The Detroit News: New Illini coach Smith working to relearn college job
After the Buccaneers fired Lovie Smith after last season, the longtime NFL coach believed he’d be taking a break before making his next move.
Then, Josh Whitman called and the break ended. The Illinois athletic director had a football program that had seen its share of turmoil and wanted Smith to take over.
“My plan was to stay out this year unless a great opportunity came along,” Smith said Wednesday during the Big Ten spring conference call.