Each week, the Dodd Trophy announces its Coach of the Week throughout the college football season.

After Week 8, the Dodd Trophy gave its honor to a Big Ten coach:

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Why Lovie Smith? What made him so worthy of the honor?

Well, Illinois just came through with the biggest upset of the 2019 season. It beat an undefeated Wisconsin team that had shutout four of its six opponents this season. The Badgers looked like an absolutely force to be reckoned with.

But then, it traveled to Champaign and lost for Illinois’ homecoming. Smith and the Fighting Illini didn’t demolish the Badgers, but a 24-23 victory is something that no other team can claim against Paul Chryst’s group.

Wisconsin has been thrashing every opponent put in front of it this season.

Again, until Smith and Illinois were present.