Illini take care of business in season opener, cruise past Western Illinois
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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – It’d be hard for Illinois fans to find much to complain about after Illini football’s season opener.

Bret Bielema’s team rolled past Western Illinois, winning 52-6.

Illinois forced a turnover on downs on Western’s first drive and didn’t look back. Senior quarterback Luke Altmyer found tight end Tanner Arkin for the first touchdown of the season.

A touchdown from Aidan Laughery and two from Ball State transfer Justin Bowick, plus a field goal from David Olano, boosted Illinois to a 31-0 halftime lead.

The game featured a whole bunch of local talent on display in orange and blue. Gibson City native Aidan Laughery ran for 101 yards and two touchdowns. Rochester’s Hank Beatty had 108 receiving yards and returned a punt 69 yards for a touchdown. Beatty’s score was the first punt return touchdown for the Illini since 2013.

Plus, Atwood’s Kaden Feagin ran for 74 yards and a touchdown.

Luke Altmyer finished the day 17-for-21 passing with 217 yards and three touchdowns.

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