OrangeandBlueNews.com - Illinois defense could surpass expectations

August 21, 2009

Illinois' offense averaged close to 30 points per game in 2008, but that wasn't enough to produce a winning record thanks to a porous defense that allowed 32.0 ppg in seven defeats last fall. The Illini are cautiously optimistic, however, their 'D' will be much improved ?

"If you asked me before the spring what this team had to do to be successful, I would have said the offense had to outscore people to win games," OrangeandBlueNews.com publisher Jeff Johnson said. "But I don't think they're going to have to win games 45-42 anymore. They have a young defense, and there will be some struggles, but they could really develop into an effective group."

The strength of the UI defense lies where most coordinators want it - up front. Junior Josh Brent (6-2, 315) and sophomore Corey Liuget (6-3, 290) could prove to be the Big Ten's best interior lineman tandem. A year ago, the two combined for 14 tackles for loss, showing they're more than just pawns in the Illinois' defensive scheme.

Senior end Doug Piclher (6-5, 265), meanwhile, enters his fourth year a starter and is eager for his best year yet, hoping to surpass the 5.5 sacks he recorded in 2007. Senior Antonio James (6-5, 255) could serve as the opposite bookend after a career in a reserve role. He will be pushed by true freshman Michael Buchanan (6-6, 220), a four-star prospect.

"They think they have two future NFL first-round picks in Josh Brent and Corey Liuget, and they have depth there too," Johnson said. "Both of those guys are big, strong and quick and they should get enough rest every game that they can go hard for 50 plays or so. They're going to occupy a lot of attention and take on double-teams all year, which should really free up their teammates.

"Pilcher is a guy that has always been very solid and has done what he's been coached to do but hasn't really had a breakout season. I don't know that he is a guy that could get double-digit sacks but we'll see what he can do this year with the two interior guys putting [Pilcher] in one-on-one scenarios a lot.

"They really like this Buchanan kid. Zook made the comment that he's another Simeon Rice, which is a gross overstatement but shows you how high they are on him. He reminds me more of Matt Shaughnessy from Wisconsin because he's a tall, skinny kid that gets off the ball quickly, is smart and is tough enough to be a factor."

Junior Martez Wilson, one of two five-star recruits for Illinois in the Class of 2007, takes over at middle linebacker for Brit Miller. Wilson has All-American talent but has struggled learning his role and how to best utilize his ability in each of the past two seasons. There was some concern about moving him to the middle - to be the defense's anchor - but the coaches are confident he can handle the responsibility.

"If the defensive line does its job, all Wilson has to do is pick the right hole and attack the running back on first and second down, and then probably help in pass rush when he needs to," Johnson said.

Sophomores Ian Thomas and Russell Ellington are poised to start at the SAM and Will positions, respectively, as long as they continue to practice well in camp. The two have shown the athleticism to be difference-makers but have little experience.

"If I'm nervous as an Illinois' fan it's because the Missouri opener and then that first month slate of Ohio State, Penn State and Michigan State will mark the first time these three play together," Johnson said.

All-American cornerback Vontae Davis turned pro following his junior year but he was not well-liked by many of his defensive teammates. Senior Dere Hicks will start at one cornerback while junior Travon Bellamy and sophomore Tavon Wilson are also vying for a role following an injury to sophomore Miami Thomas.

Senior Donsay Hardeman, an eight-game starter in 2008, should be a top performer at free safety while the Illini are still looking for the right man to play the strong safety position. Junior Garrett Edwards is No. 1 on the depth chart but does not inspire confidence.

"Strong safety is the biggest question mark defensively," Johnson said. "Hardeman, if he lives up to his potential, will be really solid, but they were brutal at strong safety last year and they really need someone that can be a strength for them there."

If the defense can improve its numbers from last year - Illinois ranked ninth in the Big Ten in points allowed (26.6 per game) and sixth in total defense (350.3 yards per game) - the Fighting Illini could be a factor in the league race this fall.

"I think they're an 8-4 or 9-3 team because the chemistry is so much better and the expectations just aren't going to burden this team," Johnson said. "I think Ron Zook really felt the pressure last year and I don't think there was nearly as much pressure as he thought there was. This isn't Florida. He didn't have to go 10-2 a year ago. If they went 7-5, people around here would have been happy.

"So this year, the expectations are again a little lower and the pressure isn't there and I think this team will play more to its potential."

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