Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

Ca'Lil Valentine leads Illinois with speed and power against UAB

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 2:49 PM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Football

Summary

Ca'Lil Valentine provided a standout performance in the Illinois opening game against UAB, recording 88 yards on 11 carries. The highlight of the victory was a 51-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, the longest play from scrimmage in his career with the Illini. Valentine also contributed as a blocker, helping spring quarterback Katin Houser for a 6-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Illinois defeated the Blazers 42-23 to secure the win. Now in his third season, the junior running back noted that he feels more comfortable in the system under offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. and running backs coach Tyrone Wheatley. The team expects him to remain a focal point of the offense moving forward.

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By the Numbers

•Illinois defeated UAB 42-23 in the team's opening game.
•Ca'Lil Valentine recorded 88 rushing yards and one 51-yard touchdown.
•The 51-yard run marked a career-long play from scrimmage for the junior.
•Valentine assisted a Katin Houser touchdown with a fourth-quarter block.
•Tyrone Wheatley is the running backs coach for Illinois this season.

Latest Updates

2:49 PMYahoo Sports — Valentine showing off his speed, power

What they're saying

"
Sep. 9—CHAMPAIGN — For Illinois fans in the stands and at home, the highlight of Ca'Lil Valentine's opening game seemed obvious: his 51-yard first-quarter dash for a touchdown. It gave Illinois a 14-3 lead against UAB, was the longest play from scrimmage for Valentine in his three seasons with the Illini and helped Illinois defeat the Blazers 42-23. "He can take one of those inside zones and ...
— Yahoo Sports

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