The Illini offensive line had been spared much of the criticism heaped upon most of the team until last week’s loss to Michigan State. Not that the line had been great but it wasn’t as dreadful as, say, the passing game or the secondary.

But center Eric Block said this week that the team has held what amounts to “open competition” for starting jobs and playing time at several positions.

“We’re trying new guys at right tackle, left tackle, left guard,” he said. “We’re trying people out all over the place, trying to find those five guys for us.”

The depth chart remains unchanged with sophomore Jeff Allen at left tackle, junior Randall Hunt at left guard, Block at center, senior Jon Asamoah at right guard and junior Ryan Palmer at right tackle. But coach Ron Zook said the coaches are looking at changes, mentioning tackle Corey Lewis and guard Graham Pocic specially as players who could see expanded roles.

Block, who has played guard in the past, said he would be open to playing another position and said Asamoah is capable as well.

“They’re playing around with a lot of guys, rotating guys in, so we’ve got a lot of different looks,” he said. “I don’t know if they’re going to be moving me and Jon but if they do that’s fine. We can play other positions.”

Illinois is fifth overall in the Big Ten in rushing offense but only eighth in conference games at 114.7 yards per game. More problematic, the Illini have allowed a conference-high 17 sacks while playing one less game than other teams. Only six teams in the country allow more sacks per game than the Illini.

Block and his linemates are playing for first-year offensive line coach Joe Gilbert, but Block said there have been few changes.

“He’s handling it well but this past game was frustrating for us,” Block said. “It seemed like every play there was somebody busted. It doesn’t matter if four do their job, if one of the five screws up we have a busted play. Right now it’s time to make decisions up front.”