Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

Illinois defeats UAB 42-23 in college football season opener

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 4:23 AM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Illinois defeats UAB 42-23 in college football season opener

Summary

Illinois opened its 2026 season with a 42-23 victory over UAB in Champaign on Thursday. Quarterback Katin Houser directed the Illinois offense, throwing for three touchdowns and adding one on the ground. The game turned on a late second-quarter Hail Mary pass from Houser to Ty Robinson, which extended the Illinois lead just before halftime. Although UAB maintained control of the clock for more than 41 minutes and received strong rushing performances from Braylon McReynolds and Roderic Robinson II, the Illinois defense and explosive play-calling secured the win. Ismael Kante also contributed a pick-six for the home team. Illinois now prepares to host Duke next Saturday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Illinois defeated UAB 42-23 in the season opener.
•Katin Houser recorded 182 passing yards and four total touchdowns.
•UAB held a significant time of possession advantage of 41:03 to 18:57.
•Ca’lil Valentine contributed a 51-yard rushing touchdown.
•Illinois hosts Duke at home next Saturday.

Latest Updates

4:23 AMYahoo Sports — Illinois takes down UAB in the season opener
4:21 AMYahoo Sports — Illinois wins season opener over UAB

What they're saying

"
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinois football is off to a 1-0 start to the year. The Illini defeated UAB 42-23 in the first game of the season, showing off a new-look defense and upgrades to Gies Memorial Stadium for the first time. Illinois got on the board early with an 18-yard reception from new Illini […]
— Yahoo Sports