Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Injuries

Bret Bielema discusses roster changes and recent scrimmage performance

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 4:12 AM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Bret Bielema discusses roster changes and recent scrimmage performance

Summary

Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema addressed reporters Thursday in Champaign, Illinois, as the team enters the final week of fall training camp. Bielema announced the addition of tight end Peyton Smith from the University of San Diego, who is expected to provide depth after BJ Thurman was ruled out for the season. He also commented on exploring potential roster changes due to a recent court ruling regarding NCAA eligibility. During his assessment of the team, Bielema highlighted quarterback Katin Houser's progress and the offensive line's solid performance during a recent scrimmage. Defensive back Matthew Bailey is expected to return to full practice on August 24 following a limited role in the scrimmage.

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Status Watch

•Illinois added tight end Peyton Smith before practice on August 21.
•Bielema is considering potential roster changes due to new NCAA eligibility rules.
•Quarterback Katin Houser has emerged as a team leader.
•The offensive line showed improvement in the recent scrimmage.
•Matthew Bailey expected to return to full practice by August 24.

Latest Updates

4:12 AMYahoo Sports — Notes from Bret Bielema’s Thursday press conference

What they're saying

"
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema spoke with reporters on Thursday as his team nears the end of their third week of fall training camp. Bielema had plenty to discuss, as evidenced by a 5.5 minute opening statement which touched on a wide variety of topics. His comments ranged from new […]
— Yahoo Sports

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Yahoo SportsAug 21, 2026, 4:12 AM
Notes from Bret Bielema’s Thursday press conference
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema spoke with reporters on Thursday as his team nears the end of their third week of fall training camp. Bielema had plenty to discuss, as evidenced by a 5.5 minute opening statement which touched on a wide variety of topics. His comments ranged from new […]

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