Cover 3 College Football Cover 3 Convos: Bret Bielema Says Illinois’ Luke Altmeyer Acts Like An NFL QB + Looks Back At Citrus Bowl Incident I Big Ten Media Days Interview
Jul 26, 2025
Bret Bielema, the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini, shares insights from Big Ten Media Days. He reflects on player growth and how quarterback Luke Altmeyer embodies an NFL mindset. Bielema also discusses the emotional fallout from last season’s Citrus Bowl incident. Excitement builds for the upcoming season, with emphasis on recruitment strategies and team dynamics. Amid rising expectations, he humorously likens Big Ten coaches to UFC fighters while stressing the importance of continuity in coaching for player development.
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Preparing Players for Media Day
- Bret Bielema shares how he prepares his players for media day by coaching them on what questions to expect.
- He values the relationships built during these events, noting their lifelong impact.
Offensive Line Importance and Depth
- Prioritize offensive line depth and chemistry for a strong Big Ten team.
- Five starters playing together plus quality backups are crucial for consistent performance.
Christmas Eve Recruitment Trip
- Bielema recounts acquiring JC through a last-minute Christmas Eve trip to support the player's family.
- He immediately recognized JC’s potential as a top offensive tackle talent.