On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset presented by CoachComm, we are featuring Illinois Head Coach, Bret Bielema’s General Session speech from the 2023 AFCA Convention. In this talk, Coach Bielema discusses how he creates a culture of being Tough, Smart, and Dependable, defines important characteristics of Illinois Football, and gives some practical advice to young coaches. Coach Bielema just completed his third season as the Head Coach of the Fighting Illini. 

Connect with Coach Bielema and Illinois football on social media here. 

@BretBielema & @IlliniFootball  

Show Notes:  

1:06 Introduction 

3:41 Career Highlights 

5:20 Tough. Smart. Dependable. 

7:35 Characteristics of Illinois Football 

13:55 Practice Planning  

19:21 In-Practice Drills 

31:05 Culture outside of the building  

32:08 Choose a job you love 

33:10 Conclusion