Nebraska opponent fires defensive coordinator four games into season

A Big Ten team and future Nebraska opponent has made a coaching change. Illinois fired defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck on Sunday.

Hauck was in his first season with the program after replacing Aaron Henry. Henry left Illinois to join Notre Dame's staff. Hauck previously coached at the University of Montana.

Head coach Bret Bielema brought in Hauck in hopes of revamping the Illinois defense. However, the Fighting Illini were struggling to adjust to the new 3-3-5 defense.

The firing comes right after Illinois lost to Ohio State 42-19 on Saturday. That marked their second straight loss, after a 31-27 loss to Duke the week before.

Illinois ranks 101st in points allowed per game at 26.5. They also rank 111th in total offense, allowing 391 yards per game.

This is a notable development for the Huskers. Nebraska faces Illinois on November 6, in what could be an important game for both programs.

BREAKING: Illinois has parted ways with defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck, the school announced.

Hauck was hired in February.https://t.co/K5XGB4Apmfpic.twitter.com/zc2wvF5rgr

— On3 (@On3) September 27, 2026

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This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Nebraska opponent fires defensive coordinator four games into season