville RB is arguably the best player in the state of New York and will enroll early.

Decommitment Party Coming to a Town Near You

Working for Rivals.com, one realizes that a 'verbal commitment' is just that. A spoken agreement between two parties. In the past a 'commitment' meant more. Realistically, roughly 90% of commitments stick and hold true.

Its seems recently that with all the major coaching moves, the word 'decommitted' has come up more and more often....

It all started with Nebraska and Bill Callahan getting axed...
Blaine Gabbert - QB (Ballwin, MO) Nebraska --> Missouri
Jonas Gray - RB (Detroit, MI) Nebraska --> Notre Dame
Trevor Robinson - OL (Elkhorn, NE) Nebraska --> ???
Sean Mohler - LB (Newport Beach, CA) Nebraska --> Colorado
D.J. Woods - WR (Strongville, OH) Nebraska --> West Virginia

This, on the same day that WVU lands another wide receiver named J.D. Woods from Naples, FL. So DJ Woods and JD Woods both wideouts, both commit to same school on the same day? Am I the only one who finds that weird?

Nebraska stopped the bleeding a bit when Bo Pelini hired Barney Cotton...
Ben Cotton - TE (Ames, IA) Louisville --> Nebraska

Then Dennis Franchione got lopped and Oklahoma got lucky...
Markelle Martin - S (Wichita Falls, TX) Texas A&M --> Oklahoma

But then Mike Sherman and the Aggies returned the favor...
Jeff Fuller - WR (McKinney, TX) Oklahoma --> Texas A&M

UCLA, Arkansas, and Georgia Tech have removed their HC's and it cost them...
Kemonte Bateman - WR (Los Angeles, CA) UCLA --> Arizona St
Sean Renfree - QB (Scottsdale, AZ) Georgia Tech --> ???
Jarius Wright - WR (Warren, AR) Arkansas --> ???

Keep an eye on E.J. Woods and Aundre Dean as well as their commitments to UCLA still hang in the balance.

Miami recently lost one of its fine linebacker commits...
Lerentee McCray - LB (Dunnellon, FL) Miami --> ???

This makes the tenuous commitment of Patrick Johnson even that more fragile.

Bret Bielema and Wisconsin have been poaching a bit...
Brandon Kelly - DE (Eden Prairie, MN) Minnesota --> Wisconsin
Anthony Mains - DE (Naples, FL) South Florida --> Wisconsin

A 6-6, 250 lb quarterback was not satisfied with one decommitment, he had to go for two...
D.C. Jefferson - QB (Winterhaven, FL) Rutgers --> LSU --> Rutgers

LSU has lost two QB commits in the last two weeks (Darron Thomas).

Now there is a rumor that Lynn Katoa is uneasy with his commitment to Colorado. Oklahoma looks to be a player.

Just a few more...
London Davis - TE (Cahokia, IL) Missouri --> Illinois
D.J. Marshall - DE (Mesquite, TX) Iowa State --> Kansas
Blair Irvin - DB (Patterson, LA) Auburn --> West Virginia

This Week's Podcast

Each week The Visitor, yours truly, does four podcasts for his current employer Athlon Sports. The National Recruiting Blitz will be posted permanently on this here front page. I am joined by old friends from throughout the Rivals.com network to bring you the latest and hottest news in the world of recruiting.

This week I am joined by Tim O'Halloran of EdgyTim.com to break down the hot streak the Illinois Fighting Illini are on. Alabama, Georgia and Virginia are also discussed.

The other three can be found in the Audio Catalog on AthlonSports.com

The College Fantasy Red Zone is a weekly trip through the NCAA Fantasy landscape. We give you sleeper picks, updates on every BCS game, injury reports and start-or-sit discussions.

The NFL Fantasy Scouting Report is look around the world of NFL fantasy football. Athlon Sports' own Kelly and Dan Grogan join me every week to give you free agent pick-ups, the "Can't Miss-High Risk" segment and always injury reports and start/sit discussions.

Inside The Paint is Athlon Sports brief trip around the nation within the world of College Hoops. Senior editor Mitch Light joins me each week to talk NCAA hoops.

The Fighting Illini Smokin Hot!

Ron Zook is a recruiter. He may have learned how to coach in 2007 but he certainly hasn't forgot how to recruit. Or better yet, Mike Locksley has learned from Master Zooker and is now applying the lessons. These kids have no chance against powers such as those. Needless-to-say Illinois is not only having a great run on the field but off of it as well.

Since October 21st The Zooker, Locksley and Co. have been roaring through the recruiting trail landing 8 commitments. They are arguably the hottest team in recruiting and it all started with a big defensive lineman from Florida.

Corey Luiget (who may or may not be having cold feet) is a 6-3, 260 lb defensive dynamo who chose Illinois over LSU, FSU, Va. Tech, Tennessee, Ohio St and South Florida. Ron Zook continues to go into the south, particularly Florida, and pull talented kids.

Another area that Zook and the Illini have been abel to exploit: District of Columbia. Names like Regis Benn and Vontae Davis have been huge pulls from that area. of the country. Reggie Ellis, a defensive tackle listed at 6-2, 280 lb, is considered by many the top player in D.C. this year. He recently committed to Illinois.

The Eight:
Corey Luiget - DE 6-3, 260 (Hialeah, FL) 4-star
Reggie Ellis - DT 6-2, 280 (Washington, DC) 4-star
Hubie Graham - TE 6-4, 230 (Scranton, PA) 4-star
Jason Ford - RB 5-10, 210 (Belleville, IL) 3-star
Mikel LeShoure - RB 6, 220 (Champaign, IL) 3-star
Fred Sykes - WR 6, 180 (Tampa, FL) 3-star
Supo Sanni - LB 6-2, 200 (Homewood, IL) 3-star
Russell Ellington - LB 6-2, 207 (Homewood, IL) 2-star

Mike Locksley, who will get looks at any of the new jobs (Georgia Tech anyone?), is responsible for landing five of those eight kids. He is a serious up-and-comer!

I wonder what former Michigan State head coach John L. Smith thinks?