Ep. 1199 - Exclusives: Bret Bielema & Josh Whitman go in-depth at Big Ten Media Days
Summary
Hosts Jeremy Warner and Joey Wagner interview Illinois head coach Bret Bielema and athletic director Josh Whitman at Big Ten Media Days. Bielema discusses the 2026 roster, defensive scheme changes, and quarterback Keaton Hauser’s leadership. Whitman details his new 10-year contract extension and its significance for the program’s long-term stability.
Topics discussed
Intro and Big Ten Media Days overview
Interview with Head Coach Bret Bielema on roster and defense
Offensive updates: QB Caten Hauser and skill positions
Offensive line depth and tight end development
Defensive restructuring, coaching staff, and media management
Ad breaks: ROW, IXL, and FanDuel
Interview with AD Josh Whitman on contract and Big Ten growth
Big Ten realignment, NIL, and conference leadership
Outro and preview of upcoming podcast episodes
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