The Illini have arrived in Orlando, Florida, and are preparing for battle against the South Carolina Gamecocks. With hopes of making it into the 2025 NFL draft, some athletes have opted out of the game to avoid injuries that could alter their draft stock. Below are key updates for Illinois and South Carolina’s rosters heading into Dec. 31.
Illinois opt-outs
The Illini will only miss one player for the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, but he’s a vital asset to the roster. Senior wide receiver Pat Bryant has elected to pull out of the upcoming bowl game after declaring for the NFL draft earlier this month. Bryant has been junior quarterback Luke Altmyer’s main man this season, so his electric presence will be missed in the team’s matchup against South Carolina.
Another reliable player, senior wide receiver Zakhari Franklin, will play in the game. Altmyer will likely make deep connections with him down the stretch and rely on his run game to get things moving.
Some players have entered their names into the transfer portal, like sophomore wide receiver Kenari Wilcher, but are still choosing to play in the bowl game. If the Illini can get yards even without their best receiver on the field, they’ll have a better chance of victory.
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South Carolina opt-outs
As for the Gamecocks, they’re losing two important players for this bowl matchup. Fifth-year edge rusher and SEC Defensive Player of the Year Kyle Kennard has elected not to play in the Citrus Bowl. Similarly, senior running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders will not gear up for this competition, according to South Carolina’s depth charts ahead of the game.
Though not the most refreshing sight for Gamecocks’ fans, it’s a relief for Illini fans that these two will not compete in the Citrus Bowl. Kennard dominated this past season with 11.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. Considering his strength, there’s no question why he wants to stay in shape and protect his health ahead of the draft.
As for Sanders, his nickname says it all. After transferring from Arkansas, he played in all 12 games for South Carolina and finished with 881 yards, 11 touchdowns and 73.4 average yards per game. Illinois consistently struggled with its run defense this season, so with Sanders out for this game, the team may have a better shot at slowing down South Carolina’s run game.
Junior defensive back Nick Emmanwori, who completed 54 tackles and four interceptions this year, also could have opted out of the bowl game. However, Emmanwori plans to compete in the game, so the Illini must keep their eyes out for his threats.
As both competitors lose integral players for this matchup, the winner will be determined by which team adapts to these missing pieces the best.
@tess_eken
