Western Illinois came out of the gates looking okay offensively, but that changed in a hurry.
Momentum completely changed early in the first quarter in favor of the Illini, after the Leathernecks put their necks on the line in the form of a fourth down attempt.
Western Illinois threw a pass that was caught, but the Illini made a great defensive play and tackled the wide receiver short of the line. They also had a pick play, which would have had the play called back.
There was a massive injury scare during the first quarter. With just over eight minutes to go in the first quarter, Illinois right tackle Melvin Priestly went down with what looked to be a leg injury.
This was startling news, considering fans were surprised that Illinois was going to be without starting right guard Brandon Henderson for the game. Now, Priestly looked to be out.
Just a couple of minutes later, Priestly was thankfully seen back on the field manning his right tackle position.
Luke Altmyer looks great in the first quarter for the Illinois football program
From 2023 to 2024, Luke Altmyer’s progression was very noticeable. He grew as a quarterback, and it showed in the form of 10 wins.
I believe we are already seeing more progression from Altmyer in 2025. His pocket presence is so calm, and he is going through his progressions. He has also developed some nice chemistry with his new wide receivers.
After the first quarter, Illinois is up 14-0, and Altmyer is 6-of-7 for 47 yards and two touchdowns. More is for sure to come, too. There is a ton of quality quarterback play right now.