Illinois Fighting Illini still have four top-150 players on CFB insider’s list

The Illinois Fighting Illini entered a high-profile matchup with Indiana earlier this year as the number nine team in the country. Since then, they’ve stumbled out of the top 25. It’s been a disaster since before that game, but it’s not necessarily due to a lack of talent. The Fighting Illini still, according to one insider who ranked the best college players, have four top-150 college football stars.

Illinois lands 4 top-150 players from insider

The Illinois Fighting Illini may or may not work back into the top 25, but their playoff hopes are likely gone. They weren’t a true contender this year, but surging to being the ninth-ranked team in the country gave them some hope. They did that and will try to return to the high ranks of college football because of some incredible talent on the roster. That begins with edge rusher Gabe Jacas.

CBS Sports insider Blake Brockermeyer listed the top 150 players so far, and Jacas ranked 68. “Skilled edge rusher who has been living in opponents’ backfields, using a mix of speed-to-power moves. High-IQ player who reacts quickly to offensive tackles and exploits miscues. His skills project well to the next level,” Brockermeyer wrote. Jacas paced the Illini, but he had some counterparts nearby.

Wide receiver Hank Beatty was ranked 74th. “An all-around weapon who is on a heater this year. Precise route runner who always seems to be open and catches everything near him. Shows good explosion after the catch, with the speed to separate and go the distance,” the insider noted. He’s been a crucial cog in helping QB Luke Altmyyer succeed. Speaking of, Altmyer was next up at 95 overall.

“Altmyer is a player you want on your team. A leader who has caught fire over the last few weeks, he brings tons of experience and has lived through every high and low of his career. Shows good ball placement, delivers on time, and makes smart decisions,” Brockermeyer declared. Altmyer hasn’t been able to overcome some of the team’s shortcomings, but he’s been far from the problem.

Finally, offensive tackle Melvin Priestly brought up the rear. He was ranked 136. “Physical, tough-minded enforcer who doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. Strong run blocker who can move defenders off the line of scrimmage and holds up well in pass protection. Shows excellent hips and hands and consistently finishes his blocks,” the insider concluded. All this talent is why Illinois has been relevant and why it’ll continue to win games this season.

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