Training Camp Central
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The Fighting Illini continued fall Training Camp with practice No. 6 Tuesday morning on the grass practice fields just east of Memorial Stadium.
Peanut Tillman Observes Practice
The Fighting Illini had a special guest on Tuesday as NFL great Charles "Peanut" Tillman observed practice. Tillman played 13 NFL seasons, including nine under Coach Lovie Smith with the Chicago Bears. Recently retired as a player, Tillman was the 2013 NFL Man of the Year and was a two-time Pro-Bowler.
"He's a man of integrity," Tillman said of Coach Smith. "You're going to see a well-disciplined Fighting Illini team. They're going to have a great defense. A ton of turnovers, a bunch of takeaways. I'm excited to see him teach these kids how to become men. It's not just about football. I've had the privilege and honor to be mentored by him. Coach Smith is a great man for the job."
After Tuesday's practice, Coach Smith revealed that the team would not have a practice on Wednesday. The Illini were originally scheduled to practice from 2:30-4:30 on Aug. 10. They'll still meetings and walkthroughs, but will not have a full practice for the public to attend. The Orange and Blue will return to the practice fields on Thursday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. All Training Camp practices are open to the public and free to attend.
