Guests of honor: Bryant, Coleman, Jacas

Starting Tuesday at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Big Ten holds its annual media kickoff. With four new teams, it is being spread over three days, with six schools each session. Illinois coach Bret Bielema will be joined by wide receiver Pat Bryant and outside linebackers Seth Coleman and Gabe Jacas. Longtime News-Gazette football beat writer Bob Asmussen talked with the players recently for a sneak peak:

Pat Bryant

Senior, Jacksonville, Fla.

How did you react when you were told you were going to Indy?

“I was pretty excited. Coach B. called me into his office. He said, ‘I have some good news,’ but I really wasn’t expecting that one. It put a big smile on my face.”

Of the four new Big Ten schools, which one are you most looking forward to playing?

“Oregon, just going out and experiencing that part of the world. I’ve never been that far. Growing up, that’s a team I always looked at because of the uniforms. They have great players.”

How odd it is that Isaiah Williams is gone?

“We miss him a lot. I try to be the same leader he was, keeping the standard as high as possible.”

Illinois has never had a Biletnikoff Award winner. What would it mean for you to be considered for it?

“Every year I’ve played college football that’s always been one of my goals, to strive to get a nomination for the Biletnikoff or even win it. I’m pretty aware of it.”

One-hundred years ago, Red Grange had a legendary performance against Michigan. What would you ask Grange if he came back today?

“Teach me how you made all those guys miss. How did you run the ball like that? How did you become so good at the game? The film we see, we see who he is.”

What does the term ‘go-to receiver’ mean to you?

“That I’m dependable. That’s what I work toward. I’m ready to ball and whatever comes with it.”

Seth Coleman

Senior, Melbourne, Fla.

What have former teammates told you about Big Ten media days?

“Owen Carney, I talk to him every week. He’s like a big brother to me. He loved the opportunity. It was great for him to show who he was.”

Dick Butkus passed away in October. What does it mean to you to play linebacker at Illinois?

“Basically, you’re the tone setter. Playing outside linebacker is a little different, I’m more like (Whitney) Mercilus and Simeon Rice.”

Who is the NFL players you most admire?

“Aidan Hutchinson and Maxx Crosby. They play with relentless effort.”

You considered leaving for the NFL. Why did you come back?

“It really didn’t end like I wanted it to. I want to have a complete season. My mom wanted me to graduate.”

Gabe Jacas

Junior, Port St. Lucie, Fla.

What’s the one message about Illinois football you want to put out there?

“Just play as a family. That’s been our motto for years. Same thing, different year.”

Who does the best Bret Bielema impression on the team?

“I’d probably have to say (tight end) Nate Guinn. He’s pretty funny.”

When you have the quarterback in your sight, what are you thinking?

“I’ve got to get the sack. I’ve got to finish. That’s the No. 1 thing. I’m trying to hurt him. It’s a violent game. That’s how you’ve got to play.”

What happened on your first sack?

“It was against Virginia. I really just worked around the guy. I knew I could beat him with speed off the edge, so that’s what I did. (The quarterback) didn’t really see me.”

What state has the best high school football?

“Florida, hands down. There are a lot of Florida guys on the team. There’s no debate.”