Illinois football coach Bret Bielema has weighed in on fill-in quarterback Michael Clayton II's game thus far for the up-and-down Illini.

Here's everything you need to know before the Illinois Fighting Illini face the Maryland Terrapins on the road:

Check out college football predictions and picks in Stuckey's Week 9 spots for Ohio State vs. USC, Miami vs. UNC and more on Oct. 31.

Oct. 27—Illinois football's preparation for Saturday's game against Maryland is underway, with Illini coach Bret Bielema, offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. and defensive play-caller Roger Cooper available Monday for their regular weekly press conference. Beat writer Scott Richey highlights what each had to say: About that defensive coordinator opening ... Illinois coach Bret Bielema ...

Illinois' cool, calm and collected freshman won a big-time award after the Oregon game.

A massive win.

The Illini pulled off a stunning upset over the Ducks behind a true freshman quarterback, and social media erupted in the aftermath

The Buckeyes attempted to pry Illinois' top recruit in the Class of 2027 away from his commitment.

The Illini Fighting Illini's backup QB rose to the occasion against the Ducks.