The No. 9 Illinois Fighting Illini head into their Week 3 showdown with winless Western Michigan with optimism but caution. Especially from coach Bret Bielema , who knows trap games don’t come with warnings. But Bielema isn’t taking the Broncos lightly despite a hefty 27.5-point spread in his team’s favor. He knows Western Michigan will throw everything at them. In terms of injuries, Bielema gave a somewhat positive but realistic update. The Illini have dodged many major injury bullets, with most key players expected to be available.

A few players, like Jaheim Clarke, have an outside chance for Saturday but should be back the following week. On the downside, some promising younger players like JJ Hirdes and Grant Smith face season-long absences due to injuries. Bret Bielema also address

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