Illinois’ defense takes a hit as Houston Bates announces transfer.

Illinois’ beleaguered defense has just taken another big hit with linebacker Houston Bates’ announcement of his desire to transfer. Bates is from Louisiana, and has expressed an interest in moving closer to home as his collegiate career comes to an end.

Bates was one of the few playmakers on the Illini defense last season, starting every game and making 40 tackles, 12 for loss, with 3.5 sacks and 5 hurries. He also broke up 2 passes and recovered 2 fumbles. Prior to that he was a primary reserve in 2011 and 2012, and has totaled 81 career tackles with 14.5 for loss, and 4.5 sacks.

With Jonathan Brown graduating and likely heading to the NFL, Illinois are looking dangerously thin at a position was one of the better units on the team last season. While there is some talent waiting in the wings, there will be a struggle to replace his experience on a team that had concerns, even with Bates and Brown on the field.

Bates hasn’t announced where he will end up, but as he has already graduated, he won’t need to sit out a year. He will be entering his senior year in 2014.