You hear most teams use the phrase, “establishing the run”, when talking about how to open up its offense. Offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. wants to establish it and then some next season, calling it “the centerpiece” of the offense.
Last season, the run game was a bit lackluster. It ranked bottom six in the Big Ten in yards per game (138.1) and 100th nationally in yards per carry (3.8). While it didn’t statistically jump off the page, Lunney still believes there were games where it passed the eye
test.
“We always want to run the ball well…what that looks like statistically doesn’t really move the needle for me as much as what it looks like functionally,” Lunney said. “Obviously, when you have a good running day, it shows up in the box score, but there’s days we’ve ran the ball well and the statistical part of it has not moved the needle as much as you would want.”
With an almost entirely new offensive line as well as new backs and tight ends, Illinois is using training camp as a way to integrate their skill sets into the offense. Rather than forcing players into a system, Lunney says they are allowing the offense to adapt to their strengths.
“It’s relatively a whole new crew up front and new coaching staff, new flavor at running back, at tight end. So there’s different vantage points there,” Lunney said. “We’re always growing what we’re trying to do and tailor our run game to the strength of our backs and to our line and tight ends. I felt good about what we accomplished in the spring.”
Returning veterans Ca’Lil Valentine and Aiden Laughery are leading the running back room this season. Both coming off of solid years, Illinois will lean on their experience with not only a high usage but being able to lead by example for younger backs in the room.
“We have the experience in our room, that’s something that we’re trying to go out there every day and practice and be those leaders,” Laughery said. “We’ve done it before. We’ve been in the games. We’ve had the experience.”
The Illini should also get contributions from Jordan Anderson, who has transitioned back to RB after spending some time as a tight end. He’ll offer Illinois power in short-yardage situations.
Another back to keep an eye on as he develops is freshman Javari Barnett. The former three-star recruit was the #37 ranked RB coming out of high school and is a big back who blends speed and power.
This season’s running back room blends experience and intriguing young talent. With veterans running the show, Illinois’ offense can take yet another leap this season.
