CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois football head coach Bret Bielema is in the running for a prestigious coaching award this season.
Bielema was named to the Dodd Coach of the Year midseason watch list Wednesday. He has led the #23 Illini to a 5-2 record this season, playing the sixth strongest schedule in the nation, according to ESPN.
The award honors the head football coach whose program represents the highest ideals on and of the field. This year's list includes 24 of the nation's top coaches.
A panel consisting of previous winners, national media, a member of the Dodd family and a college football hall of fame member will put together a list of finalists after the season.
The winner will be announced in Atlanta during the week of the college football playoff semifinals at the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl.
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