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Illinois Hires Bobby Hauck as New Defensive Coordinator

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bobby Hauck was hired as the Illinois football team's new defensive coordinator, announced by head coach Bret Bielema.
He recently retired from a successful tenure at Montana, with 151 wins and eight Big Sky titles.
His aggressive 3-3-5 scheme ranked among Montana's top defenses in scoring and turnovers.
The appointment remains pending approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees.

History

Historical Context

The Montana Grizzlies football team, founded in 1897, has a storied history in the Big Sky Conference, winning two national championships in 1995 and 2001. Under coach Bobby Hauck, who returned in 2018, the team secured 151 wins and eight Big Sky titles by 2021. Hauck's recent appointment as Illinois' defensive coordinator reflects a trend of universities prioritizing experienced coaches to enhance performance.

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Story summary

Bobby Hauck was hired as the Illinois football team's new defensive coordinator, announced by head coach Bret Bielema.
He recently retired from a successful tenure at Montana, with 151 wins and eight Big Sky titles.
His aggressive 3-3-5 scheme ranked among Montana's top defenses in scoring and turnovers.
The appointment remains pending approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees.

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