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Sport: College SportsCategory: Playoffs

Bret Bielema comments on Illinois' growth and potential in SEC

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 7, 2026, 4:24 PM

Last updated Nov 7, 2026

Bret Bielema comments on Illinois' growth and potential in SEC
Summary

Bret Bielema's Illinois football team improved to 6-3 after a 24-13 victory over Nebraska, marking their fourth consecutive win. After a challenging start to the season, the Illini made a defensive coordinator change and have since allowed an average of 13.3 points in their last three games. Bielema humorously suggested that if Illinois were in the SEC, they would likely rank among the top 15 teams. With aspirations for a playoff berth, Bielema remarked that a strong finish could help Illinois gain serious consideration for postseason play as they face Oregon and UCLA next.

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CBS Sports
Key Details
  • •Illinois is currently on a four-game winning streak.
  • •They have allowed an average of 13.3 points in their last three contests.
  • •The Illini stand at 6-3 and are bowl-eligible.
  • •Bielema commented on Illinois' potential ranking in the SEC.
  • •Next games include matchups against Oregon and UCLA.
Latest Updates
  • 4:24 PMCBS Sports — Bret Bielema jokes Illinois would 'probably be a top-15 team' if Illini were in the SEC after getting to 6-3
What they're saying
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Bielema's Illini have won four straight and he couldn't help jabbing at the CFP's love for the SEC

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