Ex-coach of Northern Iowa, Mark Farley, employed by Bret Bielema at Illinois
Mark Farley Joins Illinois Football Staff
In a recent announcement by Bret Bielema, the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini football team, Mark Farley has joined the university's football staff. However, the specific duties of Farley on the team were not specified.
Farley, who ended his 24-year tenure as Northern Iowa's head football coach last November, brings a wealth of experience to the Illinois team. During his time at Northern Iowa, Farley recorded a record of 183-112, with seven Missouri Valley Football Conference titles and 13 FCS playoff berths.
Carter Hewitt, a defensive lineman for Illinois, is one of the players who benefited from Farley's coaching at Northern Iowa. Hewitt, from Jewell, Iowa, transferred from Northern Iowa after spending four years under Farley's program.
It is important to note that Farley is not an assistant coach on the Illinois football team. Instead, he is likely to be serving in a senior advisor or consultant role. This is not Farley's first experience in major-college football, as he previously served as the linebackers coach at Kansas from 1997 to 2000.
Before joining Illinois, Farley returned to his alma mater, Northern Iowa, after his tenure at Kansas. His time at Northern Iowa ended in November, paving the way for his move to Illinois.
Bielema's decision to bring Farley on board is expected to bring fresh insights and expertise to the Illinois football team. With Farley's impressive track record and experience, the team is poised for a promising future.
