Illinois takes to the practice field in less than two weeks, and Orange and Blue New is gearing up for full coverage of training camp.

One of the fun things about covering camp is getting a first look at the newcomers. Inevitably, high expectations give way to reality with some of the freshmen, but there's always a handful of newbies who jump out and show early on that they belong.

In the latest story in our Illinois football preview series, Orange and Blue News breaks out our freshmen watch list; eight true and redshirt freshmen who we believe could make some noise and compete for playing time in the upcoming season.

MORE: BTN's Tom Dienhart talks Illini | Top 20 Illini for 2017 | Dudek back in action | Five questions as Illini open camp