Illini Quarterback Feeling “A Different Kind of Loose” Entering 2024

Looking Back to 2023

Altmyer put on a solid performance in Champaign during 2023. The Starkville, MS native totaled up 1,883 yards and 13 touchdowns, over 9 games, in his first season in the Big Ten.

Of course, the sophomore quarterback (at the time) did also have 10 interceptions. However, 4 of those turnovers came early in the season vs Penn State.

Beyond his bad performance vs the Nittany Lions in his first-ever Big Ten matchup, Altmyer seemed to be warming up as the leader of the this Illinois offense. However, Luke’s 2023 campaign was unfortunately cut short by a concussion suffered in week 9 of the season vs Minnesota. Backup quarterback John Paddock stepped in for the final 3 games, and despite his heroic efforts, the Illini fell short of a bowl game at 5-7.

Altmyer “Really Really Confident” Entering the 2024 Season

Luke is set on flipping the narrative in Champaign. Much like the Illini staff, he is confident that Illinois can bounce back from 2023, and move the program forward. Seemingly, Luke also appears to possess a much larger belief in himself, after facing his own trials and tribulations.

As the program kicks off training camp in Champaign, Altmyer opened up to Illini media about his newly found confidence in himself, as well as the program entering 2024.

Quote from Altmyer

When asked where he has improved most from last year, Luke stated “A lot of areas. Mentally, I think most importantly. Coming off of last season, not having the season I wanted to have,”. The Illini QB adds “But man, I really think it was the season I needed to have. Just for so many areas of my life. Experienced suffering in a lot of ways, and growing pains. It’s helped me gain perspective, helped me grow my leadership, and my faith.” Furthermore, the Junior leader states “I can really tell, even in these first few days, I feel a different kind of loose. I’m really, really confident, and looking forward to a really big year.”

Video Credit: Illini Inquirer

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