Illinois Game Saturday: Illinois vs. Nebraska odds, prediction, injury report, schedule, live stream, and TV channel for week 0

Nov 24, 2018; Evanston, IL, USA; A detailed view of a Illinois Fighting Illini helmet before a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 2018; Evanston, IL, USA; A detailed view of a Illinois Fighting Illini helmet before a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Illinois football team will start their season opener this weekend against the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Despite both programs having recent struggles, the Illini seem to be currently on a better trajectory. Coming off a shortened 2-6 campaign, Illinois revamped their program with Bret Bielema now leading the way. With much of the roster returning and a victory in the most recent matchup between the two teams, the Illini look to knock off the Cornhuskers once again.

A once prestigious program, Nebraska comes into the game against Illinois with four straight losing seasons, three of which are under Scott Frost. Fresh off a 3-5 campaign, Frost and the Cornhuskers are now being investigated by the NCAA for multiple infractions.

Illinois vs. Nebraska odds for week 0

Even though Nebraska has struggled and heads to Illinois’ Memorial Stadium on Saturday, the Cornhuskers are favored by seven points, according to WynnBET.

On top of Illinois starting the week at +7 (-110) for the game, the Illini are also +215 on the moneyline. So, if you want to take the seven points and bet $100, you win $90.91. If you take Illinois straight up on the moneyline, you would win $215 on a $100 bet.

The over/under line is intriguing in this matchup as well. Both team’s defenses have been underwhelming the last couple of years, so the over/under of 55.5 points (-110) is something to keep an eye on. If you place a $100 bet on either the over or under, you would win $90.91.

Illinois injury report vs. Nebraska for week 0

I believe Illinois doesn’t have too many injuries to report right now. For the first time in a long time, there has only been one drastic injury in the offseason. Offensive lineman Jordyn Slaughter is likely to miss the season with a broken ankle. That is about it for the Illini injuries.

Illinois vs. Nebraska prediction for week 0

As far as the point spread is concerned, I would take Illinois and the +7. I find it hard to believe the Illini are a touchdown worse than a struggling Nebraska team. Let’s not forget, Illinois beat Nebraska last season 41-23, and that was with an injured squad. +7 is a number I would lay some serious dough on.

The big question would be on the moneyline. Do I have confidence that Illinois can win outright over Nebraska? I honestly believe they can and will beat the Cornhuskers on Saturday. Nearly everyone is back from the Illini team in 2020 that beat Nebraska by 18 points. Look for the Illini to go back-to-back against the Cornhuskers.

The over/under of 55.5 points is a bit more difficult. Nebraska had five out of eight games go under 55.5 points last season. Illinois also had five out of eight games go under 55.5 points. The one matchup they played last season hit the 64-point mark. I think both teams are rebuilding their defenses, so I would take the over 55.5 points on Saturday.

Make your pick now here   

Illinois next game and schedule

After what will hopefully be a big conference win to start the season, the Illini then welcome in the University of Texas-San Antonio. I believe this will be the first-ever matchup between the two programs. This is a 6:30 PM CT start at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 4.

What channel is the Illinois vs. Nebraska game on this week

You can find the Illinois vs. Nebraska game on Fox at 12:00 PM CT on Saturday, August 28.

Illinois vs. Nebraska live stream

For Illini or Nebraska fans wanting to stream the game, you can check it out on FuboTV.

Next. The Writing Illini 2021 season predictions. dark