He was rated as a two-star recruit by Rivals.com and committed to play college football at the Ball State University.
[2][3] In Paddock's first four seasons with Ball State, he appeared in only four games as a backup quarterback, completing 24 of 32 passes for 180 yards and an interception.
[6] In week 3, Paddock completed 27 of 44 passing attempts for 227 yards and three touchdowns with one interception in his first win as a starter, shutting out Murray State.
[10] In week 9 of the 2023 season, he entered the game in the fourth quarter down by one score after starter Luke Altmyer went down with an injury.
Paddock completed all three of his passes for 85 yards including the game-winning touchdown as he helped Illinois beat Minnesota 27-26.