CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Fighting Illini football team just kicked off against Central Michigan in front of an energetic crowd. Illinois has enjoyed a 2-0 start to start the 2024 season. The Illini haven’t won three games in a row to open a season since 2011. University of Illinois Chancellor Robert Jones was the celebrity sounder of the Illini air raid siren right before kickoff.

Illinois basketball coach Brad Underwood showed up to show his support for the football team.
The Illinois football team was fired up for a possible 3-0 start for the first time since 2011.

Head coach Bret Bielema enjoyed a 32-17 victory against Kansas last weekend in front of a sellout crowd.

Kick-off temperature was 80 degrees, and it is expected to be close to 90 by the end of the game.