Meet Luke Altmyer - Illinois' Quarterback With A Promising Future

Early Life and High School Career

Luke Altmyer, born on December 28, 2001, in Highland, Illinois, began his football journey at Highland High School. As a highly-rated recruit, he led the Bulldogs to back-to-back state championships in 2017 and 2018. In 2019, he passed for 3,274 yards and 36 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

During his high school career, Altmyer showcased his exceptional passing ability, accuracy, and mobility. His impressive performances caught the attention of several major college football programs, eventually leading him to commit to the University of Illinois.

Freshman Season at Illinois

In 2021, Altmyer made an immediate impact as a true freshman for the Fighting Illini. He started 10 games and appeared in 12, completing 130 of 223 passes for 1,396 yards, 10 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

Despite the team's overall struggles, Altmyer's performances provided a glimpse of his potential. He earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors twice and led the Illini to their first bowl game in five years, the Redbox Bowl.

Progress and Improvement in 2022

During the 2022 season, Altmyer continued to develop and improve as a quarterback. He started all 12 games and ranked among the top passers in the Big Ten. He finished the season with 2,436 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and nine interceptions.

Altmyer's leadership and playmaking ability helped the Illini to a 5-7 record, showing signs of progress under new head coach Bret Bielema. His impressive performances garnered national attention and earned him a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Altmyer possesses several key strengths as a quarterback.

Strong Arm and Accuracy: He has a powerful arm and excellent accuracy, allowing him to make all the necessary throws on the field.

Mobility and Elusive: Altmyer is a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs and escape pressure. His elusiveness helps him avoid sacks and create opportunities.

Quick Release: He has a quick release, enabling him to get the ball out quickly and accurately, putting his receivers in advantageous positions.

While he has shown great potential, there are areas where Altmyer can continue to grow.

Decision-Making: Sometimes, Altmyer can make hasty decisions under pressure, leading to interceptions or poor throws. Improving his decision-making will be crucial for his development.

Consistency: Altmyer has shown flashes of brilliance but also moments of inconsistency. Maintaining a high level of play throughout an entire game and season will be key to his success.

Future Outlook and Expectations

Altmyer enters the 2023 season as the undisputed starting quarterback for Illinois. With a year of starting experience under his belt, the expectations for him and the Illini are high. Altmyer is widely considered one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten and a potential NFL prospect.

If Altmyer can continue to improve his decision-making and consistency, he has the potential to lead Illinois to its first Big Ten championship since 2001. His leadership and playmaking ability will be crucial to the team's success in 2023 and beyond.