Quick hits 'They've acquired a level of talent'

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Sep. 25—Illinois coach Bret Bielema had his final pregame media availability of the week on Thursday. Here's some of what he said before his Illini team faces No. 7 Ohio State on Saturday in Columbus, courtesy beat writer Scott Richey:

Will Brown actually play against Buckeyes?

Illinois listed a half-dozen players as either doubtful, questionable or probable for Saturday's game against Ohio State in the first of four availability reports now due weekly in Big Ten play. Most notably, Daniel Brown wasn't listed. The fifth-year linebacker, who has been mostly unavailable since training camp started last month, received a seemingly positive update last week but didn't dress against Southern Illinois. He should against the Buckeyes.

"I do believe he's going to play," Illinois coach Bret Bielema said. "Part of the reason he was listed the way we did is because he's just getting back. He hasn't gone two consecutive days in a row, but everything looked to be pretty good out there (Thursday). Daniel's kind of playing, obviously in this system, a different position than he's played. He would be kind of a featured MIKE linebacker, who also has some outside linebacker and pass rush value."

Barnett taking advantage of his opportunity

The Illinois run game outside of long touchdown runs from Ca'Lil Valentine (51 yards against UAB) and Aidan Laughery (77 yards against SIU) has been effective, if not as explosive as desired. Freshman Javari Barnett showed some of that in the fourth quarter against the Salukis, rushing eight times for 50 yards and his first collegiate touchdown. All after not even being a part of the game plan the first two weeks of the season.

"I saw the growth that he had," Bielema said about giving Barnett an opportunity last week. "He's extremely talented, as you could see. He's a guy that could energize people. For me, (first-year running backs coach Tyrone Wheatley) has been an incredible asset that I've really enjoyed rolling with as a coach here through the first three games. His detail, especially in that running back room, is exceptional. I think you're seeing that come out of the running back room right now. Each of those guys has really grown, and Javari is just another example."

They're presenting a serious challenge

Jeremiah Smith was the No. 1 overall recruit in the Class of 2024 and has been a difference-maker on the field since day one for Ohio State. The 6-foot-4 junior leads the Buckeyes with 21 catches for 400 yards and three touchdowns. While the production from the rest of the Ohio State wide receiver corps pales in comparison, they have similar recruiting backgrounds. Brandon Inniss was a top 35 prospect in the Class of 2023, and true freshman Chris Henry Jr. was a five-star recruit and the No. 2 overall receiver nationally.

"Across the board, they've just acquired a talent level there," Bielema said. "If you've got one, you've got one. But if you've got two or you've got three, then it's really hard to defend that. That's probably what presents the uniqueness that they have. In addition to that, (quarterback Julian) Sayin has had just another year of growth. You can see the influence of the new offensive coordinator (Arthur Smith) in the way they run things with a pro-style offense."

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