Illini football excited for opener against tough Toledo team and to prove themselves this season

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Published: Aug. 29, 2023 at 10:21 PM CDT
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(25News Now) - It is game week for Illinois football. The Illini open the season Saturday, September 2nd against Toledo at 6:30 p.m. at Memorial Stadium.

The excitement surrounding the team is palpable after enjoying their best season in more than a decade a season ago and the number of season ticket sales are proof. The Illini have sold more than 10,000 new season tickets for the upcoming season and expectations are high.

But head coach Bret Bielema is reminding his team not to buy into those outside expectations and overlook their Week 1 opponent. Toledo was the MAC champion a season ago and Illini are gearing up for a battle on Saturday night. They hope its a battle that will prepare them to once again prove themselves in 2023.