#Illini Bret Bielema on future scheduling:
"We moved off Missouri almost two months ago.... had subbed in Eastern Illinois because the world of college football is a little bit different back then."
Once CFP was expanding to 24 teams, and a 10th power conference game was required, Illinois choose Notre Dame over a couple other options.
The 2027 Eastern Illinois game was replaced by ND home and home series, said Bielema
And Bielema thinks the 24-team CFP will strengthen non-conference slates.
"I think this is a great example of what this 24-team playoff format can do.... They would have never agreed to it. I'm sure we probably wouldn't agree to it unless this happened."
Illinois' non-con in 2027 will be Notre Dame, Florida International and Delaware
Video is courtesy of Illini Athletics.