Illinois head coach Bret Bielema speaks to the media during the Big Ten football media days at Hilton Chicago on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in Chicago.

On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, Illinois head coach Bret Bielema addressed the media during the Big Ten football media days held at Hilton Chicago. Simultaneously, the St. Louis Cardinals faced the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. Key game moments included first baseman Alec Burleson swinging at-bat, outfielder Jordan Walker catching a fly ball, and pitcher Michael McGreevy delivering pitches, all occurring during the first inning of the professional baseball matchup.