Illinois, DC Bobby Hauck mutually part ways after four games

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Illinois and first-year defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck mutually agreed Sunday to a change in defensive leadership after only four games, head coach Bret Bielema said in a statement released by the program less than a day after a 42-19 loss at No. 7 Ohio State. Hauck, hired in February after retiring as Montana’s head coach, asked to meet early Sunday; both sides said parting was in the best interests of the defense and student-athletes. No in-season replacement was named; Bielema said a plan is being communicated internally. Through four games Illinois ranks near the bottom nationally in total defense. Sources: News-Gazette (Scott Richey), On3.