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Illinois prepares for road matchup against Ohio State after unique scrimmage

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 2:47 PM

Last updated Sep 23, 2026

Football

Summary

Illinois football is set to face No. 7 Ohio State in Columbus on Saturday. Head coach Bret Bielema organized a unique preseason scrimmage, simulating an away game experience for players. This approach aimed to address the team's struggles on the road, where they have a 12-13 record under Bielema. Christian Abney noted that experiencing the visiting locker room and other away-game circumstances helped prepare the team for the upcoming challenge. Bielema emphasized the significance of being mentally ready for the tough environment at Ohio Stadium, calling it one of the most challenging settings in college football.

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By the Numbers

•Illinois plays at No. 7 Ohio State on Saturday
•Bielema's scrimmage simulated an away game
•Team holds a 12-13 road record under Bielema
•Coach emphasizes preparation for hostile crowds
•Forecast for the game includes partially sunny skies

Latest Updates

2:47 PMYahoo Sports — Will unique preseason prep help Illinois on the road this weekend?

What they're saying

"
Sep. 23—CHAMPAIGN — Two months ago, Christian Abney couldn't have told you where the visitor's locker room was at Gies Memorial Stadium. That's not some indictment about the Illinois tight end's knowledge of his team's home stadium. Abney and his teammates would have zero reason to seek out the visiting team's home away from home on game day in Champaign. How Abney came to experience all the ...
— Yahoo Sports

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