Last season for the Illini, James McCourt took the reins and performed well. He was 13-of-19 overall including 4-of-5 from 50 yards or more. Let’s not forget that kick against Wisconsin too. The predecessor to McCourt was Chase McLaughlin.
McLaughlin was one of the best kickers to ever come through the program. He finished his senior year making every extra point and going 20-of-25 overall, which included 4-of-6 from 50 yards or more.
Illinois’ punter has also been amazing over the past couple of years. Blake Hayes came from Australia and has been an absolute field changer for the Orange and Blue.