Illini Football: Barry Lunney Jr’s Special Connection to EIU

Respect For the Panthers

Illini Football Offensive Coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. addressed the media on Friday (8/24) prior to Thursday’s (8/29) week one kickoff vs Eastern Illinois. With just 5 days left until gameday, Illinois’ plan of attack on offense is all coming together, after months of offseason preparation.

Undoubtedly, The Fighting Illini will be heavily favored entering the matchup. Illinois offense has an uncharacteristic arsenal of firepower, and they plan to take advantage to the fullest of their ability.

However, Barry Lunney has strong personal reasons for maintaining a high level of respect for this FCS defense.

Personal Connections

During his media availability, Lunney Jr. spoke extremely highly of the Eastern Illinois Panthers.

According to the Illini Football OC, he and Eastern Illinois head coach Chris Wilkerson have quite the history. Furthermore, Barry holds the utmost respect for the Illini’s neighbors to the east.

“I know they play really good defense.” said the Illini play-caller.

Going Way Back

Barry then continued, “I know that because of two reasons. One, it shows up on the film. Number 2, their head coach and I go way back. I have a very strong relationship with Chris Wilkerson, and Sharna (Wilkerson). We worked with them at San Jose State.”

Barry dove even deeper into his personal connection with the Panther HC, stating “I’m actually privileged to know, and privileged to be Peyton, their oldest son who is on the football team… his godparents.” Certainly, it does not get much closer than that.

Furthermore, Barry states “So, we go way back…. a long history with Chris.”

The Illini OC finishes, “I felt like I knew a lot about Eastern Illinois when I knew him years ago, because he had coached there, he played there, and his wife is from there. So, I felt like I kinda was connected to the Eastern Illinois culture, and to see him back there, and to do what he has done in a short fashion, its #1 super impressive and #2 not surprising. Chris is an excellent coach, very detailed. From a defensive perspective, he took time years ago and taught me a lot about defense.” 

Video Credit: Illini Inquirer

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