Reopening Memorial Stadium proved to be a blessed affair for the Illini as they topped Eastern Illinois 47-21. Improving to 1-1 on the season, the team was led by quarterback Juice Williams who broke his own quarterback rushing record. The Panthers made a valiant effort in the final quarter, scoring two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to secure the comeback.

With two rushing touchdowns by Arrelious Benn, the Orange and Blue easily cruised to a lopsided win over the Panthers. Compared to their loss to Mizzou, Illinois’ offensive attack was more balanced between its running and passing game. Tied in the first quarter 7-7, the Illini opened up the game in the second and led 26-7 at the half.