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Journal Star
Illinois football vs Eastern Illinois: Live score updates, highlights from Week 1 game
By Dave Eminian, Peoria Journal Star,
4 hours ago
The Illinois Fighting Illini recovered a fumble to stop Eastern Illinois University's opening drive of the game in Week 1 of the college football season at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois.
Coach Bret Bielema and Illinois finished 5-7 last season, including 3-6 in the Big Ten. Eastern Illinois competes in the NCAA Football Championship Series as a member of the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference. EIU finished 8-3 overall last season and ranked No. 24 overall in the FCS.
Eastern Illinois was driving with a 27-yard catch by Eli Mirza to the Illini 28 on the Panthers opening possession. But EIU running back Jay Pearson fumbled on the next play and linebacker Seth Coleman recovered to give the Illini defense a stop with 9:27 left in the first quarter.
Illinois vs Eastern Illinois will broadcast nationally on Big Ten Network in Week 1 of the 2024 college football season. Mark Followill and former Illini J Leman will call the game from the booth at Memorial Stadium, with Kylen Mills reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include FUBO , which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
Illinois 35, EIU 10: EIU will provide an early challenge for the Illini, but expect things to quickly turn. The Illini won't cover the large spread, but will start a pivotal season off on a strong note.
Illinois vs Eastern Illinois betting odds
Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of Tuesday, Aug. 27
Spread : Illinois -28
Money line : Illinois -110
O/U : 45.0
Illinois vs Eastern Illinois injury updates
Illinois tight end Nathan Guinn left the team this week, according to Illini Inquirer , leaving the Illini thinner at tight end. Starter Cole Rusk was already previously sidelined for the season with a knee injury. Rusk is out, along with linebacker Mason Muragin. Defensive back Tyler Strain is questionable.
Illinois vs Eastern Illinois weather update
Expect beautiful weather tonight in Champaign, Illinois. The forecast calls for temperatures between 77 and 81 degrees during the game with clear skies and no precipitation.
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