Illinois WR Jayshon Platt likely misses season opener against UAB

Illinois wide receiver Jayshon Platt is expected to miss the season opener against UAB due to an injury. Head coach Bret Bielema stated the timeline for his return is uncertain, possibly spanning from week 1 to week 4. Platt, a transfer from Florida Atlantic, is a key part of the Illinois offense and was recently nominated for the Biletnikoff Award Watch List. With another transfer, Alex Perry, also sidelined, Illinois will rely heavily on Collin Dixon and Hudson Clement to step up in the receiving corps. The Illini may shift their strategy to emphasize the run game as they adapt to these injuries.

• 11:18 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois WR Jayshon Platt likely out for start of season