Illinois football faces defensive challenges and injuries heading to Michigan State
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 1:11 AM
Last updated Oct 8, 2026
Illinois football prepares to face Michigan State on Saturday amid a challenging season marked by a 2-3 record. Head coach Bret Bielema highlighted the team's struggles, including the loss of running back Ca'lil Valentine to a season-ending injury. The defense is undergoing changes following the departure of Defensive Coordinator Bobby Hauck, with Roger Cooper taking on a more prominent role. Despite setbacks, Bielema expressed confidence in the potential for improvement moving forward.
- •Illinois holds a 2-3 record heading into the game.
- •Ca'lil Valentine is out for the season due to injury.
- •Bret Bielema remains committed to his coaching principles.
- •Roger Cooper has expanded his role in the defense after Hauck's departure.
- •Illinois aims to revitalize its rushing attack with Aiden Laughery.
- 1:11 AMYahoo Sports — Illinois looks to regroup amid injuries, defensive changes ahead of Michigan State
"A battered and bruised Illinois squad will head to East Lansing on Saturday, looking to turn its season around.
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