Ryan Walters has been a great addition to the Illinois coaching staff ever since joining in 2021 after six seasons with Missouri. Walters showed fans part of the reason why he has had so much success.

Michigan was moving the ball late against Illinois before a costly pass interference penalty was called against Devon Witherspoon. When asked about how to use that as a teachable moment, Walters defended Witherspoon’s actions.

“Tell him to do the same sh**. Sorry tell him to do the same thing every time,” said Walters. If I’m him I wouldn’t have played that any different. He’s playing with proper technique, he’s being aggressive. You live with that.”

Michigan ended up getting into field goal position because of the penalty and ultimately won the game 19-17. While Illinois wasn’t able to get the win, it’s good to see Walters having his player’s back.

Illinois faces Northwestern Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on BTN.