Patrick Embleton Executive Director of Personnel and Recruiting | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Patrick Embleton Executive Director of Personnel and Recruiting | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema has been included in the midseason watch list for the 2024 Dodd Trophy. This announcement was made by officials from the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation and Peach Bowl, Inc., on Thursday afternoon. It follows closely after Bielema's inclusion in the Paul "Bear" Bryant Coach of the Year watch list.
Under Bielema's leadership, the Fighting Illini have achieved a strong start to their season with a 5-1 record, including two victories against AP Top 25 teams. Illinois has maintained a presence in the rankings for five consecutive weeks, currently positioned at #22.
The Dodd Trophy, named after legendary Georgia Tech coach Bobby Dodd, was established in 1976. It recognizes an FBS football coach whose program exemplifies success through scholarship, leadership, and integrity. The award not only acknowledges on-field achievements but also emphasizes academic excellence and community involvement.
This weekend, #22 Illinois will face off against #24 Michigan at Memorial Stadium as part of its Rededication Game. The match is scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast nationally on CBS.
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