Jeff George, Football • 1988-89

George enjoyed a 12-year NFL career after being the No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick in 1990 by the Indianapolis Colts. He was named Second-Team All-B1G in ’88 and First-Team in ’89, after leading the Fighting Illini to back-to-back bowl games. George earned Honorable Mention All-America honors in 1989. During his two seasons at Illinois, George threw for 5,189 yards and 31 touchdowns. He set the Illini single-season record with 22 touchdown passes I989, which still ranks tied for third. Under head coach John Mackovic, George led Illinois to two bowl games, including a victory in the 1989 Citrus Bowl, when Illinois finished 10-2 on the year. One of the best clutch quarterbacks in UI history, his ability to lead the Illini in the fourth quarters of games was amazing. George currently resides in Indianapolis.