Illinois Football: Bret Bielema holds High Level of Respect for Penn State

How Illinois Football is Preparing for #9 Penn State

Bret Bielema is preparing his team for what possibly could be the toughest game of the season for Illinois Football. The Fighting Illini are 4-0, ranked 19th in the nation, and have a huge opportunity ahead of them.

However, the Illini coach knows taking on Penn State in Beaver Stadium is a challenge. Bielema spoke to the media on Monday, and dove further into his thoughts on the 9th-ranked Nittany Lions.

Sep 21, 2024; Credit: Matthew O’Haren – Imagn Images

Bielema’s Thoughts on the Nittany Lions

“Obviously, an environment that is one of the best in college football,” stated Bielema about the passionate Penn State faithful.

Bielema on the Penn State Offense

“An offense that has a new coordinator (Andy Kotelnicki). As Aaron (Henry) mentioned, a lot of familiarity with their offensive coordinator, coming from Kansas to where he is,” states Bielema, referring to the 34-23 blowout Kotelnicki’s offense hand-delivered to the Fighting Illini in Lawrence last season.

No doubt, it was a brutal loss that Illini fans certainly have not forgotten about.

Bielema continues, “Obviously James (Franklin), in his background, they use multiple quarterbacks. I think offensive line, tackle to tackle, it’s the best group we have played.  Some are a little new to the game and inexperienced, but very talented players.” says the Illini head coach. Once more, Bielema emphasizes “By far, tackle to tackle, the best group we have faced.”

Bret concluded, “They have a group of tight ends, wide receivers, and running backs that are above average to elite players in the Big Ten Conference.”

Bielema on the Penn State Defense

“Defensively,  I’ve loved coach Allen (Tom Allen) ever since I’ve been around him. What he brings to the table, and to bring over his experience. Obviously, we’ve gone against Indiana the last several years.” That would of course include a loss to Allen’s Hoosiers in 2022, which ultimately held Illinois Football from contention in the Big Ten Championship. “You see a little of that, but obviously some carry over from what they have done there,” Bielema says.

“They are extremely talented, especially on the edges defensively. On all three levels, upfront, on the linebacker core, and the secondary, they are very gifted,” states Bielema.

Credit: Fighting Illini Athletics 

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