How a trio of small-town, central Illinois players became key forces in the Illini offense

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 ...

Original Source:

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/10/23/illinois-hank-beatty-kaden-feagin-aidan-laughery/