Nick Hill returns to his play-calling roots as training camp opens

CARBONDALE, Ill. — On a hot and humid Wednesday morning at Saluki Stadium, SIU’s football program opened training camp, but Nick Hill and company have been working overtime on upgrading an offense that finished eighth in the league in scoring a year ago.

A host of injuries derailed the offense in 2024, but with do-everything quarterback DJ Williams healthy again, his teammates on offense predict big production is forthcoming.

“He makes the game easier for everybody,” said senior wide receiver Jay Jones. “He can use his legs, so the defense has got to be cautious of that. He can make my job easier as well. He can get out the pocket and we can make some off-schedule plays. He's just a playmaker. He's got a cannon. I'm excited.”

Ryan Schwendeman agrees. The junior tight end, who was on his way to a big season a year ago with seven catches in four games before his own injury, said Williams’ just makes the offense go.

“D.J. can do it all, man,” Schwendeman said. “He's got a great arm. He's also one of those guys who if a play breaks down, he could just go get 20 yards. I have a feeling he's going to have an absolutely wonderful year.”

Players are even more optimistic by the combination of Williams paired up with Hill, who returns to offensive coordinator and play-calling duties.

“I think it's great for our offense,” said running back Jimmy Athans. “Just getting in-depth with every play and just the little details. I think that's going to make our offense a lot better.”

Transfer wide receiver Jackson Parker, who had 94 catches for 1,224 in his career at FCS Albany, is excited by what he’s seen through spring ball and into fall camp.

“We come in day-in and day-out and put in real work,” he said. “We've got a very tight-knit offense. We mesh very well. Ever since I’ve been here, I’ve been impressed by just how hard they work and how serious they take it. There’s a lot of dedication, a lot of culture, a lot of history at SIU."