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Illinois offensive lineman Zy Crisler has headed to the transfer portal. Crisler seemed to be out of eligibility, but a recent NCAA waiver will allow him to play another season. That NCAA action arose after the recent Diego Pavia case. Crisler has thus been the beneficiary of another season of eligibility.
Crisler was a JUCO transfer to Illinois ahead of the 2022 season. His extra year of eligibility is based on that JUCO status. Crisler played in 30 games at Illinois and saw much of his action at right guard. He has experience and versatility and could draw interest from a wealth of FBS programs. Here are five likely suitors for Crisler.
Zy Crisler transfer portal: 5 likely portal landing spots
5. Florida State
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Crisler played for a deeply competent Illinois team in 2024. But other programs weren't as fortunate, and are probably more desperate for an experienced and reliable offensive lineman. Take Florida State, where the Seminoles posted a 2-10 season and allowed 49 sacks, second most in FBS football. FSU has been aggressive in the portal and even a one-year rental on Crisler could fit.
4. Purdue
Similarly, Purdue is absolutely desperate for help. New coach Barry Odom is a defensive guru, and he's building basically from scratch on offense. Purdue scored 15.8 points per game and could certainly use help up front. Again, Crisler would be trading off a likely bowl appearance for a more certain shot at immediate playing time at another FBS school. Purdue could be the pick.
3. Kentucky
Kentucky struggled through a 4-8 season and had a ton of problems on the offensive line. The Wildcats have been aggressive in the portal and coach Mark Stoops is feeling some heat with his job. Kentucky would likely appreciate versatility, as the Wildcats will be cobbling together a line of returnees and other portal additions. Kentucky may well get involved in the Crisler sweepstakes.
2. Mississippi State
Crisler hails from Mississippi and his home state Bulldogs could certainly use some help. Jeff Lebby's team struggled through a tough 2-10 season. State gave up 38 sacks last year and finished under four yards per carry. Given a number of current Bulldogs leaving, MSU's problems won't be solved quickly. But Crisler can be assured of a good shot at playing time in the SEC with his home-state school.
1. Southern Miss
Southern Miss was the other major suitor of Crisler when he emerged from junior college. Meanwhile, the Golden Eagles completed a 1-11 season and allowed 45 sacks, one of the nation's highest totals. USM also rushed for just 3.16 yards per carry. New coach Charles Huff can use help in any form, and Crisler could land at a familiar school in his home state.
What do you think of Crisler's transfer portal options? Share your take on his situation below in our comments section!
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