Apr. 9—***
When it comes to improving the talent level of his Illinois football team, Bret Bielema’s strategy seems to be to beat them AND join them.
Fresh off the school’s first 10-win season in 23 years, Bielema and his staff are making major inroads in recruiting.
How do I know? Check the reviews.
In its initial Class of 2026 recruiting rankings released this week, ESPN lists Illinois No. 10 so far.
Illinois is given special praise for landing a commitment from defensive back Victor Singleton. He will be the program’s top-rated signee in the past six years.
The commitment from edge rusher Cam Thomas is also noted.
It is too early in the cycle to know where the Illinois class will finish in the rankings. But you would rather be in the Top 10 right now than not.
Naturally, there are other Big Ten teams ranked with Illinois at the top. So far, the Southern California class is ranked No. 1, followed by Ohio State at No. 2.
Oregon checks in at No. 6 and Penn State is No. 7.
Bielema’s team is ahead of No. 16 South Carolina and Big Ten rivals Rutgers (22) and Iowa (23).
Stay tuned.
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Greetings from “Can’t Wait For Saturday,” your morning morsel of college football, courtesy of longtime Illini beat writer, AP Top 25 voter and Heisman state rep Bob Asmussen. He’ll give you his views each day on the game he loves.
***
When it comes to improving the talent level of his Illinois football team, Bret Bielema’s strategy seems to be to beat them AND join them.
Fresh off the school’s first 10-win season in 23 years, Bielema and his staff are making major inroads in recruiting.
How do I know? Check the reviews.
In its initial Class of 2026 recruiting rankings released this week, ESPN lists Illinois No. 10 so far.
Illinois is given special praise for landing a commitment from defensive back Victor Singleton. He will be the program’s top-rated signee in the past six years.
The commitment from edge rusher Cam Thomas is also noted.
It is too early in the cycle to know where the Illinois class will finish in the rankings. But you would rather be in the Top 10 right now than not.
Naturally, there are other Big Ten teams ranked with Illinois at the top. So far, the Southern California class is ranked No. 1, followed by Ohio State at No. 2.
Oregon checks in at No. 6 and Penn State is No. 7.
Bielema’s team is ahead of No. 16 South Carolina and Big Ten rivals Rutgers (22) and Iowa (23).
Stay tuned.
