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In his fourth trip to Indianapolis for Big Ten Football Media Days since being named head coach of the Illinois football program in December 2020, Bret Bielema fielded questions from reporters in a nationally televised press conference before taking part in various media opportunities throughout the day.

Bielema was joined by Fighting Illini student-athletes Pat Bryant, Seth Coleman, and Gabe Jacas, who all made their Media Days debuts in 2024.

Addressing topics ranging from the conference's expansion, the excitement and momentum surrounding the program ahead of the 2024 season, and the evolving nature of college football, Bielema expressed optimism about his team going into the Orange and Blue's season-opening kickoff on Aug. 29.

"There isn't a more exciting time for me in my life than to be the head coach at the University of Illinois in 2024," Bielema said. "I just can't express how awesome it is to have this job, to be in this opportunity and to make it be very, very special every day when I walk in that building."

Here are a few key takeaways from the Illini's time in Indianapolis for 2024 Big Ten Football Media Days:

**Bielema looks forward to first year of expanded Big Ten Conference schedule**

Illinois' 2024 conference slate will feature games from coast to coast. The Orange and Blue will travel to Oregon in October, marking the Ducks' first year in the Big Ten, before heading to Rutgers in November. With divisions eliminated and Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington added to the conference lineup, Illinois is set for a historic season.

"Really excited for our conference," Bielema said. "I know a lot of people have different views on expansion, but for me as a head coach... we play a game on the East Coast against Rutgers and Penn State... then we play a game on the West Coast against Oregon... It's very special not only for our players but also for our fans."

Starting with three non-conference home games—Eastern Illinois, Kansas, and Central Michigan—before beginning Big Ten play on the road, Illinois faces an unprecedented schedule during its 2024 campaign.

"We start fall camp on Sunday," Bielema said. "I'm excited to get to work with these guys and see where we can go."

**Mix of transfers, incoming freshmen highlight roster changes**

With four draft picks and several other players now signed with NFL teams from their 2023 squad, Illinois saw significant talent depart but worked hard to rebuild its roster heading into 2024.

The Illini brought in three four-star transfers: DB Terrance Brooks (Texas), OL J.C. Davis (New Mexico), and WR Zakhari Franklin (UTSA/Ole Miss). The roster features depth with 17 student-athletes boasting double-digit starts heading into this season; nine arrived via transfer portal recently.

"Even though they may have not started for us... they've started at other places," Bielema said. "We have 17 players that are either starters or considered starters."

Returning contributors include all three attendees at Media Days along with several new faces potentially slotting into starting roles. Bielema emphasized leaning on veterans as they build strong relationships within the team.

"This is my fourth year as head coach... These guys chose Illinois because of Illinois," he said.

**Growing momentum reflected in ticket sales**

With six weeks until kickoff on Aug. 29th public season ticket sales already surpassed last year's total number sold; student interest mirrors this trend showing highest numbers over past decade both seasons combined Memorial Stadium hosts several promotions honoring its centennial including Rededication Game vs Michigan Oct19th

"We have six rematch games six new ones five-game stretch bye week four-game stretch another bye week then final three games," explained Bielema."A little bit everything what college football right now think guys excited"

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