Happy 50th birthday to former Fighting Illini running back Keith Jones. Coach Mike White recruited Jones to Champaign-Urbana from Webster Groves High School in Rock Hill, Mo., where Jones was named Greater St. Louis’ Player of the Year. Jones was a three-way threat for Illinois — running the ball, catching passes out of the backfield and returning kicks.
As a senior in 1988 for coach John Mackovic, he led the team in scoring (10 touchdowns for 60 points), rushing (1,108 yards) and kickoff returns (17.7 yards per return). Jones also completed 2 of 3 halfback option passes, both for touchdowns.