
Efficient, steady Illinois QB with a proven arm
In his Illinois career, Dustin Ward completed 165 passes for 1,946 yards and 13 touchdowns, showing a steady, workable passing profile rather than flashy volume[1][2]. In the 2002 season, he delivered a 16-of-23, 197-yard, 2-TD outing against Indiana and also helped Illinois in a high-leverage win over Purdue, which hints at poise in game-flow situations[9][15]. At 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds as a recruit, he brought a classic pro-style frame and enough touch to stack efficient throws when rhythm is there[5].