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Katin Houser Steps into QB1 Role for Illinois
After an excellent three-year stretch from Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer, the program brought in East Carolina transfer Katin Houser to run Barry Lunney Jr.'s offense in 2026. Houser joins the squad with one year of eligibility remaining after two years at Michigan State and two seasons with the Pirates. Last season, he set career highs in completion percentage (65.9%), passing yards (3,300), passing touchdowns (19), rushing yards (193), and rushing touchdowns (nine). Replacing Altmyer, who was responsible for 69 touchdowns over the last three seasons, won't be easy, and Houser will play a big part in determining how far the Illini can go this season. "Houser has a compact release that allows him to get the ball out quickly, and he consistently places throws where only his receiver can make a play," ESPN's Billy Tucker wrote. "He can extend plays with his legs, though he is more functional as a runner than a quarterback who takes over games with mobility." Houser draws easier matchups to start his career with games against UAB, Duke, and Southern Miss before a Week 4 outing at Ohio State.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
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