The Final Word: Moczulski & Rau win specialist jobs; Newton 'really impressive' with quick WR development
- Illinois starting slot receiver Jayshon Platt and projected starting MIKE linebacker Daniel Brown will miss the UAB opener with soft-tissue injuries, and Bret Bielema does not yet have a firm return timeline for either player.
- Mason Muragin will start at MIKE with Division II transfer Ean Rhea rotating behind him, while Brayden Trimble will replace Platt alongside Collin Dixon and Hudson Clement in the starting receiver group.
- Washington transfer Ethan Moczulski won Illinois' placekicking and kickoff jobs, while Lars Rau beat freshman Jack Gray for the punting role and adds rollout punts to the pocket-spiral style he used at Texas State.
- Converted quarterback Jershaun Newton has progressed rapidly at wide receiver since changing positions in June and is positioned for early nonconference snaps while Illinois works through injuries in the room.
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- KICKER: #Illini head coach Bret Bielema confirmed, in his final media session this week, his starting kicker and punter for the season opener vs.
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