Kansas football: 10 observations from the Jayhawks victory over Illinois

Sep 8, 2023; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; A general view of the Kansas Jayhawks helmets prior to a game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2023; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; A general view of the Kansas Jayhawks helmets prior to a game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
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Jul 12, 2023; Arlington, TX, USA; Kansas Jayhawks running back Devin Neal is interviewed during Big 12 football media day at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 12, 2023; Arlington, TX, USA; Kansas Jayhawks running back Devin Neal is interviewed during Big 12 football media day at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

1. KU’s run game might be the best in the conference

The Kansas football run game is on another level right now. They have totaled 507 yards on the ground and six touchdowns across the first two games. Top running backs Devin Neal (10-for-120, 1 TD) and Daniel Hishaw Jr. (12-for-98, 1 TD) led the way with some explosive runs on the ground.

Watching Neal cut to open lanes with his shiftiness was so fun to watch. His athleticism is off the charts. Meanwhile, you have Hishaw as a change of pace back who possesses a great deal of power and speed. Combine that with two quarterbacks who love to take off with their legs, and you have a dangerous run offense.