Bret Bielema ‘s team climbed to No.9 (Associated Press ranking) this week, which marks the program’s first appearance in the top 10 in nearly two decades. Back in 2020, people were surprised when Illinois Athletic Director Josh Whitman took a chance on Bret Bielema. But his influence has been undeniable. The team is 2-0 in the third week of the 2025 season, has already scored close to 100 points, forced turnovers, and is moving up the rankings at a rapid pace.

Fans are rallying behind the new energy and identity he has brought to the program. The excitement grew even stronger when businessman and alumnus Larry Gies pledged $100 million to the athletic department, the largest donation in Illinois athletics history. The stadium will be renamed in honor of his late father, a U.S. Army v

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