Illinois Football: What to expect in Bret Bielema’s debut season?

Offense

One positive for Illinois football fans and Bielema heading into the 2021 season is that at least the program won’t have to start over at quarterback with the return of Brandon Peters.

Unfortunately, when it comes to Peters, he completed just 48 percent of his passes. He did throw three touchdowns but his performance will need to mirror 2019 if the Illini are going to be competitive in 2021.

Isaiah Williams also got a chance last season but completed just 41 percent of his passes and has now been moved to receiver. He averaged 6.3 yards per attempt and has the potential to be a playmaker so that transition will be interesting. Regardless, he needs the ball in his hands and he’ll probably still see some time under center.

Chase Brown led Illinois in rushing yards (540) and he returns, along with four of the five starters on the offensive line, meaning this team will definitely be focused on ground and pound, which is Bielema’s style.

Daniel Barker is a 6-foot-4 tight end that was second on the team with 19 receptions a year ago is back and Notre Dame transfer Jafar Armstrong should also contribute right away.

Illinois actually has better skill guys than you would realize and if Peters struggles Artur Sitkowski, the former Rutgers starter, is a decent backup option.

Now to the defense.