Illinois got some bad news Sunday when an MRI revealed that offensive guard Bryan Koch will be out for the season with torn anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his right knee.
The fifth-year senior was injured early in Saturday’s 52-13 rout of Florida A&M. Last season Koch started the first seven games but missed the last four with a herniated disc in his neck.
Koch could return next season as a sixth-year senior if he appeals and the NCAA decides to grant the request. . . .
Brad Bower, a redshirt freshman quarterback from Hinsdale Central, made his collegiate debut when he relieved Jon Beutjer with the Illini leading 52-0. He completed 2 of 5 passes for 30 yards. . . .
True freshman running back Brock Bolen also got his first taste of college football when he took the field in the third quarter. Bolen wound up carrying the ball 11 times and gaining 51 yards.