The Fighting Illini have collectively gained a tremendous amount of mass during the calendar year 2023.
They are now burdened with the weight of expectations.
Bret Bielema’s squad went 8-5 led by a smothering defense and an all-world running back. Their secondary placed four players on NFL rosters, including a top-5 pick in Devon Witherspoon.
Coupled with the belief that the Illini redemption arc is legit is the need to replace major contributors. The 2022 team outperformed predictions and defied analyst’s putrid prophecies.
So who from last year’s team is poised to step into a big role this season?