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WATCH: Scott Van Pelt dedicates ‘1 Big Thing’ to injured Illinois receiver

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

Heartbreaking news was delivered out of Champaign, Illinois on Monday, when Illini head coach Lovie Smith announced that wide receiver Mike Dudek would miss the remainder of the 2018 season with a knee injury.

The news shocked everyone and there was an overwhelming outpouring of support on social media. Even one of the most popular faces at ESPN jumped at the chance to wish Dudek well.

Scott Van Pelt, arguably the most well-liked voice associated with the network, dedicated his “1 Big Thing” to Dudek on his SportsCenter Midnight show. And, as always, his message was sent extraordinarily well.

Dudek missed all of the 2015 and 2016 seasons with a knee injury after a breakthrough year as a freshman in 2014.

Last season, the receiver made a comeback, playing in the first seven games of the year for the Illini in 2017. But another injury sidelined Dudek for the final five games.

According to Smith, Dudek injured his knee in Illinois’ win over Kent State in Week 1.

There’s been an overwhelming amount of support for Dudek. And though he’s been frustrated with injuries throughout his career, his hard work and positive attitude haven’t gone unnoticed.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB