Illinois coach Bret Bielema engaged in another social media exchange Wednesday, responding to criticism about his online presence just days into the college football season.
The interaction began after Bielema commented on quarterback Luke Altmyer’s response to Josh Pate’s unofficial rankings. When Pate responded firmly, Bielema stepped back.
A Twitter user with zero followers then challenged Bielema about his social media activity, referencing his previous position at Arkansas.
I’ve never seen a coach fight so hard to stay relevant. Where was this passion before you got fired at Arkansas?
Bielema, who went 29-34 with the Razorbacks from 2013-2017, fired back.
Well, my friend, before going there, we won three straight titles, and graduation rates were among the highest in the country. I was just trying to be RELEVANT in your head.
The exchange follows Bielema’s established pattern of social media engagement. He previously had a public discussion with Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin about College Football Playoff selections.
The Illinois program has shown improvement under Bielema’s leadership. The team finished the 2022 season with a 21-17 victory over South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, completing a 10-3 campaign.
The Illini reached No. 16 in the final AP Poll, their first ranked finish since 2007.
Illinois now aims for consecutive winning seasons for the first time in Bielema’s tenure as head coach.
