Illini Football Adds Versatility to the Running Backs

Illini Football Adds Versatility to the Running Backs

With the recruiting news of yesterday’s (6/28) commitment from Cedric Wyche II, Illini Football has added some versatility to Thad Ward’s intriguing running backs unit. According to 247 Sports, the speedy South Florida native is the 81st-ranked running back in the nation in the class of 2025. In addition, the St. Thomas Aquinas star is a top-150 player at any position, in the talent-ridden Florida market. Wyche is the 11th commitment thus far for Bret Bielema in the class of 2025. After adding the 3-star speed-back, the class now ranks as the 54th-best recruiting class in the nation.

Illinois running backs unit is currently heavy with big, powerful players like Kaden Feagin, Josh McCray, and Jordan Anderson. A key factor for success in Barry Lunney Jr’s power offense. However, Aidan Laughery and Ca’lil Valentine need assistance in adding speed and balance to the Illini’s offense to avoid becoming one-dimensional.

1000% committed To The University Of Illinois🧡🤍 #GoFightingILLNI #AGTG @STA_Football @wardth09 @BretBielema @CoachHarriott @EugeneBethea1 @MohrRecruiting @Andrew_Ivins @Rivals@adamgorney pic.twitter.com/wv9TDAc1k5

— Cedric Wyche ll (@CedricWyche_ll) June 29, 2024

Cedric’s Film

Though speed is his specialty, size is certainly not a problem for Cedric. He stands in at 5’10, and 200lbs, with a very strong lower frame. On film, you can see Wyche lower his shoulder at the goal line and punch his way through talented Florida defenses for scores. In addition, using his strength to break tackles and create big plays for St. Thomas Aquinas.

Of course, being strong comes in handy for blocking in the passing game as well. Cedric’s highlight reel shows that, when needed, he is not afraid to step up and hit blitzing defenders. To his advantage, being strong in pass protection further strengthens Wyche’s chances of getting on the field earlier in his career.

However, Cedric sets himself apart with dangerous speed. When he flips the burners on, he is a nightmare for defensive coordinators. The Ft. Lauderdale native uses his quickness to turn the corner on stretch plays, and breakaway up the sideline for long gains. Much like what Chase Brown was able to bring to the Illini’s offense in 2021-2022. In addition to his speed, when Cedric gets rolling, his strength comes into play, and making a tackle on him in the open field is a tough task to handle.

WATCH HIS FILM HERE 

Credit: From Cedrick Wyche II on “X” (@cedricwyche_II) – 6/28/24

Thank you for reading Armchair Illini. For more Illinois Athletics and Big Ten content from Armchair Illini, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.  For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email Alex Kyi at [email protected].