Illinois coach Bret Bielema is hoping for a happier ending this fall. His team blew a shot with two-point losses in the final two games of last season en route to a 5-7 finish. The Illini welcome several key transfers and have quarterback Luke Altmyer heading into his second season as the expected starter. The opener is Aug.
FILE - Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant runs during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana, Friday, Sept. 2, 2022, in Bloomington, Ind. FILE - Illinois quarterback John Paddock , right, hands off the ball to running back Reggie Love III, left, during the NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Nov. 25, 2023, in Champaign, Ill. FILE - Illinois head coach Bret Bielema , left, talks to referees during the NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Nov.
The Illini are experienced: 17 players, including nine transfers, have at least 10 collegiate starts. Two defensive lineman, Ezekiel Holmes and Florida State transfer Dennis Briggs Jr., are in theirQuarterback Luke Altmyer begins his second season as the expected starter. The transfer from Ole Miss threw for 1,833 yards and had 13 touchdown passes last season, but he also was picked off 10 times and lost his starting job to John Paddock at the end of the season.
Illinois Fighting Illini Illinois IL State Wire Illinois Fighting Illini Football Sports Dennis Briggs Kaden Feagin JC Davis Bret Bielema Zakhari Franklin Terrance Brooks Oregon Josh Mccray John Paddock Luke Altmyer Ezekiel Holmes Michigan
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