Luke Altmyer feeling loose and confident heading into year two

CHAMPAIGN (WCIA) — Quarterback Luke Altmyer’s confidence took a hit in his first season at Illinois.

“I got a little hesitant with my decision making. Being afraid to make mistakes sometimes,” said AItmyer.

Altmyer felt held back by the criticism that comes with being a starting college starting quarterback, and after working through that mental challenge, Altmyer wants to use that growth to lead the Illini in 2024.

“Ultimately, the best leadership is a servant. That comes from my faith, obviously, but a guy who will give the shirt off his back to his teammate and to let them know that. My thing is to go out there and love every single day. Connect individually with somebody every single day.”

And Altmyers’ confidence is seen by his offensive line.

“Luke’s got a lot of confidence, becoming a leader and they’re giving him a bigger role in certain stuff and just recognizing defenses, all that kind of stuff,” center Josh Kreutz said.

“Luke’s just taken a huge step and it’s just awesome to see. I love playing with him.”

Illinois replaces multiple starters on the offensive line from last season, adding All-Mountain West Left Tackle J.C. Davis from New Mexico, who’s enjoying the jump in competition on day three of fall camp.

“I’m going against some better competition, like we had good players in New Mexico, don’t get me wrong but like these guys are a little bit better,” Davis said.

“We’re getting each other better every day.”

That competitive spirit extends to the running back room.

“Iron sharpens iron as one man sharpens another,” running backs coach Thad Ward said.

“They feed off each other every single day and it’s pretty unique to be as competitive as they are, but also, to help each other out.”

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