The fifth-year running back is the undisputed headliner of a resurgent Illinois team that, at No. 18, has its highest ranking since 2011 and is first in the Big Ten West.
"I wanted this season to be something to remember," Brown said. "Right now we’re just over halfway, and I'm not just happy with the wins. Personally, I think we can push this way further than where it is right now. I'm so excited to see where it can end up."
Illinois visits Nebraska this week, and backup running back Josh McCray, injured in the season opener, could be available to take some of the load off Brown. Lunney puts an emphasis on balance, mixing in the power running game that has long been Bielema's identity with a willingness to take shots in the passing game.
Former Illinois coach Lovie Smith signed Sydney, and this is his third year starting in the secondary. Chase spent two years at Western Michigan before transferring to Illinois in 2019. "One day I might feel like I was in a car wreck," he said, "but the next day, I’m all right and I’m ready to go." Bielema approved the media campaign for Brown. The coach said Brown's work through seven games merits the attention.