Illinois Football: Bielema’s Points of Emphasis During The Bye Week

Illinois Football coach Bret Bielema addressed local media (10/7), discussing an array of topics, including some points of emphasis for improvement coming off of a bye week.

Thus far, Bielema’s crew has had a hot start to the season. Despite facing their first loss in week 5 to Penn State, the Fighting Illini are 4-1. After a refreshing BYE week, they are now looking to extend their momentum against a mightily struggling Purdue team. As always, however, there is room for the Illini to improve their game prior to diving into the core of their schedule.

Here are some areas Bielema felt Illinois football needed to focus on before facing the Boilermakers, coming off a bye week.

Jul 23, 2024;  Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

Run the Ball, Stop the Run

“Offensively, one of the things that has been, not a challenge, but one of the things we’ve struggled with through the first five games, is being consistent in the throw game and the run game,” says Bielema. ” That was the main task that I wanted Barry (Lunney Jr.) to go back and look with Bart (Miller), Thad (Ward), (Justin) Stepp, and Disch (Robby Discher), and just kind of figure out how we can put this thing all together, and be consistent in our approach,” states the Illini coach.

Bielema continued, “From a run defense, I knew Penn State had those two good running backs (Kaytron Allen & Nick Singleton). They had the skill set of their offensive coordinator. Talked about that we needed to play good run defense, and obviously, we did at times. But, not near good enough to be successful.” Furthermore, Bielema says, “I think a key thing for them (Penn State) was them running for 240, and we’re running for the numbers that we did…” Bret concluded, “Obviously a discrepancy in being able to run the football is a big part of that game.”

Furthermore, the Illini head coach addressed the offensive line, “I think it’s fair to say we feel solidified in certain positions. But, you know, where you have seen rotation, there are opportunities to be in there.” states Bielema. “I love the fact that our guys are their own hardest critics. I think that they not only ask to be better but expect each other to be better. So, there is a lot of peer pressure, and I think peer pressure works both ways.” 

Credit: Illini Inquirer