Chambana Sun

Illinois head coach Bret Bielema has been named to the 2024 Paul "Bear" Bryant Coach of the Year Award watch list, as announced by the American Heart Association. This award is presented annually in January to a college football coach who exemplifies qualities such as grit, integrity, and a winning approach both on and off the field.

Under Bielema's leadership, the Fighting Illini have achieved a 5-1 start this season, including two victories against AP Top 25 teams. Illinois has maintained its position in the rankings for five consecutive weeks and is currently placed at #22.

The American Heart Association, along with the Bryant family, presents this award each year to honor Bear Bryant's legacy while raising awareness and funds for scientific research aimed at combating cardiovascular disease and stroke. These conditions are among the leading causes of death worldwide. The legendary football coach Bear Bryant passed away from a heart attack in 1983.

Now in its 39th year, the Coach of the Year award will be announced live from Houston's Post Oak Hotel on Wednesday, January 22, 2024. The awards ceremony is sponsored by Marathon Oil. The National Sports Media Association, along with the Bryant Awards' Executive Leadership Team and the Bryant Family, are responsible for voting on candidates for the watch list, finalists, and ultimately selecting the Coach of the Year recipient.

This Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT, #22 Illinois will host #24 Michigan for their Memorial Stadium Rededication Game. The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS.