WATCH: Mike Epstein breaks loose for a 43-yard touchdown.

The Illini got on the board first today thanks to sophomore running back Mike Epstein. The staff has used the running back sparingly to start the year after a foot injury forced him to miss the remainder of last season.

After backfield mate Reggie Corbin found a gap for 32 yards, Esptein followed his run up with a 43-yard touchdown of his own. The score gave Illinois a 7-0 lead.