Chambana Sun

Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema has been named to the American Heart Association's Paul "Bear" Bryant Coach of the Year watch list, according to an announcement from the award committee.

Bielema has guided the University of Illinois Fighting Illini to a 5-2 record as they head into their off weekend. The team has faced what ESPN ranks as the fourth toughest schedule in the nation and the most difficult in the Big Ten Conference. Illinois is also ranked 13th nationally in strength of record, with a notable top-25 victory over USC.

The Bear Bryant Coach of the Year award is presented annually each January to a college football coach who demonstrates "grit, integrity, and a winning approach to coaching and life – both on and off the field," according to the award description.

The American Heart Association presents the Bear Bryant Awards every year to recognize excellence in coaching, honor coach Bryant's legacy, and support its mission of improving health outcomes. Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant passed away from a heart attack in 1983, less than a month after his retirement.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Coach of the Year award. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in Houston, Texas, on January 21, 2026. The event is presented by Memorial Hermann Health System and will air on CBS Sports Network.

Selection for the watch list, finalists, and eventual recipient is determined by votes from members of the National Sports Media Association, the Bryant Awards' Executive Leadership Team, and members of the Bryant family.

Bielema joins other coaches from across major conferences on this year's watch list, including Curt Cignetti (Indiana), Mario Cristobal (Miami), Ryan Day (Ohio State), Kalen DeBoer (Alabama), and several others.

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