Sept. 04--TV/radio: 8 p.m. Friday; BTN, WSCR-AM 670.
Line: Illinois by 14.
2014 records: Kent State 2-9; Illinois 6-7.
Last meeting: First meeting.
On the offensive: The main objective is keeping QB Wes Lunt upright as he returns from an injury-plagued season. RB Josh Ferguson could have a big day against a Kent State defense that gave up 214.5 rushing yards per game last season.
Getting defensive: DE Jihad Ward is listed as probable after being limited in preseason practice by an undisclosed injury. An experienced Kent State offensive line did not allow more than one sack in its last seven games last season.
The number: 9. Consecutive home openers the Illini have won.
The talk: It has been an offseason of turmoil for the Illini. Will they show resiliency and prove naysayers wrong this season?
Shannon Ryan's pick: Illinois will rise to the occasion and (at least temporarily) quell the unrest in Champaign. Illinois 31, Kent State 14.
