LAS VEGAS (WCIA) – Illinois football sent three players and head coach Bret Bielema to Las Vegas for 2025 Big Ten football media days.

The Illini opted to have quarterback Luke Altmyer, offensive lineman J.C. Davis and defensive back Xavier Scott represent them as the 2025 season approaches.

Naturally, The Orange and Blue squad had substantially more attention than it did at media days in 2024.

Illinois was picked, by the media, to finish fourth in the conference in ’25, a nine spot jump from its projection ahead of the 2024 campaign.

Luke Altmyer answered questions from reporters for a half hour on Tuesday. the Illini QB hopes to build off a breakout 2024 campaign which saw him throw for 22 touchdowns and more than 2,700 yards.

He was asked about a variety of topics on Tuesday, including multiple position groups and his own personal growth.

Some, but not all, comments from the Illinois quarterback at media days are included below:

Offensive line continuity: Illinois returns five guys on the O-line who were starting when the 2024 season ended. J.C Davis, Melvin Priestly, Josh Gesky, Josh Kreutz and Brandon Henderson all are back to protect Altmyer in his senior season.

“To have offensive lineman returning, a group that is tightly knit, unified in everything they do, connected – certainly makes a quarterback comfortable knowing he’s going to be protected by guys who are very talented, work very hard and really are prepared every single time they go,” Altmyer said. “They do their best. I know they’re gifted and they communicate well – efficiently and effectively – and they’re going to do what they have to do to put themselves in good positions. They’re going to play a long time in the NFL.”

Altmyer also acknowledged the other pieces Illinois has in that group outside of the most talked about returning five.

“Brandon Hansen and a lot of other depth pieces who we will mix in there,” Altmyer said. “A lot of offensive lineman play throughout the season… It’s a hard position to play, physically, very demanding. Got a good group, very attractive to come back because of it. Lot of comfortability, lot of trust. So, excited for it.”

Wide receiver room: This position would likely be selected by many as one of the bigger question marks on the 2025 Illinois roster. The Illini lost nearly 60% of their pass catching production (by receiving yards) in Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin. The duo combined for 14 touchdowns, including a trio of game winner’s from Bryant.

While the Illini could turn to a more ‘by committee’ approach in 2025, the now veteran quarterback also

“Lot of talent, lot of depth,” Altmyer said of his 2025 receiving room. “Probably the deepest room we’ve had but ready for that one guy to emerge as the alpha… I need a guy who believes in himself, is going to be confident, and when the ball is in the air they believe it’s theirs. That’s what I had in Pat [Bryant] and Zakhari [Franklin], they never had a doubt on that field.”

The depth chart is not quite figured out yet, he seems to think.

“Lot of guys fighting who are fighting for those jobs,” Altmyer said. “It’s a big deal, they know it is. So, they’re excited for training camp to put those talents on display and to compete at the highest level.”

The Illini brought in a pair of transfer wideouts expected, by many, to make an impact in their first season in Champaign. Hudson Clement comes to Illinois after leading West Virginia with 741 receiving yards and five touchdowns as a sophomore. Plus, Ball State transfer Justin Bowick racked up 20 receptions for 383 yards and three touchdowns in just four games with the Cardinals before redshirting in 2024.

When it comes to returners, eyes turn to Hank Beatty, Collin Dixon, Malik Elzy and others.

Physical growth: Luke Altmyer put on weight since the end of the 2024 season. He played as light as 198-200 pounds at times as a junior. After running for 217 yards and four touchdowns on the Illini’s 10-win campaign, he has intentionally added about 15-20 pounds to his frame.

He feels he added those pounds without sacrificing speed.

“It’s very comforting knowing I’m able to withstand some shots even more and be able to just deliver and kind of bring the party to that defender a little bit,” Altmyer said. “Just to be a force out there and to be full and be dense and add a lot of volume to myself while maintaining speed and agility and body control – man, that’s a good deal. I’m in the best shape of my life, that’s for sure.”

He says the 215-220 range has been his goal for gameday weight. He feels the added bulk has brought a significant strength upgrade.

Personal growth: Altmyer was asked about the biggest thing he has learned about himself throughout his college career. He offered a thoughtful and seemingly mature response.

“My character from all standpoints has just developed greatly,” he said, before citing scripture. “A bible verse that I’ve held very close to my heart throughout my college career, and it’s only grown, is 1 Thessalonians 4:11 – ‘Let it be your ambition to lead a quiet life, to work with your hands and mind your business.'”

Humility isn’t always easy when leading a successful football team.

“It’s so easy, in this day and age, to run your mouth and put yourself out there and to talk about yourself and have a big ego… Learning the habits of humility have been something that has fulfilled my life daily. It’s a daily challenge, a decision…”

It’s a challenge Altmyer takes on with motivation stemming from his faith.

“In reality I’m in need of a savior and that’s Jesus,” Altmyer said. “Humility is everything, I think. That’s something I’m always learning.”

Altmyer touched on a number of other topics, including his offensive coordinator.

Bret Bielema also talked at length. Click here for some comments from the Illini head coach.

WCIA 3 will have more coverage from media days, and fall camp in Champaign, on air and online leading up to the season opener for Illinois football on Aug. 29 at home against Western Illinois.