Tillman attends Illini practice with Lovie Smith

Lovie Smith and Charles Tillman share fond memories together in the state of Illinois.

Tillman, a former Chicago Bears cornerback, was a staple of Lovie Smith’s defense during his NFL stint. Tillman and Smith spent nine years together in the Windy City, reaching the Super Bowl in 2007.

Tillman visited his ex-coach at Illinois practice on Tuesday:

Peanut sighting at today's practice. #Illini #WeWillWin pic.twitter.com/hNvrXClxAW

— Illini Football (@IlliniFootball) August 9, 2016

Legends. #Illini #WeWillWin pic.twitter.com/G70ZWuFFBz

— Illini Football (@IlliniFootball) August 9, 2016

Master of the "ball punch," Tillman forced 44 fumbles in the NFL and is the Bears’ all-time leader in interceptions. Perhaps he can inspire the Illinois defense to force a few more turnovers in 2016.

UPDATE:

A few days later, the Illini are practicing what Peanut preached.

Watch below as Illinois defenders try their hand at the move that made Tillman an NFL great:

@peanuttillman #Illini #WeWillWin pic.twitter.com/xhCSnBRgIf

— Illini Football (@IlliniFootball) August 11, 2016

Opposing running backs and receivers: beware.