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Gaining confidence

Related Topics: Jake Hansen

URBANA — Illinois linebacker Jake Hansen suffered a leg injury Saturday and had to be helped off the field. Projected as a starter, Hansen went to the team's medical tent for treatment.

Patrick Nelson, a projected starting safety, wore a sling on one arm Saturday.

"We had a couple of injuries today, which is never good," Illinois coach Lovie Smith said. "We'll see how bad they are."

There is some good health news for Smith, especially the continued recovery of receiver Mikey Dudek. Out the past two seasons because of knee injuries, Dudek was full go again Saturday.