Illinois defeats UAB in season opener despite defensive tackling concerns
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 2:48 PM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026
FootballIllinois secured a 42-23 victory over UAB on Thursday night at Gies Memorial Stadium. Despite the win, the Illini defense struggled with tackling and allowed the Blazers to record 413 total yards. UAB outperformed Illinois in several metrics, including total plays, first downs, and third-down conversions. Illinois head coach Bret Bielema attributed the defensive lapses to a conscious decision to limit full-contact hitting during training camp to avoid injuries. Fifth-year linebacker Ismael Kante provided a spark for the defense with a 59-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Moving forward, the team plans to focus on improving fundamental defensive execution in practice to address the missed tackles seen during the game.
- •Illinois defeated UAB 42-23 at Gies Memorial Stadium on Thursday.
- •UAB out-gained Illinois 413 total yards to 332.
- •Ismael Kante returned an interception 59 yards for a touchdown.
- •Bret Bielema limited tackling during training camp to manage team health.
- •UAB quarterback Ryder Burton finished with 219 passing yards and one rushing touchdown.
- 2:48 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois' defensive performance against UAB didn't lower any red flags
"Sep. 4—CHAMPAIGN — The 13 yards Roderick Robinson II covered on the first play of Thursday night's game at Gies Memorial Stadium was a glimpse of what turn into a growing problem for Illinois. Robinson took advantage of an Illini defense that overloaded one side of the field, cutting back to his left and plenty of open green space. James Kreutz missed the first attempt to tackle the UAB ...
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