Bret Bielema updates status of multiple injured Illini
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema provided updates on some of his injured players on Tuesday afternoon and it included quarterback Brandon Peters.
Bielema confirmed that Peters will be limited in practice this week but should be full-go for next week’s game against Penn State. Defensive end Seth Coleman should also be good to go for that game.
It’s a bit murkier with the other 2 players though as linebacker Jake Hansen is still getting tested while wide receiver Deuce Spann may not play against the Nittany Lions.
#illini Bret Bielema: Seth Coleman should be good for Penn State. Brandon Peters will be limited this week but should be back next week. Jake Hansen still going through tests. Deuce Spann tweaked hamstring during practice and will be out this week and possibly next.
— Joey Wagner (@mrwagner25) October 12, 2021
If the Fighting Illini lose Hansen for any amount of time, it would be a big blow. He’s been a tackling machine on defense this season as he has 32 total tackles (18 solo) with a sack, fumble recovery, and 2 forced fumbles. He’s someone that Illinois can’t replace.
Coleman being healthy is crucial for Illinois as well. He has 21 total tackles (13 solo) with 2 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery this season. Having both him and Hansen on the field at the same time is tough for some teams to match up against.
Peters only has 410 yards passing this season with 1 touchdown but he’s still been the team’s best option at QB.
Illinois will play the Nittany Lions in State College on Oct. 23 at Noon ET.