Did Illinois football make the final AP Top 25 for the 2025-26 season?

No, Illinois narrowly missed the final AP Top 25 for the 2025-26 season, finishing just two points behind the No. 25 ranked team.

What was Bret Bielema's reaction to the AP Poll results?

Coach Bret Bielema expressed surprise and questioned the logic of the AP Poll voters, citing perceived inconsistencies in rankings.

What is Illinois football's achievement in bowl games?

Illinois achieved back-to-back bowl game wins for the first time in program history during the 2025-26 season.

Home / Sports / Illinois Football Denied Top 25 Ranking by Razor-Thin Margin

Illinois Football Denied Top 25 Ranking by Razor-Thin Margin

22 Jan

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Summary

Illinois finished one spot shy of the top 25, missing by just two points.
Coach Bielema questioned the AP Poll voters' logic and consistency.
The team achieved consecutive bowl game wins for the first time ever.

Illinois Football Denied Top 25 Ranking by Razor-Thin Margin

The Illinois Fighting Illini concluded the 2025-26 college football season narrowly missing a Top 25 ranking in the final AP Poll, finishing just two points shy of No. 25. This outcome followed a strong 9-4 season for the team, which secured consecutive bowl game wins for the first time in program history.

Head coach Bret Bielema voiced his dissatisfaction with the poll results, publicly questioning the voting logic. He highlighted inconsistencies, such as USC falling in rankings despite a head-to-head loss to Illinois. Notably, the team did secure a No. 25 ranking in the USA Today Coaches Poll, offering some consolation.

The season's highlight included a dramatic 30-28 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers in the Music City Bowl. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the program, demonstrating sustained success under Bielema's leadership and setting a positive trajectory for future seasons.