09/03/26 Hour 1: Illinois Football vs. UAB Preview | Brit Miller Joins The Drive Before Serving As Tonight's Honorary Captain

The Drive gets you ready for Illinois football's season opener against UAB! Former Illini linebacker and Rose Bowl standout Brit Miller joins the show after being named Illinois' honorary captain for Thursday night's game at Gies Memorial Stadium. Miller reflects on his Illinois career, the honor of returning to Champaign, and what it means to represent the program.

Plus, The Drive delivers a complete Illinois vs. UAB preview, breaking down the biggest storylines heading into the 2026 season opener, including new quarterback Katin Houser, the Illini defense under new coordinator Bobby Hauck, key players to watch, UAB quarterback Ryder Burton, and what Illinois must do to start the season with a win.

Illinois and UAB meet for the first time Thursday night at 8 p.m. CT on Big Ten Network.