‘I knew we could lean on them’ - Bielema Believes Illini Offensive Line Showed ‘Big Ten physicality’ in Win over USC

Illinois head coach Bret Bielema had a message Monday for those who had doubts about his starting offensive line: “I think they answered the bell ten times over”.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

September 30, 2025

(Cover photo courtesy Illinois Athletics)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Throughout what has already been described as the longest and most physical Tuesday and Wednesday practices of the 2025 season last week, Bret Bielema had a three-word message for his offensive line group.

“The big statement all week was ‘lean on them’ and all week we just kept preaching ‘lean on them’ because when . . .

 

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