WATCH: Illinois OC Rod Smith explains selection of Brandon Peters as starting QB
It looks like the decision was an easy one for Illinois offensive coordinator Rod Smith.
Earlier in the week, head coach Lovie Smith and the Illini announced that transfer quarterback Brandon Peters would be the starter in Week 1. Peters had been competing with highly-touted freshman Isaiah Williams, but Peters will at least get the nod for the season opener against Akron.
When asked why Illinois is rolling with Peters, Smith didn’t hesitate. He had a laundry list of the positive reasons why Peters established himself as QB1 in camp:
“He’s had a very solid camp,” explained Smith. “He’s been the most consistent. He’s made the least amount of mistakes over all the reads and throws he did – runs and passes. He’s been the most accurate. He’s accounted for the most touchdowns. What else you want?”
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You can see all of Smith’s comments courtesy of Isaac Trotter with The Illini Inquirer:
#Illini offensive coordinator Rod Smith on why Michigan transfer Brandon Peters was named the starting QB.
“He’s been the most accurate. He’s accounted for the most touchdowns. He’s kinda separated himself, and he’s our guy.” pic.twitter.com/WSbhr2FFLz
— Isaac Trotter (@Isaac__Trotter) August 21, 2019
Williams has made some splashy plays throughout camp, but it sounds like there’s little doubt who has consistently earned the starting gig. Hopefully, Peters can lead Illinois to some strong wins this season.