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Bret Bielema, Chase Brown emphasize importance of Josh McCray’s return on Illinois backfield
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Bret Bielema and Chase Brown know better than anyone how much the return of Josh McCary will mean to Illinois. McCray was seen at practice and could return for the Nebraska game per 247Sports’ Joey Wagner.
Bielema mentioned how McCray has looked at practice and has been impressed with him. He believes that there is a good chance that he will suit up against Nebraska.
“Josh McCray looked incredible (Wednesday),” Bielema said. “He had a really, really good practice. He practiced (Tuesday), he practiced (Wednesday) and hopefully he’ll practice (Thursday) and then I think we’re in the clear and he should be good to go. He looked really good (Wednesday).”
Brown will especially be glad once McCray reenters the Fighting Illini backfield. McCray has been out with a knee injury ever since the season opener against Wyoming. Brown now has 1,059 yards rushing with 4 touchdowns after the win over Minnesota.
“It would take some load off of me, No. 1, but then Josh is a tremendous player and he’s hungry to get back out there,” Brown said. “I know it’d mean a lot to him. I’ve seen how hard he’s working in rehab. The amount of time and attention to detail that he spent getting back, it’s going to be fun to see him go again.”
We’ll see if McCray gets the nod from Bielema against Nebraska after he has a bye week to get healthy.
Grant Bricker covers the B1G for Saturday Tradition. His previous stops include the Williamson Homepage and Nashville Post.