2026 Week 1 Film Review: Blazing A New Trail in Win vs. UAB

IlliniGuys.com begins its sixth season of providing an in-depth film review following each Illinois football game. 

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

September 5, 2026

CHAMPAIGN — The debut of Illinois defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck and the transition to the 3-3-5 scheme on Thursday night was going to be defined by a three-word phrase: Proof. Of. Concept.

In one aspect of the 42-23 win over Alabama-Birmingham to open the 2026 campaign, there was a demonstration used to show this change can work. And in one another aspect the same problems that plagued the . . .

 

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