CHAMPAIGN — Jimmy Fitzgerald is always going to be “the local guy.”
The Illinois quarterback won’t argue the description. Or complain.
“I love playing here,” the former Centennial star said. “School is great. Growing up, watching the Fighting Illini, it’s a dream come true.”
Being the local guy means more interest in every move Fitzgerald makes. Those folks in the stands were his neighbors. Or classmates. Or teachers.
When the Illinois coaches fill out the depth chart, being the local guy isn’t going to help Fitzgerald. Best player is listed first, second best goes second and so on.