Illinois opens season with 42-23 victory against visiting UAB

CHAMPAIGN — Katin Houser threw three touchdown passes and ran for a score in his Illinois debut as the Illini defeated UAB 42-23 on Thursday night in a season opener. Houser, who transferred from East Carolina, completed 13 of 17 passes for 182 yards. Collin Dixon caught six passes for 70 yards and two TDs, and Ca’Lil Valentine rushed 11 times for 88 yards and a score. UAB's Ryder Burton completed 18 of 33 passes for 219 yards and a TD. He also rushed for a score. Jonah Delange kicked three…