Poor tackling new Illini defense's 'downfall' in concerning debut: 'We expect more out of ourselves'
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Illinois defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck emphasized tackling fundamentals at halftime rather than schematic changes during their season-opening game against UAB.
- Despite generating significant pressure in the backfield, Illinois struggled with missed tackles, particularly among linebackers, allowing UAB to run effectively in the first half.
- UAB ran 31 times for 126 yards and controlled possession for over 22 minutes in the first half, highlighting Illinois' difficulty in stopping the run.
- Pro Football Focus credited Illinois with 16 missed tackles in the game, nearly double their average missed tackles per game from the previous season and 2024.
- Illinois ultimately won the game 42-23, but tackling issues remain a concern under Hauck's new defensive scheme.
