Bret Bielema was thrown a curveball early in the Q&A session of his appearance at Big Ten media days on Wednesday, but the Illinois coach hit the “Barbie” question right out of the park.

The first questions, of course, was in reference to the Northwestern hazing investigation before he was asked about Hollywood’s latest summer movie.

A reported, said, “I’m going to throw a non-football question your way. The new ‘Barbie’ movie is out. Have you taken your daughters to see it? Do you have plans to go see it? Can you give us thoughts on this new movie?”

Bielema, the former Arkansas coach, was up to the task.

“I saw a social media tweet about the money it brought in over the weekend compared to the next rated movie is pretty impressive,” he said. “I see a lot of Barbies. I have a 6-year-old and a 4-year-old. I know my 6-year-old is watching. Hi, Briella. We bought a lot of Barbie stuff for 20 bucks.

“I don’t really get to talk a lot of Barbie, so I appreciate the question. Have not taken her to see it, but I’m sure we’re going to see it. We’re in the mermaid mode right now, so we’re still heavy into mermaids.”

Non-football questions are not uncommon at conference media day events. They have almost started to morph into what Super Bowl media day has become with questions of all variety being asked.

Last week, at SEC media days, Nick Saban was asked his favorite cake. The Alabama coach also was asked what his pregame playlist consists of.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.