Adam Hicks
Author
(Photo by Patrick Pierson) – University of Illinois
The season opener is set for Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, with coverage on Peacock. But this isn’t just a game—this could be the start of something truly epic.
Illinois enters the 2025 season ranked #12 in both the AP and Coaches Polls—their highest preseason mark since the early ‘90s. Buzz is building, and for good reason.
This Illini squad brings back a stacked roster, returning more starters than nearly any team in the Power 4—second only behind one. Coming off a 10-win season and a Citrus Bowl victory over a red-hot South Carolina team, the Illini are out to prove last year was just the beginning.
Season tickets are flying off the shelves. There’s an electricity in Champaign we haven’t seen in decades. Under those Friday night lights, Illinois kicks off what could be a season to remember against Western Illinois.
Make no mistake—this is a “paycheck game” for Western Illinois. The Illini are favored by 45.5 points, with an over/under of 63.5. It’s a warm-up, a chance to grease the wheels before a massive Week 2 test against Duke.
It might be a blowout on paper, but it’s also a launchpad.
QB Luke Altmyer is back behind center—bringing with him some early Heisman whispers and preseason Big Ten honors. He’s joined by defensive wrecking ball OLB Gabe Jacas, who returns after posting 74 tackles, 13 TFL, and 8 sacks last season. Could Jacas be making a run at the Butkus Award?
While this Friday may be a slow burn, the fire’s coming. These games will define the Illini’s season:
The energy is different. The expectations are real. The campaign begins in Champaign, and all eyes are on Bret Bielema’s Fighting Illini.
“The yell that always thrills me, and fills my heart with joy—it’s the good old Oskee-wow-wow, that they yell at Illinois!”
Oskee-wow-wow, Illinois. 2025 is here. Let’s ride.
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