COLUMN: Something….Anything Has to Immediately Change With Illinois’ Defense

Whether that change is a what or a whom, something has to be different about what Illinois is doing on the defensive side of the football. And Bret Bielema knows it.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

(Cover photo courtesy Matt Stevens/IlliniGuys)

October 25, 2025

SEATTLE — Illinois has finally reached its first rubicon game in the last two seasons where its faulty defense absolutely cost them a game.

Before, during or after the four-hour flight home to Champaign, Bret Bielema will have to look at his beloved son he never had, Aaron Henry, and be forced to . . .

 

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