Mathew Bailey emphasizes leadership role for Illinois defense in new system

Mathew Bailey, senior defensive back for the Illinois Fighting Illini, discussed his leadership role as the team prepares for the upcoming season during Big Ten Media Days. With new defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck maintaining a 3-3-5 formation, Bailey aims to enhance the team's defensive performance after a disappointing past season. Ranked 12th in points allowed per game in the Big Ten, the Illini defense seeks improvement. Bailey, who chose to return rather than enter the NFL Draft, aims to raise his stock and help his team uphold their standard of going 1-0 each week.

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