Illinois Football: Week 3 Injury Report vs Central Michigan

During the open media availability on Monday, Bret Bielema provided an update on the current health status of Illinois Football. The Fighting Illini were able to walk away from a sold-out and rocking Memorial Stadium with a major upset win for this program.

Oct 1, 2022;  Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

IR Update From Bielema

“We got out pretty healthy,” said Bielema. “A couple of guys popped up on Sunday. I don’t foresee anything that’s going to change our math.”

“There’s one guy that is a little bit in question, but I do think (Carson) Goda will be back with us on Saturday,” Bielema stated.  “T-Strain, (Tyler Strain) who had been projected to play a lot of snaps for us, he was cleared, I think we felt good about it, but I just really didn’t want to go. He did get in on some special teams, but we’ll get him back there more and more.

 Quick Thought

By the sound of things, Illinois Football may have actually gotten healthier entering week 3.

Adding another passing threat like Carson Goda at the tight end position is key. Especially as the Illini continue to involve the unit in the passing attack, minus Cole Rusk. Certainly, Tanner Arkin and Henry Boyer will continue to take the majority of the reps. However, as the season progresses, the Division II transfer may be able to provide a different aspect to the unit. Of course, depth in case of injury is great as well.

The defensive backs unit is playing very well thus far, and has caused players like Terrance Brooks to battle for reps. Tyler Strain was a projected starter for many entering the season, however, has been sidelined to nurture an injury. He is now back, and Illinois depth in the secondary is looking very promising. This is going to cause an interesting battle for reps moving forward, which is a great problem for Illinois Football.

Video Credit: Illini Inquirer