Earlier this week, Jake Hansen was named as a semifinalist for the 2019 Butkus Award. Unfortunately for the linebacker, his candidacy to become a finalist for the honor has gotten off to a rough start.
Illinois announced ahead of this afternoon’s game against Michigan State that Hansen will miss the contest because of an unspecified injury. The junior didn’t even travel with the rest of his teammates to East Lansing.
According to head coach Lovie Smith, he’s hopeful Hansen, who will have a bye next weekend to help the healing process, will be available for Illinois’ next game against Iowa in Week 13.
Hansen currently leads the nation with seven forced fumbles and ranks second in the country with three fumble recoveries. He’s also second on the Fighting Illini in tackles (72) and sacks (3½), while his 7½ tackles for loss are good for fourth.