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Illinois focuses on run plays as they prepare for Southern Illinois

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 2:47 PM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Illinois focuses on run plays as they prepare for Southern Illinois

Summary

Illinois offensive players and assistant coaches spoke after a practice on September 16, as they prepare for their game against Southern Illinois on Saturday. The Illini seek more big plays from their run game, having recorded only three chunk plays so far this season. Running backs Ca'Lil Valentine and Aidan Laughery have contributed positively, but last week's game against Duke saw no significant gains on the ground. Illinois has maintained good pass protection, allowing zero sacks and showcasing quarterback Katin Houser's quick decision-making. Meanwhile, injuries along the offensive line have prompted discussions about next-man-up mentality among players like Christian Martin and Brandon Hansen.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Illinois practices ahead of game versus Southern Illinois on Saturday
•Team emphasizes need for more chunk runs after slow gains last week
•Katin Houser has not been sacked, tying him with others in the conference
•Injuries challenge the offensive line's depth and chemistry

Latest Updates

2:47 PMYahoo Sports — Quick hits: Chunk run plays a focus for Illini offense

What they're saying

"
Sep. 16—Select offensive players and assistant coaches were available after Illinois' Tuesday practice at Gies Memorial Stadium. Here's some of what they had to say as the Illini prepare to face Southern Illinois on Saturday afternoon, courtesy Illinois beat writer Scott Richey: Looking for greater gains The read on Illinois' ability to run the ball through two games has been mostly positive. ...
— Yahoo Sports

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