The team's statistical leaders included quarterbackJason Verduzco (1,531 passing yards, 63.7% completion percentage), running back Darren Boyer (554 rushing yards), wide receiver John Wright (40 receptions for 426 yards), and kicker Chris Richardson (58 points, 20 of 23 extra points, 11 of 16 field goals).[2]
Several Illinois players received all-conference honors. Defensive linemanSimeon Rice was selected by theAssociated Press (AP) as theBig Ten Freshman of the Year. Offensive tackle Brad Hopkins was selected by the AP as a first-team all-conference player, and linebackerDana Howard and quarterback Verduzco were selected as a second-team player.[3]