Illinois coach Bret Bielema has been pushing the hashtag hard on social media.

A comment from a national reporter hyping up Hank Beatty? #CIP. A photo of Aidan Laughery after a 101-yard rushing performance? #CIP.

“#CIP has always been here but now they are staying here,” Bielema posted earlier this season . “Look out for our Central Illinois Players that are ready to make some noise in the #B1G (Big Ten).”

While Mississippi-bred quarterback Luke Altmyer is the face of the Illini offense this season, three players from small central Illinois towns are his key supporting cast.

Wide receiver Hank Beatty, Rochester, Ill., 82 miles from Champaign, population 4,044 in 2024.

Running back Kaden Feagin, Atwood, Ill., 34 miles from Champaign, population 1,097.

And running back Aidan Laughe

See Full Page