The Big Question: Who is Illinois Football's X-Factor Against Duke?

Patterson is one of the most experienced players in Illinois’ secondary, but his opener against Western Illinois left room for improvement. He was beaten a couple of times on crossing routes and came up short on a contested jump ball that was initially ruled a touchdown (and ultimately led to the Leathernecks' only score). Even as the Illini defense tightened up and cruised to a dominant win, those lapses were a reminder that even steady veterans occasionally leave the door open. Against a stronger opponent like Duke, such mistakes could prove costly.

But Patterson has shown throughout his career that he can be more than steady – he can be a difference-maker. He has the length (6-foot-1) and athleticism to battle top receivers, but what truly sets him apart is his versatility. Patterson is a physical tackler who doesn’t hesitate to step up in run support, giving Illinois confidence to leave him on an island. He has also demonstrated the ability to close quickly on the ball and disrupt throws, flashing lockdown potential and a knack for making momentum-shifting plays. When Patterson is locked in, he has the ability to shut down one side of the field and tilt the game in Illinois’ favor.

That ability will be tested against a Duke offense built for attacking through the air. Transfer quarterback Darian Mensah (Tulane) wasted no time making an impression in Week 1, shredding Elon for 389 yards and three touchdowns. Armed with both a big arm and pinpoint accuracy, the new Blue Devils passer showed he can push the ball vertically while also delivering strikes in stride to every area of the field.

Mensah's top targets – graduate Cooper Bartake (five catches for 117 yards) and sophomore Que’Sean Brown (six catches for 93 yards) – are proven big-play threats who will stress every level of the Illini defense. That means Patterson will almost certainly draw one of Duke’s top options on the outside. If he can disrupt timing at the line and force contested throws, Illinois can take Duke out of rhythm. If not, the Blue Devils have proven they can score quickly and in bunches.

Making the challenge even greater is the health of fellow defensive back Jaheim Clark, who, at best, figures to enter the game at less than 100 percent. Without the usual depth in the secondary, Illinois will lean heavily on Patterson to steady the group. The defense needs him to not only hold up in coverage but also to set the tone with physical tackling and composure.

Of course, the Illini front will do its best to harass Mensah and limit his time to throw. But even with pressure, there will be moments when the pocket holds. In those situations, all eyes will be on Patterson to deliver.