Illinois will debut transfer QB Katin Houser, who replaces three-year starter Luke Altmyer. Houser has two strong seasons at East Carolina and has impressed in spring practice. He'll operate behind a mostly new offensive line, with only guard Brandon Henderson returning. The line's cohesion will be tested early, especially against a UAB defense that may blitz to disrupt timing.

New defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck installs a 3-3-5 scheme, a significant shift from previous years. The element of surprise could help against UAB, but the unit lacks experience up front after losing most of the defensive line. Safeties Matthew Bailey and Xavier Scott return, providing stability in the secondary, but the front seven's ability to stop the run and generate pressure is unproven.

Aidan Laughery and Ca'Lil Valentine combined for 996 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season. With a new quarterback and offensive line, Illinois will likely rely heavily on the run game to control the clock and keep the defense off the field. UAB's run defense will be a key test for the Illini's ground attack.

The forecast calls for cloudy skies, 65°F, and 22 mph wind. Strong winds can hinder passing accuracy and deep throws, which may further tilt Illinois toward a run-heavy game plan. The wind could also affect kicking, making field goals and punts more challenging.

Illinois opens at home with a venue HFA of 2.6, a solid advantage. The team is motivated to start strong after back-to-back nine-win seasons and a Music City Bowl win. UAB is a non-conference opponent that Illinois should handle, but the Illini must avoid a slow start given the new personnel on both sides of the ball.

Maryland returns 71% of its 2025 production, including QB Malik Washington who set freshman school records. Against Howard, the Terps should exploit their passing game and a revamped run game behind a veteran offensive line that allowed the fifth-fewest sacks per game nationally. Expect a fast-paced, high-scoring attack.

With eight starters back and the addition of elite freshman EDGE Zion Elee, Maryland's defense is deeper and more disruptive. The front seven, featuring Freshman All-America ends Sidney Stewart and Zahir Mathis, should overwhelm Howard's offensive line, creating pressure and turnovers.

Kicker Sean O'Haire (first-team All-Big Ten, 87.5% FG) and punter Bryce McFerson (44.2-yard average) provide a significant field-position edge. In a game where Maryland is heavily favored, strong special teams can help maintain momentum and limit Howard's chances.

Playing at home with a 2.3-point HFA and clear, 57°F conditions, Maryland faces no travel or weather hindrances. This allows the Terps to execute their game plan without external distractions, ideal for building confidence early in the season.

Despite returning high production, Maryland's 2025 team was unproductive, and head coach Mike Locksley is under pressure. A dominant win over Howard is essential to set a positive tone and demonstrate progress, especially with a challenging Big Ten schedule ahead.