Illinois' Desmond Cain: Nearing return from knee injury

Cain (knee) returned to practice this week but it is unclear when he will return to game action, Shannon Ryan of The Chicago Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Head coach Lovie Smith told reporters that Cain is getting "closer" to getting back onto the field after the receiver missed several weeks with a knee injury. It's encouraging that Cain is back to practicing, but the long layoff will likely make it difficult for him to be conditioned enough to take the field this weekend against Rutgers. Look for Malik Turner to see the bulk of the targets once again this week whether or not Cain is ready to play against the Scarlet Knights.