Antonio James named honorary captain for Illinois vs. Western Illinois football game

Antonio James, Assistant Defensive Line Coach | University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men's Football

By Chambana Sun

Sep 3, 2025

Former Illinois defensive lineman Antonio James will act as honorary captain for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team during their game against Western Illinois on Friday. The game is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on Peacock.

James played for the Fighting Illini from 2006 to 2009, earning four letters and contributing to the team's appearance in the 2008 Rose Bowl Game. He completed his bachelor's degree in history at the University of Illinois in 2010.

After his playing career, James began coaching with positions at Urbana High School, Michigan, Morgan State, and Southern Illinois before returning to Illinois. He is currently serving his first season as an assistant defensive line coach for the Fighting Illini in 2025.

Tickets for Friday's matchup are available through the official athletics website.

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University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men's Football

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