Ep. 1215 - J Leman previews Illini's opener vs. UAB

All-American linebacker J Leman joins Illini Inquirer's Jeremy Werner to preview Thursday's Illinois football season opener against UAB. Leman breaks down what Game One is like for players, the excitement level around Illinois football's 2026 season, what would make for a successful first game, what he expects to see from Bobby Hauck's defense and players he's higher on than the consensus.

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(0:00) - Intro

(1:30) - What Week One is like for a player

(3:30) - Excitement level for 2026 season

(5:04) - Bobby Hauck's defense debuts

(9:45) - Key for Illini linebackers in this defense

(16:00) - How Illini overcome WR injuries

(21:04) - What a success looks like for Katin Houser

(26:27) - Keys for new-look Illini offensive line

(28:20) - Players J Leman is higher on this season

(31:25) - Impact of Xavier Scott's return