How do we know the first game is getting close? In Illinois' case, Ron Zook holds a dress rehearsal at Memorial Stadium.

This year's version of the annual event is 10 a.m. Saturday. Zook and his team will put on their uniforms and act as if they have a game. The coaches will test out their headsets in the press box. The different special teams will line up.

For the younger guys, it has to make them feel more comfortable about what's going to happen Sept. 5. The only thing that they can't simulate is the crowd in the stands. They'll have to wait for that, though piped in noise during practice is something Zook has used in the past.

The players and coaches will also spend part of Saturday with the fans, signing autographs and taking pictures. You can park in the Assembly Hall lots and enter on the west side of Memorial Stadium.

Enjoy. And let the games (almost) begin.

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