Bobby Hauck out after 4 games as Illinois defensive coordinator; unit ranks near bottom in stats

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Illinois defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck has parted ways with the program just four games into his first season, coach Bret Bielema announced Sunday.

Bielema had hired the former Montana head coach to replace Aaron Henry, who left to be co-defensive coordinator at Notre Dame.

The Illini (2-2, 0-1 Big Ten) lost 42-19 at Ohio State on Saturday and enter this week 100th nationally in scoring defense, 111th in total defense and 119th in pass defense.

“Coach Hauck reached out to me early this morning and asked to meet ahead of our planned meeting time,” Bielema said. “We met and mutually agreed that a change in leadership was in the best interests of our defense. Coach Hauck and I agreed this is the best path forward for our staff, and most importantly, our student-athletes, at this time. I would like to thank Bobby for his work with our program.”

Bielema did not announce a successor to Hauck, who was hired less than a week after he announced his retirement from Montana in February.

“I enjoyed being a part of the staff here at Illinois and working alongside Coach Bielema every day,” Hauck said. "I am very appreciative of the opportunity to be here and thankful for all of the hard work from the players, coaches, and staff. I wish Illinois the best of luck.”

Illinois hosts Purdue on Saturday.

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