Illinois Coach Bret Bielema Gives Luke Altmyer a Major Endorsement
It’s easy to understand why Bret Bielema holds quarterback Luke Altmyer in such high esteem—especially when Altmyer confidently says, “I don’t have a doubt when I go out on that field.”
If nothing else, the last two weeks of Illinois football have given fans two solid wins and a climb in the AP Top 25 rankings. But perhaps even more significantly, they’ve showcased what might be the best version of Luke Altmyer yet.
Altmyer, now emerging as a potential Heisman candidate, hasn’t just met expectations—he’s shattered them. He’s consistently defied typical quarterback standards all season long. In Week 5 against USC, he threw a touchdown, rushed for another, and even caught a touchdown pass. Then, in Saturday’s game against Purdue, he recorded a career-best 390 passing yards and added his 12th touchdown of the season—all without a single interception so far in 2025.
Bielema Weighs In
Bielema, who isn’t one to hand out praise lightly, especially to top-tier performers, had high praise for his quarterback after the Purdue victory. He highlighted Altmyer’s preparation and mindset before offering perhaps his most powerful comment yet:
“I can’t control the outside narrative,” Bielema said. “I just know I’ve been in this game for a long time. We’ve had quarterbacks that play in the NFL, are still playing in the NFL, and this guy’s as good as I’ve ever had.”
https://twitter.com/glenn_kinley/status/1974597099116429498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1974597099116429498%7Ctwgr%5E93303d070d57f2c2bc0568e2c49f503de9d8dde7%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fcollege%2Fillinois%2Ffootball%2Fillinois-bret-bielema-pays-luke-altmyer-powerful-compliment
That’s no small statement considering Bielema’s quarterback résumé includes notable names like:
-
Brandon Allen, a three-year starter at Arkansas and NFL draft pick;
-
Tommy DeVito, who started eight NFL games for the Giants and is now with the Patriots;
-
and Russell Wilson, a 14-year NFL veteran, Super Bowl champion, and 10-time Pro Bowler.
Altmyer on His Growth
Altmyer credits his growth to both physical development and mental maturity. The game, he says, has begun to slow down for him. He’s built strong connections with his offensive line and coordinator Barry Lunney Jr., and now operates with a deep sense of trust in those around him.
“I was good last year because I trusted the people around me—my offensive line, Pat [Bryant], and Zakhari [Franklin], especially; they’re very talented,” Altmyer said. “It’s the same this year. I’m playing at a high level because I trust my teammates, and I feel completely in sync with them. I step on that field without any doubt.”
No Comment! Be the first one.