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On Monday morning, the Big Ten Conference and Big Ten Network announced their prime time television schedule for 2016 football season and, as some expected, Illinois' contest against North Carolina on September 10 will be a night game. Kickoff has been scheduled for 6:30 pm CT at Memorial Stadium.
NIGHT GAME ALERT #Illini vs. @TarHeelFootball set for primetime on @BigTenNetwork " https://t.co/H8Yn0k9Oab pic.twitter.com/THN8prShOx
— Illini Football (@IlliniFootball) May 9, 2016
This game has the possibility of being a very competitive one with a rousing atmosphere. The Illini have undoubtedly had some momentum on their side since the hiring of Lovie Smith, and who can blame them. As for North Carolina, they lost quite a few pieces to graduation and the NFL draft, so this rematch from a year ago shouldn't be another blow out.
If Illinois is hoping to see a bowl game this season, a win over North Carolina would be a great place to start. Get your tickets now, because this game will likely sell out fast with the potential for a nice September evening and a day full of tailgating.