Jihad Ward: Prospect Breakdown (with GIFs)

Dec 26, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Jihad Ward (17) rushes the passer in the game against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in the Heart of Dallas Bowl at Cotton Bowl Stadium. Louisiana Tech beat Illinois 35-18. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Jihad Ward (17) rushes the passer in the game against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in the Heart of Dallas Bowl at Cotton Bowl Stadium. Louisiana Tech beat Illinois 35-18. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
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Jihad Ward Film: Part 2

Sep 5, 2015; Champaign, IL, USA; Kent State Golden Flashes quarterback Colin Reardon (10) is sacked by Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Jihad Ward (17) and linebacker T.J. Neal (52) at Memorial Stadium. Illinois beat Kent State 52-3. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2015; Champaign, IL, USA; Kent State Golden Flashes quarterback Colin Reardon (10) is sacked by Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Jihad Ward (17) and linebacker T.J. Neal (52) at Memorial Stadium. Illinois beat Kent State 52-3. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports

Impressive display of balance to easily withstand the cut block, and then Ward picks up the tackle on the running back.

Ward was double teamed quite a bit in the Ohio State game — perhaps a sign they respect his ability. He was quite ineffective when double teamed, however, so you would like to see him perform at least a little better in those situations.

Really nice play here — Ward disengages quickly and cleanly, throwing his blocker off of him, and then gets the tackle.

Something that seems to be an issue is holding up at the point of attack. Too often, he is driven several yards from where he lined up.

Blocker attempts a cut block here, but Ward displays impressive balance to stay on his feet, and then tracks the ball carrier down the sideline and helps clean up on the tackle.

Next: Jihad Ward Film: Part 3

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