Aug. 8—CHAMPAIGN — Jacob Eberhart was recruited by Illinois as a potential heir apparent to Matthew Bailey. The 2026 season is Bailey's last in Champaign. The veteran defensive back's role in the Illini defense — now the hybrid safety/linebacker "Chief" position under new coordinator Bobby Hauck — is a vital one. Eberhart taking over for Bailey in 2027 was seen as a real possibility. It still ...
