Logan Hanson
FightingIllini.com

In the stadium that made special teams truly feel special, the Illini special teams left their mark on the Illini faithful in attendance at Soldier Field on Saturday afternoon. The biggest contribution in the game came from the right foot of senior kicker Chase McLaughlin. McLaughlin hit four field goals during the game: the first from 26 yards out, the second from 46 yards out, the third from 53 yards out and the fourth from 41 yards out. The 53-yard field goal gave McLaughlin his third straight game with a 50+ yard field goal, an Illini record.

"If you can't score a touchdown and you need to get points, it's good to know we have somebody that's been consistent throughout," said head coach Lovie Smith after the game, "Very pleased with what he's done when his team has called him to make plays."

McLaughlin was not alone in his success with his leg. Sophomore punter Blake Hayes set up the defense well, punting the ball seven times for a total of 322 yards including four punts over 50 yards which set a career high. Both players also contributed to the field position battle with McLaughlin going five for five on touchbacks on kickoffs and Hayes having four punts downed inside the 20-yard line.

The special teams' prowess did not only help the Illini to get on the board, but also contributed to the team keeping the Bulls off the board. USF Kicker Coby Weiss was not as fortunate with his field goal attempts missing two early, one from 44 yards out and another from 40 yards out. These missed field goals helped to set up one of McLaughlin's field goals.

For McLaughlin, his statistics on the field don't concern him as much as contributing well to his team. For him, his understanding is that he has to do his part to help his team win.

"It really doesn't matter the distance to me," said McLaughlin after the game, "Obviously the long ones are fun and all, but just helping the team put putting points on the board for them is what's important for me."

When asked about his transformation from last season to this season, McLaughlin contributed one trait: confidence.

"I think a big thing is just confidence," said McLaughlin, "Just going out there knowing that you're going to make the play and knowing you're going to help the team win."

If there has been any key takeaway from the Illini's third phase of the team, it would be that they are as advertised: special. The Illini special teams will have to keep up their game changing plays as they head into Big Ten play this Friday against nationally-ranked Penn State at Memorial Stadium.