Illinois head coach Bret Bielema would rather not hear about historical disappointments following successful seasons and subsequent preseason hype.
By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst
August 25, 2025
CHAMPAIGN — Yes, Bret Bielema knows the history of the football program he’s in charge of.
He understands Illinois will begin its 2025 season with a number by its name for the first time since 2008 after being ranked No. 12 in both the Associated Press and Coaches preseason polls. Bielema has been informed the last time Illinois began a season ranked in the preseason and finished a year ranked was . . .
Premium Members Only. Please Subscribe To View The Full Article
- One-stop destination for Illini sports news, analysis and interactive contents.
- Weekly podcasts including "Sturdy for 30" and "I on the Illini"
- Illini Guys Zoom Calls" during games and special events
- Special appearances by "Illini Legends" and other national sports personalities
- Video breakdowns and game analysis
- Owned, managed and run by diehard Illini fans for Illini fans everywhere