By Mallory Mattingly
Illinois football currently sits at No. 17 as quarterback Luke Altmeyer has led his team to an impressive start to the 2025 season.
Thus far, Altmeyer “has completed 109 of 148 passes for 1,573 yards (sixth in the nation), with 12 touchdowns and no interceptions — a stellar 73.6% completion rate and a passer rating of 189.7 (also sixth in the nation). He’s added two rushing touchdowns and a receiving score as well,” per Sports Spectrum.
When he talked about why he’s playing so well, the athlete didn’t take the credit. Instead, he pointed to the trust he has in his teammates.
For more inspiring sports stories, check out Sports Spectrum.
“I’m playing well and doing good things because I trust the people around me,” he told the media after Illinois beat Purdue 43-27. “I’m very comfortable in what we’re doing and the people I’m doing it with. I don’t have a doubt when I go out on that field and I’m very thankful for that. The work we put in — the work ethic — eliminates fear and we’ve certainly put in our part. So we’re just out there playing free. I go out there so excited just to play the game I love.”
Related: 49ers QB Brock Purdy Focuses on Jesus as He Leads Team to Victory
In his post-game press conference after Illinois beat USC 34-32 on Sept. 27, Altmeyer spoke more about his team, explaining, “Just a lot of connection and maturity. It’s an older group. We’ve been there, done that. We’ve had our fair share of adversities and successes. We just know how to do the right thing. That’s the bottom line.”
He then praised God for the opportunity to go through the trials.
“I thank Jesus for being so faithful for allowing us to go through those things to grow our faith. That’s where the true success is. Our character and our faiths and our love for each other is just so deep. We’re a confident group,” the quarterback said.
“I thank Jesus for being so faithful for allowing us to go through those things to grow our faith. That’s where the true success is.”
Illinois QB @lukealtmyer9 pointing to the Lord after a big win over USCpic.twitter.com/iPLYh3acx2
— Sports Spectrum (@Sports_Spectrum) September 27, 2025
A few weeks ago, Altmeyer told the media about how his faith impacts his game.
“I just praise God for gifting me all the abilities I’ve got,” he said. “I’m just there to thank Him in the ordinary things and the way I lead, the way I encourage, the way I communicate and the way I play. I play hard for Him.”
Altmeyer and his team will face off against last season’s National Champions, Ohio State, on Saturday at 12 p.m.
Read Next: Auburn QB Remembers God-Given Purpose: ‘Share Gospel’ Through Football
Questions or comments? Please write to us here.
– Content: +3Share:
– Content: +4