Illinois Coach Beckman Apologizes for Tobacco Use

Fighting Illini football coach Tim Beckman committed a secondary violation of the NCAA after he was caught stuffing a wad of smokeless tobacco in his mouth during this weekend's game at Wisconsin.

Use of tobacco products is prohibited during games and practices.

Speaking during a press conference Monday, Beckman issued a brief apology.

“I’ve talked to our athletic director concerning the situation, and as I’ve mentioned before, I apologize," he said. "It is a terrible habit. My father even texted me and stated that he’s sorry. It will be adjusted, and it will not happen again.”

Illini Sports Information Director Kent Brown said the violation will be reported to the NCAA and the Big Ten Conference. Brown said a letter of reprimand will also go in Beckman’s employee file.