Bielema on Illini DC Aaron Henry: ‘I want to empower him’

Illinois head coach Bret Bielema says he sees his job to help provide defensive coordinator Aaron Henry with as much information, knowledge and assistance as the Illini host Rutgers this weekend.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

October 27, 2025

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — It’s fairly clear that instead of taking away, limiting or restricting Aaron Henry’s responsibilities, Bret Bielema feels like his role is to help the Illinois defensive play-caller with more information.

In his weekly media conference inside Gies Memorial Stadium Monday afternoon, Bielema suggested his plan was to do scouting of Rutgers’ offense and provide . . .

 

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