Chambana Sun

Illinois secured a decisive victory in its 2024 season opener, defeating Eastern Illinois University (EIU) 45-0 at Memorial Stadium on Thursday night.

Head coach Bret Bielema extended his perfect record in season openers to 4-0 since taking over in 2021. The Illini recorded their first shutout since 2022.

The team amassed 486 total yards of offense and six touchdowns, while the defense forced four turnovers and allowed only 49 rushing yards.

Quarterback Luke Altmyer achieved a career-high with four passing touchdowns—all in the first half—completing 19 of 24 passes for 213 yards. Pat Bryant led the receivers with five catches for 63 yards and two touchdowns, marking his second multi-touchdown game. Kaden Feagin surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark for the first time, finishing with 108 yards on 16 carries and one touchdown. Aidan Laughery added another career-best performance with ten rushes for 79 yards.

Tanner Arkin and Malik Elzy each caught a touchdown pass, while Josh McCray scored on a ground play. Defensive highlights included Miles Scott's interception and forced fumble, Torrie Cox Jr.'s interception, and Dylan Rosiek's forced fumble.

After an initial punt by Illinois, Miles Scott forced a fumble that Seth Coleman recovered. This turnover set up Illinois' first touchdown drive, culminating in Altmyer's pass to Bryant. Following another EIU three-and-out, Altmyer connected with Arkin for his second touchdown pass of the night.

Scott then intercepted a pass early in the second quarter, leading to a field goal by David Olano. Cox’s interception later set up another quick scoring drive where Altmyer found Bryant again for a touchdown. Before halftime, Altmyer threw his fourth touchdown pass to Elzy.

In the second half, Illinois continued their dominance with Feagin scoring from one yard out after an extensive drive. Rosiek's forced fumble led to McCray’s touchdown run early in the fourth quarter.

Illinois will next host No. 22 Kansas at Memorial Stadium on September 7th at 6 p.m., broadcasted on FS1.

Postgame notes highlight Bielema's improved record to .500 or better through his first 38 games as head coach—the best start since Lou Tepper in the mid-1990s—and maintain Illinois' undefeated record against FCS opponents.

Player performances were notable: Altmyer’s consecutive three-touchdown games; Feagin’s first career game exceeding 100 rushing yards; Bryant’s consistent receptions streak; Elzy’s career-long reception; Arkin’s second-career touchdown catch; Scott's dual turnovers; and Cox Jr.'s first interception for Illinois.

Quotes from players and coaches emphasized confidence-building performances and preparation for future challenges:

Bret Bielema praised new players' contributions: "Every time you assemble a new team you don't really know how they're going to react until the bullets are flying around... I was happy with that."

Luke Altmyer expressed growing confidence: "My confidence is growing... I'm looking forward to playing with the same perspective this year."

Pat Bryant highlighted team physicality: "That's our whole mindset... we even have smaller guys going out there and getting a little bit of contact."

Miles Scott focused on future games: "We'll get back to it tomorrow... We're worried about Kansas now."

Torrie Cox Jr., reflecting on his starting role: "It means a lot to me... I've been working hard to be a starter."

The team's comprehensive performance sets an optimistic tone as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against Kansas.

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