Close-knit Illini tight end room translating into success

(WCIA) — Illinois is 4-1 heading into the rivalry game against Purdue, back in action after a bye week.

The loss at Penn State was softened by a four-yard touchdown by transfer tight end Carson Goda, his first in orange and blue.

Goda and sophomore Henry Boyer have stepped up following Cole Rusk’s season-ending injury. With the leadership of Tanner Arkin and coach Robby Discher, the tight end room has developed a strong sense of brotherhood.

“They all want to play, and they all want to be out on the field contributing,” said Discher, who is currently in his second season as tight ends and special teams coach. “All of those guys generally root for each other. Nobody was more excited when Carson caught that touchdown than Henry Boyer.”

Goda joined the Illini over the summer after three seasons at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, where he ranked second in the Northeast-10 for receptions, receiving yards and receiving yards per game during his junior season.

“This is such a tight-knit group, such a family,” said Goda. “I got here, and I think it was like the end of June, and I already feel like I have a family for life. So I mean, it’s really just awesome. So yeah, to share that excitement with everyone else, it was really cool.”

Illinois returns home to face Purdue on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

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