Ked's Recruiting Roundup: Quad Cities Standout Ryan Paulsen Talks About Choosing Illini Over Hawkeyes & Cyclones

By Kedric Prince - IlliniGuys Sr. Recruiting Analyst

June 16, 2026

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – When the University of Illinois lands a football recruit from the state of Iowa, it draws attention throughout the recruiting world, particularly among Illini fans.

For decades, Iowa has been considered prime recruiting territory for both the Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones. However, Illinois has increasingly found success across the Mississippi River, securing commitments from some of the state’s top prospects.

Several months ago, Illinois women’s basketball coach Shauna Green landed five-star transfer recruit Divine Bourrage from Davenport North High School. On the football . . .

 

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