Overview

• Illinois head coach Bret Bielema said after the USC victory that Malik Elzy has left the program and intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal.
• Bielema characterized the move as Elzy wanting to redshirt, adding that the Illini would not retain a player who opts out of the current roster plan.
• Agent Aaron Garland said Elzy will redshirt to develop and preserve eligibility, calling him grateful to Illinois and respectful of the program.
• Elzy logged 16 catches for 213 yards and two touchdowns across 23 games in his Illini career, including seven receptions for 84 yards this season.
• The former four-star from Chicago’s Simeon High was inactive for the USC game, and the timing drew negative fan reaction following the win.