CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) - Jaheim Clarke's return was likely music to the ears of the Illini coaching staff after the team's defensive secondary was riddled with injuries in an ugly loss to Indiana.

Illinois is without Xavier Scott for an extended period of time, and multiple other defensive backs left the meeting with the Hoosiers' due to injury.

Jaheim Clarke didn't play at Indiana, nor did he play the three games prior to that, due to injury. The 6-foot-1 junior got back on the field for live action, for the first time in nearly 10 months, against USC.

Clarke's impact was felt quickly, he recovered a fumble on the first drive of the game as Illinois turned over the Trojans after Leon Lowery forced the ball out.

Defensive backs coach Corey Parker credits Clarke's preparation and focus

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