What a week for Illinois athletics! ESPN just ranked Gabe Jacas as the No. 22 player in all of college football, solidifying him as the face of Bret Bielema’s defense. We break down what makes him special, his NFL upside, and why his loyalty to Illinois sets him apart.

Meanwhile on the basketball side, Illinois is officially in the final 8 for top 50 guard Jesiah Jervis out of New York. We scout his game, explain why he’s a true two-way star, and where the Illini stand in his recruitment battle. And don’t forget soccer — Illinois opened the season with two straight road shutouts, with standout performances from Kayla Jackson, Sydney Stevens, and Izzy Lee. We cover why this team deserves more attention. 

Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! 

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com 

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267 

NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/3fNX7V89 

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV 

Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE 

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social 

Article Referenced: https://writingillini.com/the-katie-hultin-era-at-illinois-begins-with-two-dominate-defensive-wins

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 

Wayfair 

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. 

Gametime 

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. 

Monarch Money 

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. 

FanDuel 

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)