Lovie Smith knows his Illinois team will have to heavily rely on senior quarterback Wes Lunt.

But the first-year Illini coach said Sunday he wants his team to run the ball.

Smith said during preseason media day that he is confident sophomore Ke'Shawn Vaughn can carry the load. And Smith said he believes in backup Kendrick Foster despite the junior having only 15 career carries.

Smith also said he wants his tight ends to catch passes and to use a fullback in the pass and run games.

Illinois has not used a true fullback in several seasons. And Illini tight ends have often been talented, but played small roles in the offense.

Illinois opens Sept. 3 against Murray State and plays four of its first five games at home.