Illini Football Week 1 Preview: Eastern Illinois Panthers

55 Mile Faceoff

Illini Football is just 5 days away from squaring off against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers. Undoubtedly, a neat matchup, as only 55 miles separate the two Central Illinois-based universities.

The Illini hoist a 2-0 all-time vs Eastern. This will be the first time the Panthers and Illini have faced off since 2008 when Juice Williams led a Ron Zook-coached team to a sloppy win. A disappointing beginning, to what eventually became a disappointing season for Illini Football.

Is there any chance EIU can throw off Illinois mojo as they dive into the 2024 schedule?

Credit: Peoria Journal Star

Know the Panthers

EIU is looking to take a step forward as a program in 2024 under head coach Chris Wilkerson. After finishing 8-3 in 2023, their best performance since 2013, the Panthers have their eyes set on the FCS Playoffs. Certainly, an impressive goal, as EIU has not made the playoffs since 2015, under head coach Kim Dameron.

With 18 returning starters, (9 offense – 9 defense) including All-Conference talents (QB) Pierce Holley and (LB) Elijawah Tolbert, the Panthers are expected to be very competitive in the OVC. A season ago, Holley tabbed up 2,741 yards and 17 touchdowns in 11 games for Eastern’s offense. Certainly, the Panthers gunslinger is a threat to keep an eye on, if the Illini defense lets him settle into rhythm.

Bret Bielema’s thoughts:

“I have great respect for Chris.” says Bielema

“Lost of respect for what he has done.” states the Illini HC. “In his first year (2022), obviously, there was some bumps in the road. Then last year to be an 8-3 team, it isn’t realistic. I don’t know, I haven’t been in the FCS, but, they should have been a playoff team.” He continues, “A very capable offense, defense, and special teams. They have multiple players (18) back, their roster, and when you look at their 2-deep in the offense, defense, and even in the kicking game, its all juniors and seniors. Guys that are juniors and seniors that have been in their program, but also guys who have transferred in. So, a tall task for us to have. 

Bielema finishes “But, Excited to get out there in Memorial Stadium, and be apart of it.”

Credit: Fighting Illini Athletics on YouTube 

Prediction

Certainly, a ton of respect for Chris Wilkerson, and the buzz he is bringing back to college football in Charleston. However, this is a game Illini Football has to win. Illinois offense has all the tools to be explosive, and while fully healthy, I expect them to operate as such. This game is one Illinois needs to control, and win by a lot.

Illinois 52 Eastern Illinois 13

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