Illinois Football: Sophomore receiver Collin Dixon showing strong reliability

Illinois Football currently has two stars in Zakhari Franklin and Pat Bryant. After losing two wide receivers Isaiah Williams and Casey Washington to the NFL, the Illini have been lucky to have two stud receivers step right in. Currently, Franklin and Bryant account for 41 total receptions and 552 yards. However, the third wide receiver spot has certainly been a pleasant surprise to start the season. The third wide receiver that has been on the field often has been sophomore Collin Dixon.

Dixon may not be the flashy four-star recruit or the speedy athlete, however, he is simply solid in many facets.

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Through three games, Dixon only has five receptions for 68 yards. However, he has been on the field as a physical and reliable blocker. In addition, his physicality and strong fundamentals have helped him get valuable yards after the catch. That reliability and physicality have helped him get on the field over some of the more athletic slot receivers such as Kenari Wilcher and Hank Beatty.

Dixon is exactly what Illinois football needs to pair alongside the dynamic duo of Zakhari Franklin and Pat Bryant. With starting tight end, Cole Rusk, out for the season, Dixon makes a lot of sense as a physical, short-down option for quarterback Luke Altmyer. Once Franklin and Bryant move on after this year, Dixon should be the Illini’s top receiver.

Another beautiful pass by Donovan Leary, this time to Collin Dixon for the touchdown. pic.twitter.com/HQF1MvPOL4

— Illinois Football Focus (@IlliniFB) April 20, 2024

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