Illinois Football: Luke Altmyer Continues to Impress

Luke Altmyer Raises Expectations for Illinois Football

Quarterback Luke Altmyer‘s newly adapted confidence has raised the floor for this 2024 Illinois Football team. The Illini are undefeated after 3, entering Nebraska week, with excitement surrounding the program that was unforeseen by many before the season. No doubt, highly in part due to the leadership and production Illinois is currently getting out of Altmyer.

Thus far, the Junior has built a solid 68.1 QBR, totaling 647 yards, and 6 touchdowns through 3 weeks. Barry Lunney Jr‘s offense looks much improved in the passing attack from 2023, thanks to the work Luke has continually put into himself physically, mentally, and spiritually during the offseason

Big tests lie ahead for Altmyer and Illinois Football. However, the Illini faithful have growing confidence they can have a special season on the shoulders of #9.

Sep 7, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer (9) celebrates a win over the Kansas Jayhawks at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

Bielema on Altmyer’s Progression

Coach Bret Bielema has continued to remain highly impressed with Luke, and his progression. His leadership is starting to wear off on the youth of the room, which is exciting for the Illini head coach.

“I’ve seen him (Luke) in some QB meetings.” says Bielema. “It’s the confidence that he is speaking with. What’s really been fun for me is listening to our other quarterbacks talk to him about preparing for a game, because they are also preparing themselves for that moment.”

Of course, vocal leadership has not always been a strength for Altmyer. A rollercoaster 2023 season created some mental obstacles for Luke. Furthermore, stressing the need to focus on himself, and how he can improve off the field, to effect his game on the field.  He has done so, and the Illini staff is highly impressed.

“I’ve said it all along. You learn more from moments of adversity than you do moments of success. Luke unfortunately went through some moments last year, that were hard to go through for him personally, and for us as a team. To come out on the other side of it in a positive light was a true testament to him.”

Credit: Illini Athletics