CHICAGO — Chase McLaughlin was automatic inside 40 yards the last two seasons, missing just one field goal in 2016. Beyond that was a different proposition in his first two years as Illinois' full-time kicker.
McLaughlin showed off his extended range again Saturday against South Florida. The redshirt senior Texan connected from 26, 46, 53 and 41 yards to provide most of the Illini's points in what turned into a 25-19 South Florida victory. His 53-yarder was his third from 50-plus this year alone after he hit a career-best 54-yard field goal against Western Illinois.
"I think the big thing is just confidence — going out there knowing you can make the play and help the team win," McLaughlin said.