All articles tagged with #bret bielema
Illinois coach Bret Bielema expressed interest in organizing joint spring practices with Bill Belichick and North Carolina, inspired by NFL minicamps, but NCAA restrictions prevented it from happening this time. Future collaborations remain possible if NCAA rules change.
Georgia's recent addition of running back Joshua McCray from Illinois has raised questions from Illinois coach Bret Bielema about how quickly McCray transferred to Georgia, highlighting the rapid transfer process and Georgia's strategic recruitment efforts. McCray, a key player from Illinois, joins Georgia's growing transfer class to bolster their running back room, with Bielema expressing surprise at the swift move.
The University of Illinois football team has accepted an invitation to play in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against South Carolina on December 31 in Orlando, Florida. This marks Illinois' 21st bowl game appearance and their second New Year's bowl in Florida in three seasons. The Illini, ranked #20, aim to secure their 10th win of the season, tying the program record. Head coach Bret Bielema, who has led 12 teams to bowl games in his career, expressed excitement for the matchup and the opportunity for the team and fans.
Penn State prepares to face Illinois as two-touchdown favorites in their eighth straight road Big Ten opener. The Blue-White Breakdown podcast discusses the matchup, highlights freshman Jameial Lyons, and questions the validity of James Franklin's plans for quarterback Beau Pribula.
Four-star running back Ca’Lil Valentine has committed to the University of Illinois, choosing them over Utah as his college destination. Valentine, who hails from Chandler, Arizona, is ranked as the 30th-best halfback in the 2024 class and had received offers from several Power Five programs. This is a significant acquisition for Illinois and head coach Bret Bielema, as Valentine brings impressive stats from his junior year, including over 1,300 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns.
Four-star wide receiver Luke Williams will be deciding between Illinois and Purdue on Monday night, with Illinois head coach Bret Bielema going up against former defensive coordinator Ryan Walters and his coaching staff. Williams is a top 429 recruit in the class of 2024 and the No. 10 player coming out of Illinois. Landing Williams would be a big win for the Illini offense and boost their class of 2024.