3 areas of attack for the Illinois football team against Oregon

Illinois football is heading into the biggest game of this season and, arguably, the biggest game in nearly 20 years.

The Illini have put themselves in contention for numerous big-time games this season. Moving to 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Big Ten, Illinois is now ranked No. 20 in the nation. We are still in contention for a berth in the Big Ten Championship game and the College Football Playoff. That is crazy to say seven games into the season.

Oregon stands in the way, though. That is a tough task, as the Ducks are 7-0 and are ranked No. 1 in the country. On top of that, Illinois heads to Eugene to play the game on Saturday.

But Oregon does have a few weaknesses I think Illinois can take advantage of this weekend. The Ducks are a great team, but if the Illini do a few things, we can shock the world.

Here are three areas of attack for the Illinois football team against Oregon

1. Big gains through the middle of the defensive line

While there aren’t a ton of weaknesses for the Oregon Ducks, one could be on the defensive line. Illinois has some horses who can run the football, and targeting the middle of the Oregon defensive line could be key.

The Ducks have some good interior defenders, though. Derrick Harmon is one of the big boys up front, but he is a better pass rusher than a run-stopper. He is also by far the best defensive tackle Oregon will throw at Illinois.

Overall, Oregon isn’t a great rush defensive team. They give up 134.5 yards per game on the ground, which ranks No. 49 in the nation. The interior defensive line has a lot to do with that number.

Illinois has a chance to attack this Oregon weakness. Not only do the Ducks have a soft spot in the middle of the defensive line, but they tend to play a nickel defense, which is more susceptible to big run gains.

I want to see a heavy dose of the run against the Ducks. That doesn’t mean with just the running backs. Get Luke Altmyer moving too. Illinois can take advantage of this average Oregon defensive line. This will help move the ball down the field, but it will also help keep the ball out of the Oregon offense’s hands.