Way-too-early rankings of Big Ten defensive units ahead of the 2024 season

Illinois has climbed up Big Ten power rankings in almost every statistical category throughout the past few years.

From the transfer portal, head coach Bret Bielema brought in multiple three-star defensive players this offseason along with four-star cornerback Terrance Brooks from the Texas Longhorns.

The additional defensive juggernauts to Illinois' already improved defensive unit should make for an excellent squad for the Fighting Illini.