Illini football completes nonconference slate undefeated for third time in four seasons

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - After a slow start in Saturday's contest with Western Michigan, the 9th ranked Illinois football team responded with 28 second half points to beat the Broncos, 38-0.

As the team turns focus toward opening Big Ten play against #19 Indiana, players say the first three games have offered plenty of opportunities to learn about their strengths and weaknesses. Their goal this week is to correct them before going on the road to face the Hoosiers.

"It's good to have these moments right now so early," quarterback Luke Altmyer said. "I think we're on the right track. It's good to have that second half to overcome resiliency, bouncing back from some struggles."

The Illini led 10-0 at halftime over WMU, despite entering the game as heavy favorites. A strong showing by the defense enabled Illinois to keep the Broncos off the scoreboard. During the break, players and coaches made the necessary adjustments right the ship and help the team pull away.

"Our coaches, they come in, they dissect what's going on and they do the best job they can to adapt," said linebacker Kenenna Odeluga. "At the end of the day, they expect us to go out and do the job and they put us in the best position to do that."

The Illini completed their nonconference slate undefeated for the third time in four seasons. Previously, the feat had only been achieved once in the stretch from 2002 to 2021, in 2011.

Illinois will make the trip to Bloomington, Indiana, on September 20 for their first Top 25 matchup of the season. The game kicks off at 6:30pm CST and will be broadcast on WAND.