Illinois’ offense is getting a boost. On Saturday, the Illini announced that they’ve found their next coordinator, replacing Tony Petersen who was fired after one season in Champaign.

Former UTSA offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. will be the next offensive coordinator for Illinois. He spent the last two seasons with the Roadrunners, producing terrific results during his short run with the program.

Lunney has worked on Bret Bielema’s staff in the past, spending 4 years at Arkansas as the tight ends coach.

UTSA owned the nation’s No. 11 scoring offense in 2021, averaging 36.9 points per game. The offense was led by star running back Sincere McCormick, who piled up 1,479 yards and 15 touchdowns during the year.

Quarterback Frank Harris also had a strong season, throwing for 3,161 yards and 27 touchdowns with just 6 picks. He also completed nearly 66% of his passes.

UTSA started the season by winning its first 11 games before suffering a loss to North Texas on the road. The Roadrunners then defeated Western Kentucky in the C-USA Championship Game.

Illinois’ offense sputtered at times throughout the season in Bielema’s first year. The Illini ended with the B1G’s last-placed passing attack, averaging just 156.2 yards per game through the air. The inability to throw the ball was costly all year long.

The addition of Lunney to the Illinois staff should be a huge boost heading into spring.