It’s been a few days now since Illinois shocked the college football world and brought in Bret Bielema as head coach.

The former Wisconsin and Arkansas leading man was part of the New York Giants staff before making his way to Champaign.

The decision has been official for a few days now. But on Monday, we saw Bielema put on his orange and blue tie and addressed the media for the first time. It’s the second time we’ve seen him since taking over the position. He was in attendance at Saturday’s game against Penn State.

Bielema held this press conference despite his parents not able to attend.

In the midst of discussing his decision to head to Champaign, Bielema broke down Illinois’ facilities and his initial discussions with the team.

Of course, Bielema had to include a reference to the I-L-L, I-N-I chant.

Bielema is tasked with taking over for Lovie Smith. Folks in Champaign seemed to think Smith was on the right track but could not put it all together.

In building a a strong roster, Bielema will be recruiting in a state that has been poached time after time by outstate coaches.

This week’s news marks Bielema’s return to the Big 10 following his stint as the leading man in Madison.