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Chase Brown reacts to OC Barry Lunney Jr. landing contract extension with Illinois

Michael Costeines

By Michael Costeines

Published:

Chase Brown has had a great season for Illinois. The running back has rushed for 1,344 yards (5.2 ypg) and 5 touchdowns on 257 carries. Brown has eclipsed 100 yards rushing in all nine games this season.

Some of Brown’s success could be given to offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. It appears it is to be rewarded with Lunney receiving a contract extension by Illinois. The 1-year extension will now run through the 2025 season.

On Wednesday, Brown reacted to the news with a statement shared on social media. According to Brown, 2022 is “just the beginning” of where Lunney can get the Illini offense.

Lunney is currently earning $675,000 this year. His raise will pay him $800,000 in 2023 and $825,000 each of the following two years. Lunney’s success comes after joining Bret Bielema’s staff from UTSA where Lunney served under the same position.

Lunney’s improvement can be seen in the numbers. The Fighting Illini are averaging 83 yards more per game this season compared to last. That is the biggest improvement in the B1G conference by more than 20 yards.

Michael Costeines