Maika Matelau
Maika Matelau is a three-star recruit from Upland, CA (No. 13 in the 2026 class) who has not played in Illinois's 8 games this season.
Where Matelau comes from
- Upland, CA
- Upland
- About 1,650 miles from Memorial Stadium (Champaign, IL)
- Three-star junior college recruit in the 2026 class.
Where Matelau fits
Illinois lists 20 offensive linemen this season.
The team’s line is 9th in the country in stuff rate allowed this season (a team number).
Illinois is 5-3. Next: vs Nebraska, Fri Nov 6.
Similar players
Also from Upland, CA
Awards
A three-star recruit at offensive line for Illinois -- now projected as a quality starter at the position.
Offensive line play doesn't show up in a box score. Here's what actually tells you whether he's good.
The unit he anchors ranks 9th nationally in stuff rate allowed this season. See the full unit breakdown →
Illinois has produced 7 All-Conference offensive linemen and 1 All-American. 7 have gone on to the NFL Draft since 2016. Alex Palczewski was one of them, an All-American.
Joined Illinois in 2026
- 2026 Illinois BielemaYear 1 · Games –
- Junior college Mt. San Antonio CollegeThree-star junior college recruit. Signed with Illinois.
- High school UplandUpland, CA
Moves
- Signed with Illinois in the 2026 class, a 3-star recruit.
2026
- Signed with Illinois3-star out of Mt. San Antonio College