Illinois Football Making a Big Hire From the ACC

Illinois Football Making a Big Hire From the ACC

Illinois Football is looking to round out their coaching staff for the 2024 season. Though we have been in the heat of Illini Basketball, it’s Bret Bielema’s team making headlines on March 9th. After the loss of Outside Linebackers coach Charlie Bullen to the New York Giants, it seems that a replacement hire is done. Clint Sintim, a 38-year-old native of Woodbridge Virginia, and former 4-year letterman for the Virginia Cavaliers is the next man up for Bielema.

Why Sintim

Sintim was a team captain, and played an All-American career for the Wahoos from 2005-2008. Finishing with 245 tackles, 29 sacks and 46 tackles for loss. Certainly a stud on the gridiron, who was nothing to play with in his time. A student of the game off the field as well, who quickly transitioned to coaching after playing a short NFL career with the NY Giants. The Virginia legend was the only holdover left from Bronco Mendenhall’s staff, and his loss seems to be a blow to the fanbase. Much like when Illinois Football lost Nathan Scheelhaase to Iowa State, you never want to see your former star go to another team. However, as expected, lots of expressed joy from Virginia fans for the next big step in Clint’s career. Clint spent the previous four seasons at Virginia as a Defensive line transitioned Linebackers coach from 2020-2023. In his first year as LB coach, the Cav’s improved to 3rd in the ACC in pass defense. Not to mention 5th in average sacks per game and 5th in passing efficiency.

Thoughts

Illinois needs to get the best out of Gabe Jacas, Seth Coleman, and the rest of the Illinois Linebackers room in 2024. Sintim is a young and intellectual presence that can help the Illini maximize. Bielema is certainly not afraid to take a chance on young coaches making their way up in the ranks. Antonio Fenelus, Terrance Jamison, Aaron Henry, Ryan Walters, all youngers guys who Bret has at least attempted under his wing at Illinois. The big question will always remain recruiting. There is solid experience on the recruiting trail for Sintim. Clint was able to land a guy like 2023 4-star LB Kam Robinson for the Wahoos. Of course, to a program that has had some problems and transition. If he can bring that experience, and create success in the DC/Baltimore area for Illinois, it another major tool in the belt. Certainly, Ron Zoon had success in the area with players like Arrelious Benn. Now, Clint can get Illinois back in the game on the East Coast.

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