Illinois Football: True Freshman Ca’lil Valentine helps Seal Victory

Illinois football landed an absolutely massive victory on Saturday evening. In front of a sell-out crowd, the Illini planted their flag in the ground and beat the number 19 ranked, Kansas Jayhawks 23-17. The game was an up-and-down affair. The Illini defense undoubtedly handled their own. Xavier Scott showed all of college football that he is a star in the making. Scott had two important interceptions and a huge pick-six to help regain momentum. However, the game was helped sealed off by a true freshman. Ca’lil Valentine was a strong recruiting win for the Illini all the way from Chandler, Arizona.

As a true freshman, Valentine showed glimpses of brilliance and helped the Illini seal a marquee win.

A great change of pace

Look, Illinois has some tanks in the running back room. Kaden Feagin is a sophomore running back who is so difficult to bring down. Valentine is the antithesis of this. In fact, Valentine looks like a high schooler, but his speed and running instincts are second to none. To help seal the game and put the game over a 3-point deficit, the true freshman broke through a hole and helped gain a massive first down.

It is quite impressive that the Illini were able to rely on a true freshman, especially given how talented the running back room is

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