Illini QB Jon Beutjer to miss Michigan game

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Illinois quarterback John Beutjer will miss Saturday's game against No. 17 Michigan because of persistent back pain.

Beutjer's injury became apparent when he missed practice Sunday after playing in the Illini's 49-14 loss to Michigan State a day earlier. But coach Ron Turner said Beutjer's back had been bothering him for a couple of weeks.

"It's not going to get better unless he rests, so the doctors recommended that he sit this week," team spokeswoman Cassie Arner said Tuesday.

Beutjer's situation is week-to-week, Arner said.

The senior has completed 63 percent of his passes for 1,597 yards and 10 touchdowns in seven games this season.

Turner did not immediately name Beutjer's replacement. Either senior Dustin Ward, who started five games last season, or redshirt freshman Chris Pazan will get the call based on their performance in practice this week.

This story is from ESPN.com's automated news wire. Wire index

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