Illinois Football: 3 quick takeaways from dominant win over Akron in Week 1

The Illinois football team looked impressive in its dominant win over MAC opponent Akron to start the season. What did we learn about the Illini.

Illinois head coach Lovie Smith had his team ready as the Fighting Illini played well on offense, defense and special teams against Akron on Saturday, winning 42-3.

After only winning the season opener last season by a touchdown to Kent State, Illinois looked more impressive in this season’s opener as the Fighting Illini controlled the line of scrimmage and did not have any turnovers. Smith had his team ready to play as he continues to try to win over the Illini faithful.

Here is a look at the three takeaways in the Illinois season opener victory over Akron.

1. The Illini defense was dominant

The Illini linebackers and secondary held the Zips to under 130 yards through the air with with an interception as well by junior linebacker Jake Hansen. Even more impressive was the Fighting Illini run defense which held Akron to only 64 yards on the ground on 38 attempts for only 1.7 yards per carry. Hansen also had a fumble recovery on top of his interception to go along with his team leading seven tackles as he was easily the MVP on defense for Illinois.

The Fighting Illini held Akron scoreless the last three quarters after the Zips connected on a 42-yard field goal in the first quarter. Illinois’ third-down defense efficiency was impressive, holding Akron to only converting on 3-of-13. Smith, who also serves as the Fighting Illini’s defensive coordinator, looks to build on this impressive performance.

2. Special teams were solid

Even though there were no big special team plays, there were also no turnovers, missed field goals or kick or punt returns for touchdowns. Junior kicker James McCourt went 6-for-6 on extra points and sophomore Donny Navarro had a solid punt return. Junior punter Blake Hayes had four punts for 184 yards for an average of 46 yards per boot. He also had an impressive 51-yard punt putting the Zips in unfavorable field position. Illinois was consistent and look for special teams to become a strength this season.

3. Brandon Peters was impressive in his debut

The junior quarterback transfer from Michigan played well, passing for 163 yards with three touchdowns through the air. He also ran for 36 yards and a touchdown on the ground. He had a QBR rating of 91 and did not turn the ball over once. Peters looks to continue his impressive play as he leads the Fighting Illini in their first road game, traveling to play UConn in Week 2.