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What Bret Bielema said in Thursday presser heading into matchup vs. Nebraska
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
The Bret Bielema era at Illinois kicks off on Aug. 28 when they host Nebraska (1 p.m. EST/FOX).
Bielema is replacing Lovie Smith after Illinois posted a 2-6 record in 2020. Bielema addressed the media on Aug. 26 in advance of the season opener and touched on a variety of topics, including injury updates, pregame traditions, and the new uniforms.
Here’s a sampling of what Bielema had to say:
#illini coach Bret Bielema reiterates that there shouldn’t be any surprises with injuries. Has said Slaughter and Beason are out but that anyone else would be news to him.
— Jeremy Werner (@JWerner247) August 26, 2021
#illini Bret Bielema said he does as much media as he does, like SportsCenter, for fans but mostly for recruiting.
— Jeremy Werner (@JWerner247) August 26, 2021
#illini Bret Bielema said they have filed a waiver request for Alec Bryant with the NCAA but he won’t be available this week.
— Jeremy Werner (@JWerner247) August 26, 2021
#illini Bret Bielema on helmet: “I love orange.”
Likes the Block I and thinks the white trim, stripe and facemask make it pop.
Not able to touch uniform due to Nike contract but added Block I on pants. White gloves, white socks and white shoes.
— Jeremy Werner (@JWerner247) August 26, 2021
Asked Bret Bielema about his approach to preparation. We ended up going down a road about him almost getting clipped down an Uber at midnight last night and him following the van (decked out in #illini gear) and waving. The driver did not know who he was.
— Joey Wagner (@mrwagner25) August 26, 2021
#illini Bret Bielema just squashed any injury rumors.
Nothing has changed since he told us that Marquez Beason and Jordyn Slaughter won’t be available.
— Joey Wagner (@mrwagner25) August 26, 2021
#Illini Bielema on pregame traditions: One of my favorite moments is to allow a player or coach give thanks. It’s usually a person that is pretty faith driven.
— Alec Busse (@alec_busse) August 26, 2021
Illinois is seeking its first winning season since 2011. Illinois is considered one of the most underrated teams in the B1G this season, according to CBS Sports.
“No, the Illini aren’t going to shock the Big Ten West, but they’ve got a chance to win seven if everything falls right,” CBS Sports analyst Dennis Dodd said.
Rolando Rosa brings his experience covering college football to Saturday Tradition. Follow him on Twitter @RolandoRosa3.