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Illinois and Ohio State prepare for Big Ten opener on Saturday

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 3:58 AM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Illinois and Ohio State prepare for Big Ten opener on Saturday

Summary

Illinois and Ohio State will face off in their first Big Ten game of the 2026 season on Saturday, September 24. Both teams enter the matchup with a record of 2-1, having suffered losses in week two. Illinois lost at home to Duke, while Ohio State fell to Texas after relinquishing a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter. Ohio State's coach Ryan Day praised Illinois and noted the need for a solid game plan. The matchup will be Illinois' first road test of the season, with both teams looking to improve their defensive performances from recent contests.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Illinois is 2-1, with a loss to Duke in week two.
•Ohio State is 2-1, losing to Texas after a fourth-quarter lead.
•The game is set for 12 p.m. ET on Saturday.
•This will be Illinois' first road game of the season.
•Ryan Day emphasizes importance of preparation against Illinois.

Latest Updates

3:58 AMYahoo Sports — Ryan Day, Illini players/assistants preview conference opener

What they're saying

"
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois and Ohio State are set to meet in each team’s first Big Ten game of the 2026 season. Both teams enter the matchup 2-1 on the year, having each dropped week two contests. Illinois lost at home to Duke, sandwiched in between wins against UAB and SIU. Ohio State lost […]
— Yahoo Sports

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