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Bret Bielema shares perspective on first-ever Thursday night game in Memorial Stadium history

By Cole Thompson

Published: Sep 20, 2022 · 4:59 PM EDT

For the first time in program history, Illinois football will have a Thursday night game. The Fighting Illini are set to take on Chattanooga this weekend fresh off a bye week.

There seems to be a sense of purpose and direction underneath 2nd-year coach Bret Bielema. Despite finishing the 2021 season with a 5-7 record, there’s a sense of pride internally with the program moving into Year 2.

Bielema might consider himself a purist when it comes to college football gamedays, but the 52-year-old isn’t afraid of change. He’s embracing the opportunity to have a long weekend and knock out a showdown against the Mocs early so long as it leads to a victory.

Coming off a bye week, @BretBielema discusses the preparation process for Chattanooga, and the excitement surrounding the first-ever Thursday night game in Memorial Stadium.#Illini | #HTTO | #famILLy pic.twitter.com/FmG9f5tvk9

— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) September 20, 2022

“I’m excited to see it,” said Bielema in reference to a Thursday night atmosphere. “I’m kind of a purist, I’d rather every game be on Saturday at 1 (pm), but I think that window closed about 20 years ago. I think a Thursday night game for our students in particular but also for the general fanbase… Whatever it is, I’m excited to see the crowd.”

The Illini are currently 2-1 to begin the new season. A tough loss to Indiana in Week 1 sent Bielema back to the drawing board in preparation for Virginia in Week 2. Illinois rebounded with a 24-3 victory over the Cavaliers at home.

Illinois quarterback Tommy DeVito has been serviceable under center through the first 3 games. He’s currently thrown for 622 yards and 6 touchdowns against 2 interceptions.

Kickoff from Memorial Stadium Thursday night is set for 8:30 p.m. E.T.

Cole Thompson

Cole Thompson is a freelance writer for Saturday Tradition who has covered college football and the NFL for multiple websites. Thompson is currently based in Houston, Texas, and also can be heard daily on SportsMap National Radio's 'Just Sayin It' from 3am-6am.