Chambana Sun

Miles Scott's journey to becoming a key contributor and captain for the Illinois Fighting Illini football program is a testament to perseverance and seizing opportunities. Despite being underrecruited, Scott walked on at his home-state school and embraced every challenge.

"I have always had the odds stacked against me my whole life," Scott said. "I knew that I was good enough to play with these guys. That's always my mindset."

Scott's passion for football began early, idolizing his older brothers and joining local youth programs. His father, Gerald Scott, recalled how Miles would mimic his brothers' exercises even before he was old enough to play.

"If they were doing pushups, he was doing pushups," Gerald said. "He always loved the sport."

Despite also excelling in baseball, Miles chose football in middle school, aspiring to play at higher levels.

"When I was 12, that's when I had it in my mind that my dream was to play in the NFL," Miles said. "Everything I did was different from that age on."

Gerald supported his son's decision despite initially believing he was better suited for baseball.

"I've always had this thing with my kids: Whatever you choose, you have to finish it for the year," Gerald said.

Miles played as a starting wide receiver in high school but sought opportunities on the East Coast during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move allowed him to continue playing and gather film for college coaches. Financial support from St. Thomas More School enabled him to make this transition.

Earning offers from multiple FCS programs, Miles chose a preferred walk-on opportunity at Illinois over FBS Power-5 schools. He debuted in Illinois' historic nine-overtime victory against Penn State in 2021 but redshirted that season.

Increased playing time came in 2022, yet mental struggles led him to consider quitting until an unexpected position change revitalized his passion for the game.

"Out of nowhere, Coach B said, 'How would you think about playing safety?'" Miles recounted. "I found my love for the game again once I started playing defense."

Miles made an immediate impact on defense in 2023 by returning an interception 48 yards for a touchdown against Toledo.

"It was surreal," Miles said of scoring his first collegiate touchdown on defense rather than offense.

Gerald watched proudly from Memorial Stadium stands, expecting big plays from his son due to his dedication and humility.

"Everybody is extremely proud of him," Gerald said. "His humility is his greatest strength."

Starting all 12 games at safety last season, Miles recorded two interceptions returned for touchdowns and ranked second on the team in tackles. Now entering his fourth year at Illinois as one of six team captains voted by teammates, he feels prepared and confident.

"With anything that you do...you know a lot more," Miles reflected. "I'm just ready to see how this year is going to go."