Chambana Sun

Illinois is set to host Kansas at Memorial Stadium in Champaign on Saturday, September 7th, as part of its season-opening three-game homestand. The game will kick off at 6 p.m. CT and be broadcast nationally on FS1. Less than 1,000 tickets remain available for purchase through FightingIllini.com.

Both teams are coming off significant wins in their respective season openers. Illinois defeated Eastern Illinois with a commanding score of 45-0. In that game, quarterback Luke Altmyer scored four first-half touchdowns, and wide receiver Pat Bryant secured two receiving touchdowns. The Illinois defense forced four turnovers during the match.

Kansas also had an impressive start to the season with a 48-3 victory over Lindenwood. Running back Devin Neal achieved 112 yards and two touchdowns from just eight carries, while wide receiver Luke Grimm caught six passes for 111 yards and one touchdown.

The upcoming contest marks the seventh meeting between Illinois and Kansas, with both teams having won three games each in their past encounters. Last year's matchup saw Kansas emerge victorious in Lawrence; however, Illinois has historically performed well against Kansas when playing at home.

Alex Faust will provide play-by-play commentary for FS1's national television broadcast alongside analyst Robert Smith. On radio, ESPN will cover the event with Mike Couzens as play-by-play commentator, Jordan Reid as analyst, and Mike Peasley reporting from the field.

This weekend's game coincides with FamILLy Weekend at Memorial Stadium, celebrating new students and family experiences alongside Illini Moms and Dads Associations. Fans attending are encouraged to wear orange as part of the "Hail to the Orange Out" theme.

Additionally, several activities are planned for fans attending the game: College Football Hall of Famer Dana Howard will sound the air raid siren before kickoff; "Illini Hour" offers discounted food and drinks prior to kickoff; "The Freaky Fast 77 Yard Dash" provides entertainment between quarters; a pop-up museum commemorating Memorial Stadium's history is available; hot dogs have been reduced in price; ticket holders receive discounts on concessions; and ICON members gain special pregame access.

Illinois started its season strong under head coach Bret Bielema with a shutout win over Eastern Illinois last Thursday night at Memorial Stadium—marking their first season-opening shutout since 1986 against Louisville—and improving Bielema’s record to .500 or better through his first 38 games leading Illinois football team.