Chayce Crouch out as Illini QB
During a Monday press conference, Lovie Smith officially announced that Chayce Crouch would no longer be the starting quarterback.
Honestly, it’s probably overdue and it’s definitely time to see what the other guys can do. Crouch has had plenty of opportunities this season, and as much as I’d love to see him step out there and succeed, he has not been up to par this season as the Illini passing game has been basically nonexistent.
The two favorites to take the job are Jeff George Jr. — son of former Illini QB and №1 pick in the 1990 draft Jeff George— or true freshman Cam Thomas.
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Now, there are pletny of reasons for both sides to get the start, but if I had my pick, I’d roll with Cam Thomas.
Thomas is a true freshman and yes, it would hurt to burn his redshirt, but in what we’ve seen from George it has not necessarily been impressive. Thomas is a mobile quarterback that has all of the tools to be a threat in both the running and passing game. He has an electric arm and is quick enough to scramble if the line continues to strugle.
On the other hand, George could definitely show up if he’s given the opportunity. He also has a big arm, and would definitely be a step up from the play of late. In his appaerances with the Illini so far, he’s shown some flashes of play-making ability, but has been prone to turnovers. That’s not to say that he cannot get over that, but it’s something to keep in mind when seeing how this battle unfolds this week.
It’ll defintiely be interesting to see who the Illini end up going with, simply because both options are very different. George would fit the more typical Lovie Smith QB — a pocket passer with a big arm who can make plays down the field and get it to the big receivers we have — Mikey Dudek and Malik Turner, remember those guys? — and could really revamp the passing game. Thomas would be an upgrade in the passing game as well, but a lot of his game comes from his speed and what he can do with his legs.
Anyway, who would you rather see out there in Iowa City on Saturday? Tweet us your answers and make sure to vote on our poll on Twitter.
Twitter: @BarstoolILL
